Grades 4–5
Fantasy/SciFi, NarrativeWritingChristina lived in a completely natural town, and went to a completely natural school. The thing is, Christina was not a completely natural twelve-year-old girl. As a matter of fact, Christina was supernatural. No, Christina could not shoot lasers from her fingertips or read people’s minds. But yes, Christina was definitely supernatural.
Christina opened the large double doors of the library. As she stepped in, she got the wonderful feeling she always had when she entered a library. As she wandered among the countless shelves, a book caught her eye. It was thick and dark red with yellowing edges and no title. Christina took it off its shelf and walked over to an armchair. Christina opened the book.
The pages were blank, except for seven words: “You are the chosen one. Enter Imaginaria.” For a second, as Christina’s vision blurred, she thought the words had swirled and turned into a picture of a beautiful landscape. As quickly as it had started, it was over.
“Ahh, Christina. I hoped to find you here,” a voice sounded from behind her. It was Mr. Doonmore, Christina’s library teacher. In Christina’s mind, Mr. Doonmore was one word: amazing. He leaned over her chair, his bushy white beard brushing her cheek. “I see you have found the entrance,” his deep voice rumbled. Christina stared up at him with a questioning, blank face.
“I see you don’t know much. I will tell you a story to help you understand. There was once a land where all stories existed. A land where all stories, published or scribbled down, connected and formed one land. The land’s name is Imaginaria. This land is beautiful – or well, it was. There is a darkness that has started to cover it and is consuming the stories and imagination. The darkness is a sorceress named Malcorce. You must enter Imaginaria and defeat Malcorce. You are the chosen one, Christina.”
Christina should have fainted, should have screamed, or said this was nonsense like any other child would. But, Christina didn’t. She perfectly understood what she had to do. It was as if she were possessed by a feeling of extreme confidence. Christina nodded slowly, and then turned to the book and started at the first page. The page was the one with all the words on it. The letters swirled and formed a picture just like before, only this time Christina didn’t draw back. She focused even more on that tiny spinning dot. It grew bigger and bigger, and seemed to swallow Christina up. She was spinning and spinning through time and space. She closed her eyes tightly and braced herself for the worst. Her ears were buzzing and she screamed!
And suddenly it was over. Slowly she opened her eyes. Christina was no longer standing in the library, but standing in a meadow. She looked down and was holding a book tightly in her arms. It was THE book. She opened it.
On the front page, she saw a map of Imaginaria. It was beautiful, but toward the edge, a black blot of ink covered a patch of the landscape. Christina didn’t need to think to know that the black dot was Malcorce. On the next page, the words, “Good luck” glowed in neat handwriting. It was Mr. Doonmore’s handwriting. When Christina finished reading the words, they erased and were replaced with the words, “Your journey has begun.”
Just then, Christina looked up in time to see someone crashing through the air in a sidecar. Christina looked closer and it was Harry Potter being chased by – Christina thought she was seeing things, but yes, it was what she had thought she saw. It was Voldemort chasing Harry Potter. It was from the seventh book. Christina was in a story – in a Harry Potter story. She knew that soon Harry would crash into Tonk’s parents’ house. This was way too awesome. But then, Christina gasped. Harry didn’t crash into Tonk’s house. Voldemort got closer and closer. Christina looked down at her arm. It had a want in it. “Expelliarumus!!” she shouted, and Voldemort evaporated. Harry crashed into Tonks’s parents’ house, just like he was supposed to.
This was Malcorce’s doing. Malcorce was destroying stories that already existed and changing them. Christina had won this battle, but deep inside she knew there would be many more to come. Christina opened the magical book and words appeared, Congratulations, you saved Harry Potter. Star Wars is next.” Christina looked at the map. The place labeled “Harry Potter” was now flowing and without any speck of black on it. But somewhere to Harry Potter’s right, the black was starting to crawl over a square marked “Star Wars.” Christina knew what to do. She hugged the book and closed her eyes, repeating, “Star Wars, Star Wars, Star Wars” over and over in her head, with all her might. Now she was spinning, spinning again, but this time it wasn’t as dizzying as the first.
When she opened her eyes, she was holding a blue lightsaber in her hands and wearing a brown Jedi cloak. Christina definitely didn’t know nearly as much about Star Wars as she did about Harry Potter. But she knew enough to know that she was in the final duel between Luke and the Emperor in Return of the Jedi. The Emperor was doing the Force-lighting thing to Luke now, and this was the part where Darth Vader came in to save the day. But he didn’t come. Christina knew what to do. She focused with all her might on a jagged piece of metal behind the Emperor. And just like that, Christina had used the Force. The metal clanged to the ground, distracting the Emperor. Christina’s vision blurred, and then the Emperor was at it again. Only this time, everything happened like it was supposed to.
Christina opened the magic book and the words “Star Wars” were now glowing, clean of Malcorce’s black ink. On the next page were only two words, “Oz, now!” Christina new what to do.
Soon, she was in Oz, at the very moment when Dorothy was supposed to throw the bucket of water on the Wicked Witch. But, as Christina had predicted, she didn’t throw it. Christina ran to the water and flung it onto the witch. The scene went blurry, and then Dorothy dumped the water like she was supposed to.
Now on the map, Malcorce’s ink was frighteningly close to a section marked “The Hobbit.” Christina once again hugged the book to her chest, and then was standing in a stone tunnel. Someone was racing past her. Yes, it was Bilbo Baggins, about to pick up the magical ring. But he didn’t. Christina raced to the ring and dropped it in Bilbo’s pocket. The scene blurred and Bilbo picked up the ring. All was well again.
When she looked inside the book, she saw the words, “It is time for the final testing of wits. Good luck.” Christina took a deep breath, hugged the book, and wished, “Malcorce’s fortress, Malcorce’s fortress.” Before she even realized what was happening, Christina was being carried in by two creatures much like centaurs. They were black and white with red, glowing, evil eyes. Christina was dragged through a large menacing arch into what seemed like a throne room. Up above, on a raised platform, sitting on a raised black throne embedded with rubies, was Malcorce.
She had thick, tangled black hair and a black robe. In her hand was a long whip with snake teeth at the end. But none of that was anything compared to Malcorce’s face. Her eyes were glowing red embers. Her face was unnaturally white and smooth. Her lips were blood red. In a way, she was beautiful, and in a way, she was monstrous. “Guards! Leave us,” her voice echoed coldly through the hall. She stared at Christina and instantly fainted. When she looked at Christina, she saw what love truly was. And it was over then. With her love, Christina had saved Imaginaria. All over the land, people celebrated because Christina had done it.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Ana, 826DC
A student learns an important lesson about staying calm while recounting a trip to Olive Garden that spiraled out of control!
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Muawiye, 826 Boston
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that the act of inclusion begins with feeling empathy.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Alyssa, Kevin, Gustavo, Jocelyn, and Gabriel, 826LA
In science class, Victoria the Manticore makes fun of Carla the Witch for using magic, and a few bystanders step in to take a stand against bullying.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Marvin, 826CHI
A troubled young man ends up in another boy’s dreams.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Matthew, 826CHI
Originally written and recorded as a podcast, these two unlikely heroes and the technological crisis of year 3016 will have you gripping the edge of your seat!
by Noel, 826 Valencia
The creation story of a new school, reimagined to improve learning. (Paid for by Taylor Swift with free water bottles, an Italian restaurant, a movie theater, and a comfortable and safe environment.)
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Benny, 826 Boston
Inspired by Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid, this piece contains a series of journal entries and rules for a new sport by fictitious NASA operative Agent Smitty.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.
by Alongkorn, 826 New Orleans
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that unlike wasabi gummies, there is no expiration date for making amends.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
Ms. Lowe’s Fourth Grade Class at Roberto Clemente Learning Academy in Detroit, Michigan
An example of a "Neighborhood Poem" created as a class as part of 826Michigan's Rare Air/Aire Raro Young Authors' Book Project.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Abdikabir, age 8, 826 MSP
This poem uses the 1st person point-of-view to show what life looks like for a timber rattlesnake.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Kelis, 826michigan
This student describes what it would be like to become the first female president, campaigning on education for all, friendlier attitudes, more food and housing, and snow days!
by L.M., 826CHI
The story of a lonely ghost named Annabeth, a plan to kidnap children on Halloween, and an unlikely encounter that reveals the true nature of friendship.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Vanessa, 826CHI
A story about a mermaid named Luna and the epic battle to save Benzo, a rainbow-colored kingdom, using the power of love.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Natalie, 826CHI
A spirit named Janet haunts a dance studio as five young dancers arm themselves with a vacuum, a bottle, and the internet.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Levi, 826NYC
An origin story for healthy food, involving an epic battle between purveyor of high-fructose corn syrup, Ronald McDonald, and a heroic band of chefs.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Maribel O.G., Grade 4, 826 Valencia
In this story, a student gets to know a new teacher and discovers that things are not always as they seem.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Stefany Moreira, Vivi Small, Ana Rosas, Eugenia Rosas, and Jason Carrillo, 826NYC
This poem describes a warmer, tastier world run by young people.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Clara, 826 Valencia
A detailed design for a new school that students would love, complete with outdoor spaces for tennis and ice-skating!
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Yaretzi, 826LA
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn how a thoughtful surprise can brighten a friend's day.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Johny, 826 LA
A riveting interview with Godzilla, Superman, and Dragonbolt—a cast of characters that will try to outdo one another before this TV special is up.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Yanni, 826NYC
This poem is written in the style of William Carlos Williams’ “This is Just to Say” and celebrates small acts of unapologetic joy.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Brayan Luna, 826michigan
In this poem, a student vividly recounts watching The Undertaker perform a signature chokeslam on WrestleMania. Written in Spanish and English.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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