parents

Story·Michelle Doré Sizemore, age 13 — A twelve-year-old boy runs away on a snowy night, believing his departure will prevent his parents' divorce, only to be found by police and returned home to face the truth.

Story·Joshua Maclean, age 13 — A son remembers his father's devotion through baseball games, lucky charms, and math lessons, then chronicles his battle with ALS and the lasting impact of his loss.

Poetry·Mark Roberts, age 10 — A boy at boarding school writes to his father about missing their everyday rituals and recognizing the sacrifices his father makes driving long hours to work.

Story·Chris Heinrich, age 13 — A boy on his first duck hunt with his father struggles between wanting to please his dad and his inability to kill the mallard in his sights.

Story·Sarah Bryden, age 12 — A girl resents moving to a run-down house with her divorced mother until she discovers her mom crying over photos of her father, realizing they share the same grief.

Story·Anna Harrington, age 11 — A girl whose mother died when she was six moves constantly with her father until Miami promises permanence—but that promise breaks too, teaching her home is wherever loved ones are.

Story·Tran Nguyen, age 13 — An angel recounts failing to save a Cambodian mother during a flood on the Mekong River, learning that even celestial beings have limitations.

Story·Max Strebel, age 12 — A girl befriends bear cubs, discovers her taxidermist father killed their mother, and years later must choose between saving him from a bear attack or protecting the animal.

Story·Rebekah Carbajal, age 12 — A boy complaining about chores falls asleep and wakes in the past where he must work on a farm, learning to appreciate modern conveniences.

Story·Lily Beaumont, age 12 — In 1665 Madrid, thirteen-year-old Maria defies her father's arranged marriage plans and elopes with Edward, an English ambassador's son, to pursue her dream of writing novels.