Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.

A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.

This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.

A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.

Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.

Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.

A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.

A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.

An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.

One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.

A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.

A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.

A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.

One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.

In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.

Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".

Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.

This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.

A laugh-out-loud personal narrative about a crush. Has your heart ever beat so fast it might get a speeding ticket and a $500 fine?

This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.

A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition

A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).

Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.

Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.

This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.

Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.

A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.

A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.

A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.

A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.

A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.

In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.

A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.

In this poem, a student reflects on identity.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.

Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.

From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.

This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.

Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.

A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.

A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.

A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.

Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”

A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.