Images 2012

Images

Caty Szeto, 6th grade

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The Images Literary Magazine Staff presents to you the 2012 Publication Staff Kim Austin, Hanna Barakat, Andrew Battany, Cienna Benn, Emma Caragozian, Austin Chang, Michelle Chen, Kamaia Durairaj, Noah Finch, Coreen Grant, Hunter Harper, Kelly Hsu, Emilie Hu, Sohni Kaur, Brandon Kuwada, Cosme Legaspi, Rosa Llanto, Alyson Lo, Philip Ma, Sophia Masenga, Giacomo McCarthy, Michael Pearson, Marianna Politis, Riley Renick, Allie Rieder, Samantha Rivas, Emma Stellwagen, Tess Stewart, Matthew Van Citters, Benjamin Wedeen, Emily Wright, We here at Literary Magazine Have worked hard and have seen How wonderfully our school can write Draw, imagine, think and create We wish we had space for every one Reading them all was so much fun Each was special in its own style All were great and well worthwhile To thank you is our mission So we praise you for your contribution.

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Sponsor: Mrs. Donna Dretzka

Syntheziser: Mr. Bob Kondrath

Front Cover: Vivian Lu, 6th grade

Back Cover: Coreen Grand, 8th grade

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Courtney Gangi, 3rd grade

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Images

Mightier Than a Sword They say a pen is mightier than a sword, A little thing where thousands of words are stored.

But how is ink fiercer than the wickedest of blades?

Is a pen forever leaping to its ownerÊs aide?

Will pen be forever triumphant over sabers., Becaue it is the tool that every writer favors?

A pen is a fountain of words, pouring on paper, From tales like Robin Hood to JackÊs magic bean caper.

Sparked with a scribeÊs touch, pens create A knight in armor fitted with silver plate Slaying dragons for the lovely maiden he adores, Or a massive giant swatting down people galore.

Summoning the wrath of Greek gods, thunderbolts and all!

It can conjure dark magic of gypsyÊs crystal ball, Or send a explorer through the wildest jungles, It can even lead pirates at sea under a flag of skulls.

There is no limit to what a pen can do, As for the saying, the pen is clearly mightier.

Kami Durairaj 7th grade Colin Cruce, 2nd grade 4

Images My Unwritten Story Born and raised in the Golden State, looking up to heroes and role models hoping day she’ll be the same, hoping everybody will recognize her name.

Hoping she’ll go down in fame.

A little girl waiting for dreams to come true.

But it will come, just out of the blue.

She knows that first she must climb before she breaks through.

I am the little girl who tells a story it is mine but still needs to be written but when it is finished, there will be nothing but glory.

And nothing will be left unwritten.

Cienna Benn - 7th grade

Sohni Kaur 7th Grade

Mia Pippert, 3rd grade

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Images Moonlight Trickery

“Father, Father, what’s that noise?

That one from over there?”

“Why, son, don’t you remember?

Over there is the monster’s lair.”

And soon enough the father and son Peered into the deep, dark lake They never heard the quiet hiss Nor saw the water shake

“But Father, Father, over there’s the lake There’s nothing but deep, dark water.”

“Why, son, don’t you remember?

This is a place of murder and slaughter.”

The stick it slid beneath the surface To glide through the murky deeps And then with not a whisper of warning Out of the water the monster did leap.

“Then, Father, Father, why are we so close?

To the monster’s watery lair?”

“Why, son, don’t you remember?

We’ll get as close as we dare.”

The contorted, snakelike body Shimmered with a hundred shining scales Twisted and turned in a powerful mass Ended in a long pointy tail

“But, Father, Father, why do we dare?

Why do we dare to go over there?”

“Why, son, don’t you remember?

We have to find the monster’s lair.”

His eyes were black as the night His spikes as white as the moon His stomach growled like a panther in wait So he gobbled those two right down

“But, Father, Father, why do we have to?

Have to play such a dangerous game?”

“Why, son, don’t you remember?

We play to win much glory and fame.”

His muscled neck convulsed As he swallowed two humans whole For monsters have no manners No need for a fork, spoon or bowl

The son fell silent and watched the stars The campfire grew old and died The moonlight’s shadow came out to play And on the lake’s surface, it lied

His ivory teeth glinted As he roared his thanks to the moon And praised its natural deception That meant he could eat again soon.

From where they were sitting on the lake’s stony bank The moon played a trick For on the lake the moonlight struck And there floated a stick

Of course there is no glory In finding the monster’s lair, There is only a mythical story Designed to shiver and scare.

Harmless and peaceful The stick appeared to be; But that was the night’s devious work; That was all to see Underneath the lake’s dark ripples The monster lay in wait The trickery was the moon’s planning Its cleverly placed bait 6

The Clans, they tell this story at night Beneath the full moon’s glare To remind themselves to never to go looking For Loch Ness’ monster’s lair.

Coreen Grant 8th grade

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Scott Fordham, 7th grade 7

Images Dear Cynthia Lord, My name is Sophie Masenga and I am proud to be the twin sister and best friend of an autistic girl named Isabella Masenga, otherwise known as “Bellie” to our friends and family. My sister is unable to speak which sometimes creates a communication barrier between us, but that never breaks our close sisterly bond. My sister uses a device called an Alpha Smart to communicate with her friends and family. She inspires me every day with her eloquent writing and fascinating opinions about life and the people around her. The book Rules was on my 5th grade summer reading list and has changed my life. The memory of the book and what I have learned from it have stayed in my brain till this day. I cannot describe how much I love my sister and I would do anything for her. She means the world to me, just like Catharine’s brother does to her.

New struggles come about every day for my sister, my family and I. Life with an autistic sister can make every day seem quite complicated and confusing. You never know the full experience till you have an autistic family member. Life isn’t quite as easy as one may think, but living with a sibling with severe autism is an inspiring, enlightening, heartwarming, and amazing experience. Every day my sister and I both try to figure out the world and how it works, together and apart. Sometimes it seems I tend to wish for a more “normal” situation. Catharine’s brother faces many new changes in the book, such as learning to accept her brother and her family, learning more about herself, and learning not to be as afraid of society’s attitudes about her family and life. While reading Rules, I started to realize the many similarities that Catherine and I have in common.

Catharine and I wonder why our families aren’t like other families. I wonder why I don’t see many others with the same experiences I have. Later in the book, Catharine learns to accept her life and her brother. Like Catharine, although life can be complicated, I am glad that is the way it is. I would not change it for anything. She meets many people who change her life in the process. Like Catherine, I have made many friends that help me to truly understand autism and the way it works. They are Kenny, Maria, Natalie, Jeanette, Omar, Anais, Lula, Adenis, Tanya, and many more of these people are all a part of Team Bellie.

Your book has helped me accept my sister. I love my sister more than anything, and your book has allowed me to relate to someone with a similar life to mine. Although life with my family may be complicated, I love my life. I am extremely thankful for your wonderful book. It has helped me to know that I am not alone. What society may think is “normal” doesn’t matter, because if you love your life and the people in it, that is all that matters.

Sincerely, Sophia Masenga 8th grade

Ava Delarosa, 2nd grade 8

Images 9889 Helen The barn is a home away from home The dirt clouding up the air The dogs I pet The best friends I see Sometimes we drive to Stallion Market Eat mojos and drink Arizona Sometimes cookie dough Laughing at each other I walk and see my horse staring at me He smiles and I smile The crunch of the apple I give him And the swish of his tail, swatting at flies Everything seems perfect while I am there I feel the soft coat of his neck and it glistens in the sun.

He loves me and life is perfect.

Sammy Jedrey 8th Grade

After the Rain - Sammy Jedrey , 8th grade 9

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My Name My name is like and owl’s call, From a tree so high.

The owl spreading its wisdom Across the forest.

Up in the treetop it watches Waiting to spread its wings.

Soon it will take flight Searching the world for adventure.

Starting in the Mediterranean Flying over seas.

Then over Africa The barren deserts filled with sound.

The owl lands In New Mexico, resting.

As a new day approaches The owl spreads its wings.

Heading to California To fulfill its dreams.

Sophia Silva 7th grade

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Spotted Owl - Langdon Dearborn, 4th grade

Images Not Even Family My mother and father made a deal: my mom wanted to choose my first name, so my dad chose my middle name. Choosing my first name was easy. My mom had always wanted a little girl named Emma. She liked the name and wanted a name for me that was uncommon. After I had been named Emma, she said she I had inherited Emma Goldman’s name. Emma Goldman was a strong Jewish woman who, if a person chose to look over her faults, could be seen quite a namesake. My mother still likes the name Emma, Emma Goldman, can still be looked up to, but Emma was the most common name for girls in 2008, so I suppose the uncommon part didn’t really work out that well.

I was born in the middle of the night, so my maternal grandparents came to the hospital the next morning. They were both born in Poland, survived World War II, and still had some Old Country Values. That evening, my dad went to call my grandparents so they could come see me. He told them I was named Emma, and my grandmother remarked, in a very surprised tone, “Not even Emily?” like she was really disappointed in my name. My dad didn’t say anything, even though he was tired and stressed out. I am proud to say that after fourteen years, my grandmother now likes my name.

My dad wanted to put some family history into my middle name. He did not take a long time to decide, and eventually chose Anne. My first cousin’s middle name is Ann, my paternal grandmother is Antoinette, and my father’s grandmother was Anna. He chose to spell my name Anne rather than Ann because he liked it better. I think I do, too.

The name Emma is originally Latin and means “Universal.” The name Anne is originally Hebrew and means “Gracious.” I suppose that means my first and middle name combined mean “Universally Gracious.” This does not fit my personality at all. I am extremely shy and quiet, so universal does not fit me at all.

I hold grudges pretty well, so gracious does not fit either. However, I will try to live up to my name. I will learn to forgive and I am not nearly as shy as I was when I was little.

So I will make that my goal in life, to be one of the universally gracious.

Emma Caragozian 8th grade

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Images My Olive Tree Watching olive trees grow takes patience Knowing that your future lies in their roots takes trust Heat waves enclose you, questions expand A life threatening decision as you are evicted from your homeland.

Planting a new seed Starting again, nurturing, trusting, patience Beginning small but ending tall New roots form Traits of talent, intelligence and success.

Endurance, poverty, pain, then some power Dark skin roasted in the sun A trait that cannot be undone An endless race to the finish line Unlimited reward of triumph.

A pale white porcelain doll Yet durable in any situation The only light fish in the dark sea.

Meeting in the middle From the tanned desert dunes to the snowy royalties of Europe I meet in the middle The burning dark pigment, varied with the color of fresh white snow.

A name full of joy a grace.

Two interpretations, one name.

A dry, parched olive tree Left behind, my past, my ancestors Never forgotten My future, in a new seed A branch begins to grow Absorbing the light The stem, mixed center, trunk of my tree Growing deep roots through dark and light soil My name now, my past then.

Hanna Barakat 7th Grade

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Elly Hong, 7th grade 13

Images Softball in Reno I went to Reno for the first time Getting up there was quite a climb And when I got there, I was in shock For it was nearly twelve o’clock The lobby was a lit up With machines and dice cups Just the lobby I thought The rest of the team walked in and said, “Mar, I like this place a lot” Tomorrow was game day, we needed rest We always have to play our best We won all three, and then came back To have some snacks We went downstairs, to laser tag We played so much that we needed a bag To hold the tickets we had won We all walked with a yawn We said goodnight The fun we had was quite a delight When we separated off on to our own floors We knocked on our doors But what I thought about all night Was that I get to play softball.

What a delight!!

Marianna Politis 8th grade

I Remember I remember the distant clouds, away from the Golden Coast.

I remember the stormy seas Tasmania.

I remember seeing the smiling face of the sun shining brightly.

I remember the dark, drenched concrete in the sky.

I remember a cave as large as an elephant towering over me.

I remember the killing blow of a hand, destroying a free spirit.

I remember the misty mountains of the old country.

I remember shivering, black nights of Birmingham.

I remember the bright colors of white flashes of strobe lights.

I remember the end of time flowing in the dead, cold mountains of the Himalayas.

Sahil Nandwani 8th Grade

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Images Once upon a Time I remember the first animal I saw while exiting the plane into Santa Cruz or the Galapagos. The first animal I saw was a Frigate Bird. It was bloated and red, displaying itself for a mate.

I remember as I jumped into the water and saw fish kissing, sea lions dancing, and sharks murdering, in the Galapagos.

I remember catching my first fish. It was unforgettable; suddenly, the pole started to bend and I felt like my arm was going to detach itself from my body. But, I innately knew that such a feeling was natural with a fish weighing two pounds.

I remember hitting a hole-in-one for the first time. Let me let you in on a little secret: a hole-in-one is no small feat.

So when my ball was heading right towards the hole, my adrenaline starting pumping. I started hoping, and then finally, the ball disappeared into an abyss that it calls home.

I remember my Grandpa Norm like he was with me just yesterday. But unfortunately his fun-loving, language pondering, and playful self was not with me yesterday. He died in 2004, and that was one of the saddest days of my life.

Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

I remember always asking Grandpa Norm what a snake meant in Spanish. I probably asked him that question 200,000 times. Every single time he answered with, “it means serpiente.” He always gave me the same answer until one day he said, “I can’t remember, I just can’t remember anymore, big guy.” And suddenly, I knew that his time had come. He died the next week.

I remember my big loss in 2006. My beloved dog Champagne had to be put to sleep. It was the day I was supposed to go to the Long Beach Aquarium with my class. But, my parents were telling me that morning to say my goodbye to Champagne as sincerely as I could because they knew that it would be my last goodbye. As I got home I asked where my dog was and they said, “she is in a better place right now,” and I started to cry.

I remember the day that I caught my first lizard, the one that started it all. I was sleeping over at my Grandma’s house in Orange County when I saw a lizard basking in the sun. I asked if I could go touch it, and my grandfather said, “Well, you can try, they are kind of fast.” I chased it for probably ten minutes before I caught it and brought it home. This particular lizard felt very soft and had very stretchy skin; this was my first lizard I ever caught and I named him Leonard.

I remember the day that I saw and ate my first chocolate mountain. It was honestly one of the best sights/tastes that I have ever encountered.

I remember my trip to Costa Rica. It was with none other than with Ms. Chrysler, Mr. Adams, and Mrs. Dretzka. It was one of the most unforgettable trips that I have ever been on.

Jonah Sacks 8th grade Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

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Nine Letters I am more than just nine letters, I am better than just four syllables.

I care about the world and I dare to think it can change.

It is what Alejandro is all about.

My name is of Greek origin Though it carries a more Spanish flavor.

It means “defender of man kind�

It means I am a fighter.

It means to have high physical courage And deep imagination.

Former presidents have used my name, Even the inventor of telephones and penicillin.

It has a noble history and a lore I hope to live up to.

It is a name that will enable me to find my path Whether as a leader or a believer in causes that matter.

My journey is long before my name is fulfilled But for now I am just nine letters and four syllables.

Alejandro Salinas 7th grade

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Rohan Prashant, 7th grade

Images Julia My name is Julia. My parents gave me my name because they could not name me anything else. My mom wanted to name me after a relative, but she could not name me after someone without someone else getting jealous. They thought about naming me Emma after my dad’s grandma with whom he was very close, but my mother did not like the name. They thought about naming me Elena after my grandma, but then my other grandma, Gloria got upset. After a big family dilemma, my parents decided not to name me after a relative.

Julia comes from the Roman Empire. It is the feminine version of Julius. The name Julia was given to every female royal in the Julius family in ancient Rome. Julia means youthful in Latin. I do not think this name suits me very well. Julia is a very simple and common name, and I am artistic, sarcastic, jubilant, not simple.

Julia is the beeping alarm that wakes me up in the morning. If I could re-name myself, my name would be something like Alessandra. Alessandra is the tentative stroke of the paintbrush as it defines its creation.

Names can tell us many things about people. If you are named after someone in your family, your name can be a window to your heritage. Name giving varies throughout different cultures.

In China it is forbidden to name your child after a relative.

Indians incorporate their culture, religion, cast, and horoscopes into their name giving practices. However, in modern culture, most parents choose a name they like.

Julia Rocha 8th Grade

Mia Pippert, 3rd grade 17

Images Chris Brown A huge star that started small But grew into a big success Twinkling the brightest Among all others in the sky.

Caught my eye shooting by Felt like he was traveling And I just had to go there.

For he is my inspiration I will follow him, As he followed MJ. I favor the smile upon his face But I love everything that he is, There’s nothing to replace Now I look upon his image To follow his intent His ego may be big, But his heart is even larger As beautiful as he is outside, There is more beauty inside.

He is a medusa, You lose yourself in his songs Look him in the eyes and he’ll turn you into stone Watch him do his dance and you can’t leave him alone.

His songs are a bomb They have a certain kick Powerful and great Like they are atomic.

They have me captivated Like I can’t move.

Cold ice But still dance smooth.

Chris, you’re a medusa I don’t ever wanna lose ya’.

He’s the type of boy that’ll turn you into stone Look him in the eyes and you can’t leave him alone.

Kim Austin 7th Grade

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Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

Images Rice Krispies A cold, rainy, Saturday morning at my house meant one thing, Warm Rice Krispies.

My favorites way to spend a rainy day.

When it was my turn to stir, My head barley reached the top of the gigantic vat.

As I grabbed the spoon, My head filled with a symphony of sounds and smells.

Rice Kripspies crackling, butter bubbling, marshmallows melting.

I couldn’t resist the sweet, salty aroma Slowly, it took over my body, I could almost taste the yummy treat

Gooey, soft,

Crunchy, smoooooooth Slowly

Melting away in my mouth As a smile warms me on this rainy day Ravi Durairaj 7th grade

Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

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Images Gilette Stadium My father and I crawled in our rental car slowly up Route 1 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Our styrofoam cups from Dunkin Donuts, full of coffee and hot chocolate, bought in Providence, Rhode Island, were empty, as was the bag of donuts that went along with the drinks. Behind us and in front of us, stretching for miles, as far as the eye could see was an endless line of cars, trucks, and SUVs, all heading to the same place. It was a crisp, sunny New England fall day. The sky was an incredibly bright blue, and the clouds that drifted across were fluffier and whiter than the purest snow.

The air, although not cold, had a chill that warned of the coming winter. I was wearing a Patriots’ jersey, a deep navy blue, bearing number 75, Vince Wilfork, the Patriots’ starting nose tackle and my favorite player. My father, who wouldn’t be caught dead in a sports jersey, surprised me by wearing a #83 Wes Welker jersey.

We crested a hill and suddenly saw our destination, Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots, my favorite sports team. We found parking about two miles away from the stadium, paying an outrageous price. We were surrounded by hundreds of Patriots fans, eating, drinking, playing catch, and boiling lobster. The smell of the meat that filled the lot was delicious as it was rising from countless BBQ grills. We set out on the long trek to the stadium along with thousands of other fans, all with different Patriots’ jerseys. As we entered the stadium, there were many different sights and smells: hot dogs, fried clams, burgers, fries, and bratwursts, how amazing!

We had seats on about the 50 yard line, 24 rows up. Near us was a cluster of Ravens fans. We took a picture for them and they took a picture for us. As more and more people arrived, the more exciting things got. When the announcer introduced Tom Brady, the crowd went wild. The first quarter began as the conference rivals Patriots and Ravens clashed. We bought hot chocolate that must have been 400 degrees. In the first quarter, a Patriot player who had been traded in 2006 came back to the Patriots and caught a touchdown. He received a standing ovation from the crowd. At halftime, the score 7-7 tied. At halftime, we decided we were hungry so we went and bought sizzling, juicy, crispy hot fried clam strips. Early in the 3rd quarter we were enjoying our fried clams when we heard a loud SMACK! A Patriots player, Brandon Merriweather put a huge helmet to helmet hit on Todd Heap. The crowd roared until they saw a yellow flag on the field, indicating a penalty. The boos were so loud that you could feel the vibrations in your chest. Todd Heap was helped off of the field and play continued.

The Patriots scored and the crowd went wild. The Ravens scored and the boos rocked the stadium. With three minutes left in the game and the Patriots down by a touchdown, the entire crowd stood up in anxiety. Every play made me nervous. Down the field, Brady took the team. They tying touchdown was good. The entire stadium erupted in cheers.

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Images Gilette Stadium (cont.)

Overtime, the Ravens got the ball first. Uh-oh! I felt that the Patriots were doomed. A huge stop by the Patriots! YES! The two teams went back and forth until Brady started a clutch overtime drive. Down the field they went, with every fan in the stadium standing up. Brady and the Patriots marched 70 yards down the field to set up the game winning field goal. Stephen Gostkowski set up the ball. The kick was up. We could feel the air being sucked out of the stadium. All of the fans held their breath. It was up and the kick was GOOD! Patriots won! 24-21! The crowd went ballistic.

As we left, it felt like the entire crowd just floated out of the stadium. As we were getting in our car, we smelled an acrid smell, and noticed something weird burning in a barbecue. We looked closer and saw that it was really an Ed Reed (Ravens star safety) jersey, charred to a point that it was barely recognizable. I will never forget that day for the rest of my life.

Christian Ryan 8th Grade

Grandfather Waiting for dinner Made by my grandfather Over the fire Sparkling sounds.

Smoke still in the air Lingering over the wide sky.

The smell of the barbecue Running laps in my nose.

Eating long awaited meat The taste will never leave As never will he.

Is that the only time?

The only eternal time.

He stands up, he protects, He respects, he honors.

Invisibly, he is still making barbeque for me.

Phillip Ma 8th grade

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Images The First Shadow, The Last Star The sun goes down, And the First Shadow Sweeps across the world.

Everything is black, Waiting for a light to show Where to go, where to wait.

As midnight draws nearer, The First Shadow spreads Across fields and forests.

Lights in houses dim While dogs and cats go quiet.

Everything is silent.

A small light appears, Then is joined by others.

The shadow hides.

The lights disappear.

Only the Last Star remains, Shining so brightly, Sending the First Shadow away.

The last star fades, And the First Shadow flies.

The Sun has come up To claim the world.

Madeleine Pearce 5th grade

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Julia Nowak, 7th grade

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Camp Grounds The fresh dew of the morning Dripping from every earth bound pine The bits of bark under my stride Comforting even as it strikes dull pain.

The little drops of sap on the stumps Looking like a taste of a sweet treat.

The relentless chirp of the birds in their nests Excited for another day of flight And filled with the scent of vanilla pines With an aroma of calmness and tranquility.

Dean Johnson 7th Grade

Julia Nowak, 7th grade 23

Images The Firefly Song Secretive like me.

A light in the dark.

Small, yet noticeable, Sending out a spark.

An individual, Intelligent, smart, Stands independently, Alone in my heart I am a firefly Spreading my winged arms, Softly floating by.

A tiny, sparkling charm Tall but shy.

Creative and strong.

Lighting up the sky: The firefly song.

Hanna Barakat, 7th grade

Lilly Maxfield 7th Grade

Fireflies Fireflies make a cheerful light, In the sky at night.

Through the window you can see Them flying around like magic bees.

You‛re very interested; yod do not sleep For they bring you happiness, astonishment and glee.

You may fee like you‛re in a dream, But they‛re really there to glow and gleam.

Daisy Wan 4th grade Ava Alms, 2nd grade

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Images Poem Cycle Dawn

Sunset

Early morning mist tickles my nose Soft, damp soil under my toes Green fronds of fern spring up towards the sky Where clouds like marshmallows slowly drift by Sun rises into the growing light Staining the sky with a blood-red sight Moss soaks up all the warmth of the sun The day is starting and the night is done A fresh, damp scent hangs in the mist The air is still; no noise, no wind

Silver clouds dot the sky Drifting away to say goodbye A golden sun sinks away to sleep Staining the sky with blood-red streaks Trees absorb the last of the light Silhouetted against the bubblegum-pink sky As the last of the daylight fades away The world prepares for the end of the day

Morning

A distant chirping of bluebirds dies away Cold replaces the heat of day Wind sweeps through the silent trees Rattling the branches and golden leaves Darkness creeps like a spider into the sky My heart feels black like the darkest of nights I breathe in the dank, depressing air A glum, chilly breeze ruffles my hair The secrets of dusk are slowly unwrapped In the rustle of leaves and the drip of sap In the cry of a hawk and the piercing cold Are all the secrets that dusk enfolds

Bluebirds begin their chorus of songs Happy to see light after the night, dark and long Their music rouses the snoozing roses Whose wondrous sweet scents fill every one’s noses Some squirrels are attracted by the flowers’ fresh smell And jump from their homes to hear music so well Their scrabbling awakens a crotchety mouse Who grumpily shuffles from his hole of a house When the cat sees the mouse, he quickly gives chase But the sweet scents and music make him calm and tame Next come the bee and his ladybug wife As slowly the rest of the world comes to life Noon The golden sun at its peak Baking my back and burning my cheeks The sky is showing off its most brilliant blue Vivid and bright, yet a soft, calming hue Fluffy white clouds make snow seem gray As morning quickly tucks itself away Light filters through the canopy of trees Dappling the floor of golden leaves The birds are off chorus duty for lunch They impale the soft soil, in search for a nice worm to munch The forest is alive in every way For noon is the busiest time of day

Dusk

Midnight The moon glows silver in a jet-black night And owls perched on branches prepare to take flight Blazing stars like gleaming eyes Scatter into the darkening sky As the moon peers down from its perch in the sky It baths the earth with its dazzling light Each blade of grass lined with silver and gold Quivering in the freezing cold A chilly breeze sends shivers down my spine My heart misses a beat as cold grips my mind Smoky gray clouds block the moon’s light Leaving only darkness to watch over the night Shaya Naimi 5th grade

Julia Nowak, 7th grade

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Images I Remember I remember the moment Mum told me; She had done it, got the job, I remember the moment of utter astonishment; Follow by a wave of raw excitement, I remember looking at a picture of Los Angeles, And wondering how I got so lucky.

I remember the following week, And the doubt and worry that tamed the excitement Like a dark, roiling raincloud does to the blazing sun, I was leaving my whole world I had built up around me, From memories and family and friends And starting from scratch.

I remember only foggily My last day of school, I remember mostly a fast blur of faces And words of farewell and good luck, But I remember the teary-eyed expressions Of my best friends clearest.

I remember the taxi drive to the airport And knowing I wouldn’t see any of it for another year, I remember the house, the fields, the tower, the hills…

Everything familiar, I remember savoring every detail Though they are fading now.

Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

I remember the low moaning crescendo and dull throb of the plane taking off Like a monster awakening from the deep after hibernation, I remember the land shrinking beneath me Until I could blot it out with the tip of my pinky, I remember holding a map of my childhood in my hands…

And then the clouds obscured it all in a swathe of white.

I remember the endless flight from London to L.A. And the good food I didn’t have much appetite for, I remember such great, great excitement I had embarked on the journey!

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Images I Remember (Cont.)

I remember tempered only by a sharp, thorn-like grief And a strange, tugging sense of loss.

I remember stepping off the plane Into a solid wall of heat, I remember the change from lush, verdant grass, To dusty, baked soil, I remember the sky unbroken by clouds A piercing tone of azure like the Caribbean Sea. I remember the buildings All low-slung and white, I remember the annoying hum of constant air conditioning Following me where ever I went, I remember standing out in the crowd Like blue ice against golden toasted waffles.

I remember my first day at Chandler As if it were yesterday, I remember the repeated question; “Have you seen the Loch Ness monster?”

Over and over again I remember wondering about the girl’s uniform But being too shy to comment.

I remember settling in an apartment in Paseo While the house rent was finalized, I remember the dizzying sense of fantasy; This couldn’t really be happening.

I remember the red spots on my arms from where I pinched myself Trying to wake up from the dream I thought I was having.

I remember finally moving into the house And unpacking out all my familiar possessions, I remember missing all my friends and family And the doubt of feeling like a novelty that would wear off, But I also remember thinking that maybe Once I got use to it, I might be able to call this place home, too.

Coreen Grant 8th Grade 27

Images What Am I? A poem in honor of Cesar Chavez School is harsh, for I am not understood I am as confusing as space I am time An incomprehensible mess of stereotype and speculation So I mean nothing Painted with an invisible mark That screams, “Stay away!”

Or worse Because then it’s not only me I am hated for what I am: Mexican.

Somebody who will work Like my family All day, gritty sweat pouring over my forehead Toiling for them, the whites In the sweltering sun Burning my nose, my eyes, my face Every time I hear the hoe whack the ground It becomes the practiced yell of a plantation owner And the crack of a stiff whip Dust swirling up, clogging my pores Drying my eyes And to wet them I cry I cry for my people We are not accepted in America But no longer are the people of Mexico Am I a dirty Mexican?

A soiled rag?

Do I no longer belong?

A member of no community No country Nobody on my side Alone.

Jake McCarthy 8th grade

28

Images

Ivan Penichet-Khaw, 2nd grade

Sam O’Hagan, 7th grade

29

Images Gazelle Gazelle Wild, Tawny, Free Prances So Swiftly, So Softly, Today.

Courtney Gangi 3rd Grade

Hanna Barakat, 7th grade Outcast Pack Ah! I know of the wolf, on the world’s far rim, Whose crying seems to console him.

Indeed, I hear his saddened wail, When all hopes of friendship seem to fail.

Yes, I know of the wolf, who howls on the most lonesome night.

Though his sharp fangs and claws do not cause me fright.

“Oh Wolf!” I call, “Do not howl with such sorrow!”

“For after today, there’s always tomorrow!”

I was once like you, bitter and lost, Not even revenging to melt my frost.

But all wounds heal, and scars don’t always last.

Indeed, some burns do heal quite fast.

And there are worse fates than being an outcast.

Do not howl, Wolf, you’ve got it all wrong.

Do stop crying, you must stay strong.

For maybe, one day you’ll find one more outcast, And we outsiders will form our own pack.

Elly Hong 7th Grade 30

Images History

This is War

An ancient battleground lie here The clouds of war have long passed by And all that they have left behind Is a silent, apathetic sky.

The essence of warfare, Old men talking, While young men die.

They raised the Roman Empire here Each stone piled atop bloody stone Crushing all beneath its iron might Rising up to make the world its own.

Napoleon was defeated here A man who wished to conquer all To be crowned supreme Emperor This lonely field saw him fall.

Lincoln, too, was murdered here As he struggled towards equality The end of prejudice - bitter spite A dawn that he would never see.

We once fought here - but not for land Not money, power, hate or greed Our battle then was against time We struggled for our world’s needs.

We fought to change the wrongs we’ve done For truth and honor - good and right We fought against our countless woes We tried to keep our dreams alight.

But all our battles have passed on Countless suns have sailed into the sea Only memories remain to join The endless sands of history.

This is war.

Actions taken, Against a nation, No proof of wrongdoing.

This is war.

The moment to lie, The moment to fight, The moment to die.

This is war.

Warnings given, The liars’ rise, While the honest fall.

This is war.

The blood of the martyrs, Who fight for a lie, Showers the gray plains of death.

This is war.

Kathryn Berzas 7th Grade

Matilda Berke 7th grade

31

Images I Remember I remember when I saw the moss-covered green walls I remember the ferns that stole the sunlight and made themselves beautiful When I smelled the new earth fertilized by the water that ran through the canyon I remember the smell of life, of untouched nature And I remember when I heard the sound of water upon stones I remember the birds chirping in their nests I remember I felt the soft mud that squished between my toes as I walked barefoot down the canyon I remember as I felt the lacy ferns that lined the walls and that carpeted the world I remember I tasted the fresh ocean air That pervaded the canyon Lonely Raindrops And I remember the peacefulness of nature Ian Hamilton 8th Grade

Falling softly through the sky Silver in the blurry light Sparkling on the asphalt There are no stars tonight Out in this big world Tears falling through ominous clouds Individual stars plummeting to the ground All alone on the empty street Puddles forming in the dark Glistening, gleaming in the chill air A smattering of raindrops on the roof Sliding noisily down the pipes Running into the gutter Down into the storm drain, black as pitch Mind- bending droplets splashing the window Running down over the sill Falling to their death below.

Julia Nowak 7th grade

32

Patrick Egan 7th grade

Images What I Love Most I love Hula, cultural and fun, exciting and entertaining.

Is anything more entertaining than Hula?

I love Pillow Pets, fluffy and soft, cuddly and colorful.

Is anything more loveable that Pillow Pets?

I love turtles, cute and slimy, suicidal and green.

Is anything more adorable than a turtle?

Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

Paloma Ryan 5th Grade

Mia Pippert, 3rd grade 33

Images What Do I Love Most?

I love travel, Fun, and adventurous, Exciting and interesting.

Is anything More educational than travel?

I love dance, Athletic and upbeat, Fun and sweaty.

Is anything More invigorating than dance?

I love llamas, silly and awkward, different and unique.

Is anything Stranger than llamas?

Name of My Life Dreaming of a girl who goes on adventures With her grandparents, A free girl.

Never knowing what will happen next.

Living her life to the fullest, Making the best of everything.

Taking care of her family and home, Reassuring everyone in times of grief, Respecting those who surround her No one can take these characteristics away, My name is Charlotte Charlotte Strasburg 7th grade

Emilie Alvarez 5th grade

The Microphone The stony, soundless safe that holds The keys to everlasting fame The world seems distant, far away Yet dreamed-up crowds still cheer your name.

It waits for you expectantly you wonder if there’s something there Beneath its shining metal maw The silver eye, unblinking stare.

It’s time to start – you feel the rush Draw in a final, gasping breath It starts up almost mockingly A silent dare to challenge death.

A hush then falls across the stage As you are left alone to wait For your emotions to take flight And fly you through the jaws of fate.

Matilda Berke 7th grade 34

Images

Caitlin Wu, 4th grade 35

Images The Huntress Soaring on widespread wings, Tawny feathers spinning from the sky, A majestic huntress, Loops above.

She blinks, A movement catching her amber eye, Spiraling down, The ruler of the cloud closes in.

Talons sharp, Dig into the ground, A mere moment too late, For the flash of brown scurrying away.

A fearsome shriek, Of anger and frustration, Rings through the sky, As the hawk circles the sun once more.

Kathryn Berzas 7th grade

36

Rowena Harvey, 4th grade

Images The Fair Everyone, everywhere Let’s all go to the fair!

Grab a chair grab your bear It’s going to be adventure.

Now this is an extreme ride That no one’s ever ridden on Don’t take a double dare It’s very risky if you dare Make sure to say a prayer And always be aware Of the obstacles and stairs in this scary Adventure Now you are entering.

Climb onto the velvet seat.

Fasten your seatbelt And get ready for the heat!

“Thanks for riding,” The captain says.

You nod and turn away, without losing a leg!

“How was it?” they ask “It was just a silly ride.”

But you know inside that you are filled with pride And you had the most extreme time.

Caitlin Wu 4th grade

Katelyn Hsu, 3rd grade

Katelyn Hsu, 3rd grade 37

Images

Origin of Michelle!

How is one’s name given? What significance is given to that name? In my case, my name was given to me because of my brother. My brother, Michael, was such a delight for my parents as a baby that they wanted to name me “Michael” as well, but the feminine version. My name comes from French, meaning “Who is like God.” My name means intelligent like my brother, perfectionist like my father, and organized like my mother.

It means all around, scattered everywhere from athletics to academics.

My name is swift like a tiger, picky like a koala, and clever like a fox.

Michelle means efficient and orderly, loveable and fun. My name is the youngest on my mom’s side, filled with hopes and dreams. My name wants control in groups and overachievements.

My name has a lot of different meanings to people. Mine has always meant my own personality. Given the choice, I would never want to change my name. After, 13 (almost 14) years with my name, I realize how much I have sculpted it to make it to my liking. If I had to change my name, though, I would change it to Michaela because it is, not only the opposite of Michael as well (in Hebrew), but it would also keep with the names beginning with “M” pattern that my parents wanted to continue. No matter what my name is or would have been, I would still be sporadic and serious.

One’s name tells people about who they are and what their personality is.

Some names are harsh and sharp, while others are soft like the wind and smooth like a stone. Names can be textured from experiences like the sand on the beach. My name has always been smooth and soft, sounding like it was delivered from the ocean itself. However, most important of all my name comes from the roots of my family, from my parents to my grandparents, making it most special of them all Michelle Chen 8th grade 38

Images I Remember. . .

I remember running through a shrub I called “Mi Cuevita” or “My little Cave” that grew off the side of the fence of my old house. The branches scraped me all over, but I didn’t care. I came out reeking of pine needles.

I remember getting off of the concrete and looking down at my arm. It looked like a branch violently torn from the tree. I screamed and roller-skated home crying trying not to fall and hurt myself again. I was so scared, but all I could think of was the hospital bill that this would inflict.

I remember sitting in the front seat of the moving van with my dad singing songs about the alphabet that I had learned in my kindergarten class. Going home with my entire family for the first time.

I remember laying in my bed and hearing a strange noise., I stood on the stairs silently and I saw my mom sobbing. She was on the phone sitting on the floor. Her best friend had just died. I went back to sleep completely confused, I didnít know what death was.

I remember getting the mail on March 10, 2012 to open letters that would determine the next 4 years of my life. My fingers trembled like the trees during a storm.

I remember sitting in front of the dark ocean. I felt as though I was in a snow globe and if someone shook it the stars and all the little lights I could see in the distant city would swirl around in the night sky.

I remember singing and dancing around Sophieí’ pool. Our excitement for the summer ahead a glowing candle, bright but surely dimming until it left us in the unpredictable dark of September.

I remember being at the lake with my friend. I was swimming in the icy water when the strong hands of the current pulled me under. It dragged me towards the waterfall, and I was sure I would die. I scrambled to try to find something to prevent my lethal fate. I screamed and someone pulled me out before I fell.

I remember coming to brightly painted school building, not speaking the language everyone else did. I cried for hours not understanding why I was here.

I remember going to the Eagle Rock Music Festival. The music playing was intoxicating and you could feel the beat through your body. The smell of food danced around the street as I drank expensive coffee with all my friends.

Julia Rocha 8th grade 39

Images My Most Prized Possession How can something so small and spiny be so sweet and loving? Last year in Mr. Jourdane’s class we all agreed to get a class pet. William Pai and I asked Mr. Jourdane if we could have a bearded dragon in the classroom. He agreed and told us we would have to share in the care and cleaning of the dragon. William’s mom agreed to take us shopping to find the perfect dragon. Both William and I are reptile lovers and know a lot about bearded dragons. I had owned a great dragon named Xavier. Xavier and I were very close. Believe it or not, a dragon is a great pet to have. Dragons love to be held and fed by hand. They make eye contact with you and are very social. Unfortunately, Xavier had bad kidneys and passed away. I was very sad and still miss him. Bearded dragons look like they sound. They are spiny and have beards that they puff out when they feel threatened. When she is happy, her color is a golden orange; when she is tired, she is brownish-grey. Rocket was the name of the class dragon.

After Xavier died, Rocket became my focus. Mr. Jourdane allowed us to keep her at school during the week, and on the weekends we took turns taking her home with us. It was hard to get volunteers to take her. One weekend Jake took her, and his Mom was not happy. Yash took Rocket a few times and always would bring in food for her. William took her, as well, but was busy moving his home.

Little by little the weekends became my responsibility to take home Rocket. I did not mind because I have all the equipment needed. Their habitats are very specific: cool areas and also hot and dry to feel like the deserts of Australia.

Rocket missed the kids a lot. She loves to be held; she used to be held in every class by the students. I can tell that she misses everyone, but I try to spend time with her. She is not afraid of my cat or dog. She loves strawberries and warm baths.

My mom wants to have her go back to school and stay during the week and come home on the weekends. We will see. I love having her in my room. Over the summer, I entered her into a beauty contest at Pet Co and she won first prize. She is very cute. I am very attached to her and she to me. When I am reading, she lies on my chest and does not move. Rocket is my spiny prized possession.

Jonah Sacks 8th grade

40

Images Saraka Me Chalana Bohuth dhoop he Aur Bohuth dhool he Gaye chaalrehe Bakri avaj banarehe Loago avaj bajarehe Loago tabla or basoori bajarehe Au bache hkelrehe Loago khana bhejerehe loage bajoo me kharehe Gaardi dhool macharehe Our me khasthahoo Pur me bus chalrahu Jub tak ghar Nani ke phochathehoo Mera ghar

Walking on the Road It is very hot And there is a lot of dust The cows are walking Dog are barking Goats are bleating People are talking People are playing the tabla and flute And children are running and frolicking Vendors sell food; people eating by their carts Cars are kicking up the dust Causing me to cough I just keep walking Until I reach Grandmother’s Home, my home Yashavardhan Sharma 8th grade

Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

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Images Heat Dear Mr. Lupica, My name is Cameron and I am wring to tell you about my exhilarating experience with your book, Heat. Your moving story about a kid pitcher, who escaped from Cuba, is phenomenal. You give a point of view that no sports writer usually thinks about.

Your story about two brothers, without their father, struggling to survive on their own in America, moved me. Michael Arroyo is an amazing pitcher who wants just to play baseball. He throws with, well, heat! Unfortunately, he is also feeling the heat in his difficult life. He dreams of playing baseball in the Little League World Series. I can relate to this dream because I play baseball night and day, and I am also a pitcher, though I do not throw quite as hard. My most memorable game was when I pitched a gem and won the league championship. My team and I were so excited because we were the underdogs and many people counted us out of the game.

I was introduced to this book my school librarian, who thought it would be perfect for me. I am not a big reader, just to let you know, so I was hesitant at first, but I decided to give it a try. That night before bedtime, I decided to read some, then some more, and more, until my parents tried to pry the book out of my hands. This is when I knew that I just loved this book.

Even though I do not directly relate to the Arroyo brothers’ experience, I am sure that their story inspired many readers like myself. Kids and families escaping from Cuba, looking for a better life, teaches me not to take my homeland and family for granted, and that I should be grateful for them. It is delightful to read that his best friends, the catcher named Manny Cabrera, is willing to support him regardless of his background and troubles. It shows that there are people in this country who are compassionate about those who are less fortunate. I am part of the AYSO soccer league VIP program where I get to play soccer and help kids with physical and mental disabilities.

I now have a few questions: what motivated you to become a sports writer? I may be interested in becoming a sports writer myself, as I am a big sports fanatic.

Usually sports writers stick to reporting on one sport, so it is great that you cover just about all of them. Also, what was the response of the public after you wrote this story?

To cap it all off, I would just like to thank you for your brilliant and moving story, for showing me a different perspective of life where people strive to overcome adversity.

With best regards, Cameron Wheeler, 8th grade 42

Images blissful forgetting i fell to the floor warm springy black

daniel too smiling still spinning, then falling on me and Anne

laughing quietly blissfully peacefully

a day in the Scottish summer pleasantly warm long-lighted hours fresh green grass

the ground spun confusingly nauseatingly headache-ingly. . . but I didn’t care

frolicking with friends on the trampoline blissfully no worries

the sun above oddly bright free of clouds free of rain

free of worries but the tug of the revolving world the dizziness of spinning that helps take my mind Off the knowledge of leaving For another year. . . . . .keep spinning distract myself for another day yet.

anne beside rosy-cheeked laughing sharing Coreen Grant 8th Grade

Taysha Kim, 3rd grade 43

Images Tolerance One of the reasons intolerance continues to exist is because it is a product of different conflicts and problems of society as whole. For example, lower class African-Americans are intolerant of lower class Latinos because the African-Americans are worried that the Latinos will be able to take their spot on soci-economic ladder. This shows itself as racial intolerance between African-Americans and Latinos. There are also many moral and culture conflicts in society where people’s views are based on what religion they are. If one’s views towards contraception, same-sex marriage, or abortion are based on one’s religion, it is very difficult to compromise or see another viewpoint. As a result, we have prejudice against gays, bombing of abortion clinics, and dispute over whether heath insurance should pay for birth control. Intolerance can also stem from when small groups of certain ethnic or religious backgrounds engage in extreme conduct. A single Muslim terrorist can cause millions of people to be prejudiced against peaceful Muslims. A radical Mormon with multiple wives can make one view Mormonism as a cult. As long as these conditions exist, some intolerance is inevitable.

There are no means by which one person could stop intolerance, because we will always have economic competition, religious differences, and extreme viewpoints. However, one can promote tolerance in one’s families, schools, churches, or communities. One can make a point of being more inclusive of people with different social, religious, or economic standpoints. We can educate ourselves and learn more about different cultures or religions.

Christian Ryan 8th grade

44

Caitlin Wu, 4th grade

Images Witness Peace comes in many different ways. War does, too.

In the summer of 2010, my family and I went to Jordan, Egypt, and Israel for our family vacation. My mom has a ton of family in Israel, including a family who has twins my age. They used to live in the United States, so I grew up knowing the twins. Tamar, one of the twins, and I occasionally email each other.

Once we went rafting with my cousins, the Kleiners, down the Jordan River. It’s in northern Israel, and in the middle of nowhere. We got our rafts and started going down the river. We didn’t have to do much paddling because the current swept us down the river. It was so hot that day, close to 100˚F. We stopped every now and then to dunk ourselves in the river to cool off. We saw so many different types of people in the river. There were a few people like us in regular bathing suits and shorts. There were Arab women going down the river in head scarves. Religious Jewish men went down in button-down long sleeve shirts with prayer shawls hanging out from under their life jackets with their wives and daughters in floor length skirts. All of these religions are fighting with each other, but they all seem to coexist peacefully drifting down the river.

All of a sudden there was a muted sound, almost like bombs going off in the distance. My mom grew worried. She asked my dad, “You don’t think those are bombs, do you?” My dad said my mom was just being paranoid; that it was just the rafts being dumped out of the truck. My mom relaxed a little and we finished our trip down the river.

There is a small park right near the river with a playground and green grass and picnic tables. We ate lunch at one of the picnic tables, and no one worried about the strange noises.

My cousins kept getting calls on their cell phones. I later found out it was family members, checking to see if all of us were okay. The Kleiners’ family had known where we were going and told my cousins what happened. Here is the conversation between the Kleiners and my mom: Kleiners: We don’t want to worry you, but there was an…incident at the border.

Mom: WHAT? Kleiners: Don’t worry, don’t worry! It was a good 20 kilometers away!

Mom does math in her head Mom: That’s only TWELVE MILES away!!!!!

Some Israelis had been trimming the hedges that line the Israeli-Lebanese border. Some Lebanese soldiers thought the Israelis had gone over the border, so the Lebanese opened fire. Israel responded by bombing along the border. Two people were killed.

As we drove back, I thought about what had happened. It’s one thing to read about incidents like these in the news, but it’s an entirely different thing to be there and hear the sounds of war. Then I thought about everyone going down the river, existing peacefully. Maybe that’s how the world should exist: cool, clear, and peaceful.

Emma Caragozian 8th Grade 45

Images Dear Christopher Paolini, My heart is thundering, my eyes not quite believing the sight of the gigantic golden dragon rising before me. An air wall buffets me every time his translucent wings drive down, lifting his huge bulk higher above the cliff edge. The rising sun turns his scales to molten lava, the colors so vivid I have to shield my eyes from the dazzling sight. On his back sits a figure tiny in comparison, but I know he is the dragon’s equal. I am so overcome by the couple’s emanating force of power and wisdom that at first I don’t realize what this appearance means. Then, as my heartbeat settles slightly, it dawns on me, like the sun appearing after an era of darkness. There are more dragons!

The race lives on, hidden from the wrath of the tyrant king. My heart is soaring with hope that this hidden dragon and Rider have brought…And then the chapter ended.

I stopped reluctantly and glanced at the clock, realizing glumly it was bedtime. I sneaked a peek at my parents, both deep in their own pastimes. Crossing my fingers neither would look up, I turned the page of Eldest, and the adventure continued…

I want to thank you for this book. When I read it, I wasn’t here anymore. I wasn’t myself, living an ordinary life in an ordinary world. I was Eragon, living the thrill of his adventures, or Roran, fighting the hardships his life brings. The detail in which you wrote the book dragged me straight to Alagaësia itself, and before I knew it I was the rebirth of a legend centuries old. It seemed as if I had two different lives that I could switch between by only opening a book. I felt like I had a choice over the power of time and travel. It made my life so much more exciting; I saw in my usual life things I wouldn’t notice before; small things that had been normal and boring before, but now seemed like a link between the two worlds; a connection only I could make. I saw lost, shiny pennies as dropped scales of the great Glaedr, and far-off flying hawks as sky-high soaring dragons.

I felt special.

I want to also thank you for the inspiration you gave me. After I had read the book, I was amazed, but I assumed you, like many other fantastic authors, were getting on in the years, collecting knowledge and ideas as you went, and now, middle aged, you had amassed a large-enough mental library of vocabulary and plans to construct a book good enough to satisfy the literature world. When I found out what age you really were when you began writing Eragon – only a short two years away from the age I am now – I felt a hope rise inside me identical to the one described earlier in Eragon itself. I was amazed – even more so than before -- that you had written such a wonderful novel at such a young age. I had always wanted to be an author, but had assumed that I would have to work before I could even hope to publish a book. The knowledge that you had succeeded so magnificently at such a young age inspired me like nothing else has. Since discovering this, I had been writing pages of fantasy, propelled by new hope, aspiration and optimism.

And so I want to thank you again, not only for the breathtakingly amazing book and my other life, but also for the long-lasting inspiration you have provided me. This was the best gift I have ever received. Thank you.

Sincerely, Coreen Grant 8th Grade

46

Images Dear Mr. Montgomery, Picture this: You are spending your weekend as you normally do. You ride your horse on Saturday morning, play a double-header for your baseball team in the afternoon, and then go to bed feeling very tired. You don’t remember Sunday at all because you are in the emergency room in the hospital battling for your life. If you have ever nearly lost your life, you know that afterward you are determined to live every day fully. This is I after that terrible Sunday. An undiagnosed strep infection lodged in my kidneys and my kidneys responded by sending my blood pressure too high, resulting in brain seizures. I came close to dying. I feel a connection to Snowman, the $80 champion horse featured in your book Snowman.. The old grey horse is at an auction ready to head to the slaughterhouse when a man named Snowman Harry de Leyer saves him. Snowman goes on to challenge himself over high fences in show rings and win a big championship. It is like he knows he has been saved and is now committed to living full speed ahead and not holding back. I am kind of like that horse, living each day to capacity and looking for increasingly higher fences to jump on my horses.

When trying to achieve Herculean goals, it’s important to create strong partnerships. As you describe in your book, Mr. Montgomery, Snowman forms a special bond with his owner, Harry de Leyer. And like de Leyer, I am working at strengthening the bond with my horse as well. Harry de Layer is a riding teacher going up against seasoned professional show jumpers, but he never gives up, even thought the odds are against him. He isn’t afraid to risk embarrassment while trying to do so. I have to imagine that it is hard for him to have the guts to want to compete against very expensive horses with his $80 horse. I feel that this translates to my career with horses because I am not on the most expensive horse, but am on appropriate horses and the take them to high places and succeed. It must have been emotional for Harry because he knows that he could easily hurt his reputation by going out to the show ring and having a very disastrous round. I sometimes think the same thing, but try to remind myself that having a terrible round is merely an opportunity to learn something for the next time.

To some people, riding horses is just a sport. To me and to horsemen like Harry, it is a passion. I am committed to my goal of succeeding in a partnership with a living creature without taking shortcuts, just like Harry avoids shortcuts as detailed in your book. Harry de Leyer proves that you can succeed in riding horses no matter what type of horse you are on, whether it is a million dollar horse or an $80 horse who is steps away from the slaughterhouse.

As I go through life I will always remember that everyone has obstacles and the challenge is to use them to move forward. Mr. Montgomery, I imagine that you have chosen to write this biography because you appreciate how a special horse and rider can prove to the world that sometimes it doesn’t take money to succeed. You probably like how determination and a desire to go after all that life has to offer combine to bring about joy and success. Snowman shows me how even the most unlikely goals can turn into triumphs. Thank you, Mr. Montgomery, for researching and writing Snowman’s story. It has shown many children and riders like me how to bounce back from setbacks and go after seemingly impossible dreams.

Morgan Dickerson 8th grade

47

Images

Fascinating Subjects

I love tennis, Quick and tiring, Entertaining and fascinating.

Is anything More amusing than tennis?

I love sports, Intriguing and rewarding, Amazing and thrilling.

Is anything More active than sports?

I love family, Loving and warm, Fun and helpful.

Is anything More comforting that family Ian Freer 5th grade

48

Amanda Schaller, 5th grade

Images Dear the most praise-worthy author, Jon Krakauer, By reading Into the Wild, I learned a great and valuable lesson in life: that is, that one needs to be prepared when he or she goes out into nature.

When I first read this book and the other articles on the Internet, I did not know how hard it was for a man like McCandless to go out into wild. But on my last summer vacation, I went on a cruise to Alaska. At the end of my vacation, my family went to the same area where Chris McCandless died. The excursion took us on the Stampede Trail at the same time of the year that McCandless had traveled.

When we signed up, I had already read the book, and asked if we were going to see the bus that McCandless camped in, but we were not able to because the two rivers that McCandless crossed were impossible to pass at this time of the year.

While we were waiting for the bus to pick up up to bring us to the ATVs, the person who worked there told us stories about attempts people made trying to see the bus. One story was of a woman and her fiancé. They were able to visit the bus, but when they tried to return, they realized that the river was impossible to cross.

They walked down to an old cable crossing where they shot a piece of rope across and tied themselves to the rope so they could cross. The current was so strong that it dragged both of them underwater. The fiancé had a knife with him and was able to cur himself loose. When he went back to the cable crossing, his fiancé had drowned and was nowhere to be found. When I heard this story, I was shocked at the river’s strength and what it must have been like for McCandless.

As soon as the van arrived, our adventure started. When we hopped out of the van and onto the ATVs, it was freezing. This was about the coldest weather I have ever experienced. They offered gloves, and I grabbed them eagerly. When I finally embarked on the Stampede Trail in the ATV, the road was very wet and muddy. This was probably the same as it would have been for McCandless. During the ATV trip, I wondered how it must have felt for Christ with little clothing, a bag of rice, and hardly anything else. When I read the book, it sounded fun to do the things he did, but when I went to where he died, I realized how difficult it was for him. The water was so freezing that it felt hot, and the air was so cold that I could not even feel my fingers. There was hardly any wildlife that he could have caught in order to survive. If only he knew what he was up against in order to be able to survive, he might have better equipped himself.

A comment, made by a local woman, has stuck with me ever since the trip: “This land will always win, because it is difficult, it is hard, and unless you understand and have experience, you will never survive.”

Thank you for writing this book and giving me the opportunity to learn about the hardships that Chris McCandless experienced.

Sincerely your greatest book-fan, Wynn Harrow, 8th grade 49

Images Nightmare “Come in, come in!”

States the girl with a grin.

She takes you by the hand, Heedless to your demand, “Let me go!”

Through dusty dreams, You start to scream, In terror in fright, Oh, what a night!

“Why do you hate me so?”

A foxy smile, a mad leer, The raven’s song reaches tortured ears.

Shivering, shaking, Quivering, quaking, “. . .No. . .”

Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

Her silent reply reaches into your soul, Like a small child reaching for the last roll.

Looking at her, the girl in black, Head down, knife raised as if to attack.

“What? No?” Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

Her hands clench on the hilt, As she speaks out, with an exotic lilt.

“I said no. I don’t hate you.”

What to do? What to do?

“Can I come out with you, too?”

She asks, cocking her head to one side, Like an animal unsure of whether to run or hide.

You stare into dark green eyes, Which hold one single surprise.

“You. . .don’t know the way out, do you?”

She shakes her head, “This is your mind. You’re still in bed.”

Her eyes downcast, she sighs, Tears dripping from those dark green eyes.

Kathryn Berzas 7th grade Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

50

Images

Moonsingers From the depths of the earth they came From a world long plagued by ice and fire With blazing eyes and flowing mane Their fangs were shining from their ire They passes through thunder, stone, and flame Leaping ever forth, with purpose dire Stark songs they sung, which had no name Beneath the sky of roiling fire Thus in grim rage the wolf pack came With fleet paws pounding the barren earth And in their hearts there burned a flame A fierce desire to prove their worth But then at night, the demons fell Replaced by dark spirits bleak as fate Lupine forms harked to churchyard knells They gathered in the mist – to wait And as the moon sailed, shining cold They raised eerie howls to bless its flight As wolves shall do, for time untold To sing the moon awake each night Matilda Berke 7th grade

All doodles by Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

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Images

Monster Monster Monster Come out of my bed.

You scare me too much.

You have eyes and you stick your tongue out at me: So monster, monster, come out!

Theo Rosenfeld, 8th grade

Sydney Persaud 2nd Grade

Carson Schionning, 1st grade

52

Images The Monster The monster is under my bed That thing is stuck in my head I think it stole my mom’s purse And now I’m under his curse!!!!

I tried chatting with it, He shot back a nasty fit.

I tried again once more, And it was more mean than before.

Courtney Gangi 3rd grade

Henry Whitford, 4th grade Footsteps Soft, cold footsteps up the stairs I’m hiding under my teddy bears.

A quiet CREEAAK. . .It’s in the hall.

My little sister starts to bawl.

It’s getting closer and closer to the door, I don’t hear the footsteps anymore.

The doorknob slowly, quietly turns, I’m holding my blankets so tight; I’m getting rug burns.

I shake and quiver, paralyzed with fright, So scared, I don’t turn on the light.

It’s coming closer and closer to my bed, I know that in three seconds I’ll be dead.

The monster starts to meanly growl, I feel its breath, cold and foul.

It leans over and I open my eyes, Even though that wasn’t so wise.

When I look at the monster my heart takes a leap, The monster is my brother, who walks in his sleep.

Sarah Smith 4th grade

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Images

Who’s at home in the saggiest swamps, the snowiest forests, the hottest deserts, and just about any place else in North America?

THE BOBCAT! Rojan Naimi 2nd grade

Rojan Naimi, 2nd grade 54

Images The Big, the Bad, and the Blowguns I love storms, Vicious and powerful, Natural and beautiful.

Is anything More spectacular that storms?

I love boulders, Massive and mind-blowing, Silent and potentially dangerous Is anything More intriguing than boulders?

I love blowguns, Primitive and accurate, Silent and deadly.

Is anything More breathtaking than blowguns?

Max Caragozian 5th grade

Mia Pippert, 3rd grade 55

Images Winter Break My break was fun, crazy and relaxing. I mean really, I got freed from all homework, isn’t that relaxing? It all started out with my brother jumping on me at six o’clock a.m. I woke up and I read and read and read for about two hours. I was reading about a girl that had a brother just like me and made a tent to read in. Then, a phenomenal idea popped into my head. I got a big blanket, hooked it onto my bunk bed, got two chairs, and lots of big books, attached the blanket to the chairs and weighed it down with the big heavy books. The tent was quite nice. Cozy niches to read in, perfect hiding spots, and a soft plush pillow on my bouncy bunk bed. Occasionally I would sneak into the pantry and sneak some candy, but that was only when I was desperate. The only downside was that my mom could not snuggle with me when I had the tent in the way.

Lauren Ginn 3rd Grade

Spring Break Spring break, spring break, how wonderful The glow, Spring break, spring break, what a time to Show.

Singing in the sunny light, Dancing at the sight.

Spring break, spring break, and the best time Of your life.

Rory Grant 3rd Grade

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Images

SPRING Spring is fun because you can play in fresh air!

And smell red, beautiful roses!

Spring is fun because it’s nice and cool!

rains and shines. spring!

1st grade

Carson Schionning 1st grade

Spring is wonderful whe en it I love spring because it is

Uma Jandial

Spring is fun!

Fun, hot, Good for playing, Never rains, Sun is out.

Spring is nice.

Hip hop! Hip hop!

Easter is on its way.

Hip hop! Hip hop!

Spring is here, Hooray!

Peyton Burns 1st grade

I love spring.

Spring is my favorite season.

Spring is so fun.

I ݊ spring!

Gabriela Varga 1st grade

I like spring because there is Easter and you can have a lot of fun.

Meena Durairaj 1st grade

Callie Pippert 1st grade

Carson Schionning, 1st grade

57

Images When I See. . .

When I see The spring trees I smell the bark and hear the leaves When I see The spring rivers I hear the rumble of the water’s giggles When I see The spring flowers I think of all the wonderful colors Agueda Berlot 4th grade

Jonathan Potter, 5th grade 58

Images Black Cloak A candle, blown out by the earth’s breath, The flickering light hidden by fate.

Darkness taking over the sky, Showing it’s evil and hate.

Light gone, darkness instead Life disappearing, death showing its face.

Evil living in the air, Death possessing light and grace.

Sarah Smith 4th Grade

Hanna Barakat, 7th grade

Will Lanstra, 2nd grade Forgiving Dark A colorful rainbow after rain, The clouds hidden by the sun, A butterfly’s delicate wings take flight, The battle finally won.

Dark shrinks into a cage of defeat, The light pouring in, Green grass praising the burning sun, Light abolishing all sin.

Sarah Smith 4th Grade 59

Images Best Vacation Spot I feel like one of the luckiest kids in the world because I got to go to the grand Galapagos Island. At the Galapagos you can go on hikes, take walks, swim and play games on a cruise boat. I think everyone should go to the fabulous Galapagos.

The Galapagos it the absolute best place for a vacation. When I was there, I learned that fish could kill people. I also learned that birds could be very unusual shapes and colors, like the Bobby Bird. It is hot and humid because it is next to the equator.The food is so nutritious and fresh, that it makes other food from home taste horrible.

This vacation spot is very extraordinary! For all of those people out there that spend their vacation inside, think about this report the next break you have.The Galapagos always will be our there for a terrific family vacation.

Eryn Mitchell 3rd grade

Tommy O’Brien, 4th grade 60

Images6 African American Museum Come to this outstanding museum and learn about the amazing art and how people lived in the continent of Africa. On Tuesday, November 15, 2011, we went in small groups to the African American Museum. This trip was different in a way because you could learn magnificent facts about new and different cultures.

Covarrubias was a Mexican artist who liked to draw or paint the African American heritage. In the exhibit we saw a really detailed and humongous world map. We also saw Harlem everyday life and caricatures. My favorite part of the exhibit was two rare paintings that could not be seen anywhere else.

The Gallery of Discovery was very emotional, but people can learn a lot. The images I remember are the clay faces, the back-breaking labor of cotton pickers, and how it felt to be in the small, tight places where the slaves were kept. These galleries made me feel sorry for the people back then.

The trip was my first trip to any place like that, so now I am happy that I did not live back then.

Heather Thomasian 3rd Grade

Courtney Gangi and Arianna Stavropoulos, 3rd grade

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Images Kuma There was once a dog named Kuma. He lived with a family that had a small child. Her name was Grace. Her father would walk around the house with Grace on his back. Grace was a sweet, little girl. As she grew older so did Kuma.

One day Kuma went to his bowl to find one of the two house cats, Tesac or Queenie, drinking from his bowl like she did everyday. But this time she snuck a look at Kuma. It reminded him of the day when he lived in the Bay Area. He was out strolling in the bushes. It was an unusual, strong smell. It seemed like something that most humans hate most. . .a skunk. Humans hated them because they held their tails up high and they sprayed a deadly smell. Kuma pulled his owner towards the bush where this smell was coming from. He poked his head in the bush and then all of a sudden a blast of that smell hit his face with a burn. Oh boy did it burn! But after a few days Kuma was back to normal.

That story is just one of his many thoughts. He was very loyal indeed. Every day he woke up in the morning, he hoped that when he did die, whoever filled his place would be a great dog like him. A few years later Kuma got sick with a bad disease for dogs. It made him suffer so much after a few months he passed on to heaven and since then he has watched over Grace. He watched her become a fourth grader and watched her come home everyday from swimming. He truly was a great dog.

Grace Hitchcock 4th grade

Amanda Schaller, 5th grade 62

Images What Appeals to Me I love baseball, captivating and crazy, Historic and amazing, Is anything more creative than baseball?

I love tangerines, juicy and flavorful, small and round.

Is anything tastier than tangerines?

I love giraffes, large and majestic, yellow and brown.

Is anything taller than giraffes?

Max Rosenfeld 5th grade

Natalie Hewlett, 3rd grade

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Images Roses Roses come in different colors.

Red, pink, and many others.

A rose looks good in a vase.

But do not pick them in a haste.

You can pluck yourself with a thorn.

Some of your skin might be torn.

Roses are awesome.

They always blossom.

Josephine Tsai 2nd grade

FLOWERS Fantastic Lovely Orange Wonderful Elegant Real Sassy Josephine Tsai, 2nd grade 64

Uma Jandial 1st grade

I Love Cats

Images

Cats are small and tall.

They jump on you and claw.

Cats are cute But when you are mean‌ MEOW! They jump on you.

Isabella March 2nd Grade

Isabella March, 2nd grade 65

Images

The Unicorn A unicorn is a magical thing A horse with wings and a horn With a little bit of its magic, It can do anything!

That unicorn that flies in the sky Rojan Naimi 2nd grade

Rojan Naimi, 2nd grade 66

Images

Horses Horses Chocolate, brown, fast Gallop Swiftly, steadily, quickly Andrew Choi 3rd Grade

Caroline Myers, 2nd grade 67

Images

Peyton Burns, 1st grade

Furry Kittens

Computers

Kittens Cuddly, adorable, auburn Pad So silently away, so switfty Tonight

Computers Complex, Technical, Smart Calculates Quickly, Efficiently, Soon

Lauren Ginn 3rd grade

Andrew Gong 3rd Grade

Zara Castillo, 5th grade 68

Images

Skateboard Skateboard Small, black, and flat Moves Fast, ahead, often.

Matthew Gamboa 3rd grade

Ryan Waldheim, 4th grade

69

Images

Butterflies Butterflies Crimson, Aqua, Jade Flutter Swiftly again today!

Ashley Ahn 3rd Grade

Ashley Ahn, 3rd grade

My Violin I’ve always loved my violin because the sound it makes is very loving and musical. My lessons are once a week. I am trying to get more experience. My hope is to one day be a professional violinist and become world famous.

The one thing that bothers me is my fingers, getting hard. They get calluses from pressing the strings. Besides my fingers, everything is just fine.

I named my violin John! I got him when I was six. My violin is my most favorite thing in the world. I love John so much! He is the best thing in the world Ashely Ahn 3rd grade 70

Images Easter Gobbling candy eating sweets, Bunnies giving Easter treats.

Hopping here hopping there, Rabbits romping everywhere!

On the roof, in my car, Happily bouncing near and far!

They make you laugh, they make you smile, Easter won’t you stay awhile?!

Ella DesHotel and Sarah Smith 4th Grade

Katelyn Hsu, 3rd grade

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Images

Name of My Life Dreaming of a girl who goes on adventures With her grandparents, A free girl.

Never knowing what will happen next.

Living her life to the fullest, Making the best of everything.

Taking care of her family and home, Reassuring everyone in times of grief, Respecting those who surround her No one can take these characteristics away, My name is Charlotte Charlotte Strasburg 7th grade

Burning The super-power I desire, would be to control lava and fire!

I’d like to be a red and orange haze, Just like a living, human blaze!

My eyes would be a fiery red, The power would give you a spinning head!

I’d be just like a living danger, Raining volcanoes like a ranger!

So if you see a burning tree, You’l know that it was caused by me!

Sarah Smith 4th grade

Hanna Barakat and Kami Durairaj, 7th grade 72

Images

Nolan Melendes, 5th grade

Flash Storm Dark, Scary, Fierce Running Far away tonight.

Eryn Mitchell 3rd Grade

Hanna Barakat, 7th grade 73

Images Home Sweet Home Home is warm.

Home is big or small.

Home is safe.

Home is sweet.

Sydney Persaud 2nd Grade

Nolan Melendes, 5th grade 74

Images Grand Majesty Versus Silent Beauty The Sierra Nevada and the Rocky Mountains are two of the highest mountain ranges in the lower forty-eight states. These similar, yet completely different ranges offer diverse scenery and people. Their highest peaks soar above the 14,000-foot mark. Snow-capped, sometimes until August, both offer extremely challenging but rewarding slopes, walls, and peaks. The views that they offer are so spectacular that no one who has not seen them could ever imagine them. There are monumental monoliths and giant rock towers present today that have been carved by glaciers millions of years ago. Skiers enjoy the ranges in the winter. Hikers, backpackers, fishers, and climbers enjoy them in the summer. Finally, people trying to escape the heat of the Great Basin enjoy them year round.

Although these great mountain ranges have a lot in common, they also have multiple differences, such as the Sierra Nevada is slightly higher than the Rockies. The Rockies also stretch for more that 1,000 miles, while the Sierra is only a few hundred miles long. The Sierra Nevada is also a much older range. The Rockies are more populated and more “infested� with tourists because of national parks, while the Sierra Nevada offers a pure effect. The Sierra Nevada also gets snow because of the very short distance from the Pacific Ocean. Meanwhile, the Rockies get less rain due to being in the Sierra Nevada’s rain shadow. These two ranges tower in the sky like no other, so spectacular and unthinkably beautiful that no writing, picture, or video can capture the grand majesty and silent beauty.

Max Caragozian 5th grade

Lauren Ginn, 3rd grade 75

Images

Coolness of the Medal I remember when I polished my boots till they gleamed.

I remember when my horse tossed his head and pawed the ground like me, knowing this was his moment.

I remember when I gathered the reins and threw my leg over my horse’s waiting back, I could feel his power gather under me.

I remember when my senses were sharpened and I could feel, taste, see, and hear with extra power.

I remember the minute I entered the arena, the ten jumps in front of me took on monumental importance.

I remember when the wind was whirling and my horse was whinnying, I felt like the rest of the world was nothing.

I rememberwhen remember I heard the rhythmic sound of the canter as my horse found his stride.

I remember when I gathered his power and strength and we soared over the jumps and the wind was hitting my ears with its fists.

I remember feeling the victory pound through our veins as my horse and I left the arena similar to the Giants winning the World Series.

I remember the heat of victory that ran through me as I touched the coolness of the medal we won.

Morgan Dickerson 8th Grade

SADNESS Sadness is like a warm tear streaming down your cheek The cries of a lost child A heart broken It smells of ashes as they drift to the sky Cold and dreary in the black night Sadness moves slowly and eerily through the moi fog Empty streets and faded hopes Lost and uncertain in a dark dreary city Andrew Battany 7th grade

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Ava Delarosa, 2nd grade

Images I Remember I remember when I was sucked out to sea by an angry wave.

I remember sounds of clicking the first time I saw a dolphin swimming in the clear blue sea.

I remember flying off the Jet Ski like I was superman.

I remember the rush of air when I drove an ATV off a jump.

I remember my pounding heart the first time I was in a plane.

The plane engine roared like a Tiger and whined like a baby.

I remember the amazing world of colors the first time I dived into the ocean.

I remember the first time I went on the magnificent Crystal cruise liner.

I remember the first day that I went to school on the September morning.

Eric Lin 8th Grade

I used to be a boy But now I am a man who ponders about the world.

I used to be the cockiest of people But now I am a humble and modest man.

I used to be a dreamer But now I am a man who accomplishes his dreams.

I used to be fearful of wolves But now I can run with any pack.

I used to be an inexperienced Jewish boy But now I am a Bar Mitzvah.

I used to be a disrespectful and an unimportant member of society But now I am respectful of anyone who crosses my path of life, and I now feel important in society.

I used to be a boy who didn’t like spicy food But now I am a man who can eat the spiciest of foods.

I used to be afraid of the world and conflict But now I can face anything head on.

Jonah Sacks 8th grade

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Upper Left: Arianna Stavropoulos - 3rd grade Lower Left: Toussaint Hale - 3rd grade Upper Right: Art Xue, Bobby Rjo, and Rory Grant - 3rd grade Lower Right: Grace Hitchcock - 4th grade

▲ Caitlin Wu - 4th grade Talia Dell Angelo - 7th grade ▼

▲ Kerrigan Riley - 2nd grade Divya Kumar - 3rd grade ▼