By Tessa Gordon, age 16, California

Your pudgy hands
Covered in glitter and Elmer’s glue
Rosy cheeks, munching on a chocolate chip cookie

By Alexis Miu Ching YAU, age 12

A cool breeze flows through the nanakamado trees,
Whistling through the crooked branches.
Deep coral and golden yellow leaves,
Tumbling from the trees’ arms, preparing for winter.

By Alexis Miu Ching YAU, age 12

Fluorescent lanterns hang from the rafters of the open-air restaurant.
Beneath, people happily chat in Mandarin with their families
While passing bright red and gold Hong bao to each other.

By Kathleen Thomas, age 14, Maine

Whispers of the past
Whirl in hidden stone grooves,
In carved swirls, engraved symbols.

By Kgaogelo, age 12, South Africa

I shall put in my box
The first cry of a newborn baby
The hope that shines the stars
The spellbinding sun that sets on the horizon

By Cassandra Alvarado, age 12, California

Thoughts in my head...
Should I stay, or should I go?
Thoughts in my head…
Should I worry?