authentic voice

Poetry·Ava Persinger, age 12 — A young observer discovers the ocean's hidden music — from crashing waves to a tiny crab's clicking claws to shells clinking in the depths.

Story·Jenna Fields, age 12 — A bucking bronco narrates his life from birth to rodeo legend, revealing the fierce determination and isolation that define his existence as 'the fighter.'

Story·Hannah Ogden, age 13 — A family drives through the night to grandparents' house after eviction, their old truck barely making it as a girl reflects on loss and uncertain futures.

Story·Eva Rodrigues, age 13 — At a dreaded family cottage, a teenage astronomy enthusiast meets an eccentric boy in mismatched clothes on a rock under the blue moon, finding unexpected connection.

Poetry·Elliott McCloskey, age 13 — A young musician struggles with a trombone, from its mysterious case through spit-clogged frustration to the moment when instrument and player finally connect.

Story·Nisha Klein, age 13 — A girl arrives at summer camp hopeful but becomes the target of exclusion, watching the group turn on different girls throughout the month.

Story·Alan Tu, age 11 — A boy spends his summer earning money for a BMX bike, falling just short until his best friend arrives with the final dollar he needs.

Poetry·Rebecca Kilroy, age 11 — A girl in a hammock captures the sounds of summer — breeze, splashing, insects, lawnmower — then sprints toward an ice cream truck's tinkling music.

Story·Abigail D'Agosta and Kendra Sommers, age 13 — After her father loses his job, a girl moves from a suburban house to a rural farm, resisting the change until a friendship with neighbor Willa helps her find home...

Story·Henry Allan, age 11 — A young magician overcomes performance anxiety when his uncle appreciates his card trick despite a mistake, teaching him that perfection isn't necessary for connection.