finding one's voice

Poetry·Jane Trina, age 10 — A young performer transforms stage fright into confidence, tracking the physical sensations of fear giving way to the moment when words finally 'start to fly.'

Poetry·Keslee Peterson, age 13 — A swimmer's race unfolds from nervous anticipation through the explosive start, underwater glide, flip turn, and triumphant finish in lane seven.

Story·Juliette Shang, age 10 — A young pianist reflects on why she continues despite the tedium of practice, finding meaning in performance, emotional expression, and connecting with elderly audiences.

Poetry·Daniel Fawcett, age 12 — A young person reflects on feeling different and alone despite family love, finding solace in writing and stories while navigating an uncertain world.

Story·Ted Nelson, age 11 — A young swimmer battles nerves at a championship race, wins unexpectedly, then faces the pressure of defending his position in the finals for a medal.

Poetry·James Lindbloom, age 3 — A 3-year-old's transcribed vision of becoming the sun, bringing light to darkness, making the world proud with stories that come from the sun itself.