freedom

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·Rachael Goddard Rebstein, age 12 — A boy navigates a sweltering forest, sensing danger and preparing to face a bear with his spear, until his mother's voice calling about homework breaks the spell.

Poetry·Katie Ferman, age 13 — A girl catches fireflies on a spring night, trying to contain their light in her hands before releasing them back to the darkness.

Story·Grace Watson-Martin, age 11 — A young enslaved girl and her mother escape to freedom after Rachel is sold to a slave trader, running through woods and hiding in safe houses along the Underground Railroad.

Story·William Gwaltney, age 11 — A boy secretly rides his winged horse Athena through the summer night sky, flying over ponds and listening to a concert before returning home to keep their magical secret safe.

Story·Rachel Tuteur, age 12 — Two teenagers in love remember childhood summers together while facing arranged marriages to others, meeting secretly at night despite their families' plans.

Story·Margaret Bryan, age 12 — A cross-country runner experiences the transcendent sensation of flying during a race, moving between competitive awareness and pure physical freedom.

Story·Emily Ward, age 13 — A racing greyhound named Cassie, inspired by a little girl's faith in her, wins her first race but ultimately chooses freedom over fame by escaping through a fence.

Poetry·Annie Rudisill, age 11 — A swimmer embraces the ocean's depths, feeling the sandy bottom and salty breeze, drawn repeatedly back into the water's welcoming coolness.

Story·Eddie Mansius, age 11 — A boy escapes to his backyard creek where trees arch overhead and sunlight dances through leaves, finding solace in nature's protective embrace.