UK KS2

Story·Margaret Bryan, age 11 — During a winter drive to Prince Edward Island, thirteen-year-old Elsabeth becomes captivated by the color blue and its many shades while her family shares pomegranates.

Story·Bethany Walker, age 13 — Two cousins exploring a Florida ranch forest encounter wildlife and flee in panic from an alligator sunning on a canal bank, later laughing at their overreaction.

Story·Michelle Grifka, age 12 — A self-conscious girl travels to Ireland to stay with relatives and discovers her pink-haired cousin Bridget is a talented artist dealing with her father's recent departure.

Poetry·Lauren MacGuidwin, age 12 — A night at a lake where moonlight transforms water into something magical, from skipping stones to being splashed with captured moonbeams.

Story·Niyousha Bastani, age 10 — During a sea voyage, a girl haunted by nightmares of her disapproving father seeks his forgiveness after their argument about her joining the journey.

Story·Sinnon Gonzalez, age 11 — A boy describes the wild freedom he feels on a roller coaster, contrasting his adventurous summer self with his serious school personality.

Story·Sophia Pellegrino, age 11 — Carmen wins a coveted violin solo over popular classmate Gabriella, but when she finds Gabriella crying, they discover they both wanted to be friends all along.

Story·Sophia Pellegrino, age 11 — Carmen auditions for a violin solo against the popular new girl Gabriella, wins the part, then discovers Gabriella wanted to be friends all along.

Poetry·Soujourner Salil Ahebee, age 10 — A young immigrant mourns leaving Côte d'Ivoire, listing beloved foods, peoples, places, and memories of a father who called her 'cherie.'

Story·Michael Madans, age 11 — A boy recalls his friendship with Fraser through their shared obsession with Warhead candies, from second grade competitions to Fraser's move back to Australia.