self-discovery

Story·Erin Trefny, age 11 — A middle school boy who loves dance faces relentless bullying until he decides to perform in the school talent show to show his classmates what dance truly means to him.

Poetry·Brooke Gillman, age 13 — A young writer climbs her favorite oak tree overlooking dark water, finding solitude and inspiration in the worn branches where she writes.

Story·Tatum Schutt, age 12 — A girl searching for something special in her life discovers a perfect miniature house by a stream in the woods, but must leave before exploring it.

Story·Shyla DeLand, age 13 — A girl investigates a mysterious scream and white shape in the woods, leading her to reconcile with her best friend and discover a snowy owl.

Story·Eloise Wendt, age 12 — A California girl moves to snowy Minnesota after her parents' divorce, chases a coatless winter cyclist, and discovers an unexpected friendship with someone who feels just as out of place.

Poetry·Genevieve Jacobs, age 12 — A bearded dragon observes its reflection in terrarium glass, mistaking it for another lizard until the heat lamp clicks off and the illusion vanishes.

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.'

Story·Evelyn Chen, age 12 — Bailey competes against her rival Rhonda in a state track championship, then gives Rhonda the $1000 prize money after learning her brother needs life-saving surgery.

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.