BLUE Literary Magazine 2016-17 by TIS BLUE

BLUE Literary Magazine

The Independent Middle School 2016-17

BLUE Literary Magazine The Independent Middle School 8333 E. Douglas Ave. Wichita, Kansas 67218 2016-17 BLUE Literary Magazine Staff Adviser: Mrs. Debra Cole Student Editors: Mimi Recalde-Phillips Campbell Flemming BLUE Explore Class Members: Anna Bailly Jennifer Brosius Caroline Dedo Kristen Devlin Peyton Farber Palmer Farrow Campbell Flemming Rian Gallagher Judah Hansen Ava Jacobsen Joshua Jacobsen Matthew Janssen Garret Jensen Jayda Kelly Stephanie Liu Ryan Mahoney Grace Martin Luke Novak Joanna Pistotnik Hank Ramsey Cooper Randleas Mimi Recalde-Phillips Caitlyn Richmond Cyan Rose McKenna Stump Logan Tidemann Janna Wagner

Front Cover: Back in Time - Mixed Media by Sonia Richardet (6th)

Self Portrait - Photography by Edie Gill (6th)

Welcome

The follow pages are the culmination of a year of student creativity and passion. We believe that celebrating quality, thought-provoking writing and a variety of innovative art forms is the key to promoting a healthy environment where expression thrives. Thank you to the middle school teachers that promote, inspire, and submit the work of their talented students.

Table

Back in Time by Sonia Richardet...........................Front Cover Self-Portrait by Edie Gill.....................................1 Nova by Grace Martin......................................2,3 You Lead by Peyton Farber.................................4 I’ll Follow by Ethan Kabler................................4 The Ritual of Rage by Judah Hansen.................4 Time, Time, and Time Again by Caitlyn Richmond...........................................4 The Maze by Katy Dickinson..............................4 Captiain Tory by Jayda Kelly..............................5 Sooner by Rian Gallagher...................................6 Tea Cup by Jayda Kelly.......................................6 Effort by Jennifer Brosius...................................6 It’s a Small, Small World by Peyton Farber..................................................6 Ying Yang by Graham Burmeister......................7 Control by Arianna Hinson.................................7 You Never Listen by Kate O’Malley....................7 Toddler Horror by Judah Hansen.......................7 Freedom by Abbie Carpenter..............................7 Life? by Grace Martin.........................................7 Youth by Garret Jensen.......................................7 Free by Sofia Aguiniga........................................7 Lethargarians by Willow Ecker...........................8 Silence by Caroline Dedo....................................8 The Wish Flower by Katie Dickinson.................9 A Little Happiness by Mia Hoeflicker.................9 Trapped by Cyan Rose.........................................9 Internal Thoughts by Caitlyn Richmond...........9 Half of My Story by JoAnna Pistotnik...............9 Unwritten by Cyan Rose....................................10 Mother by Jayda Kelly.......................................10 My Flock by Anna Bailly...................................10 Tree Skin by Grace Martin...............................10 Fly, Beetle, Fly by Megan Skinner....................10 A Friend No More by Claire Sturm..................11 Solitude by Ethan Kabler...................................11 Silence by Sonia Richardet................................11 The Cabinet by Ethan Kabler............................12 Time by Thomas J. Lewis..................................12 Double Vision by Pranav Reddy.......................12 Double Vision by Mia Hoeflicker......................12 Sunday by Devin Larson...................................13 Levi Ackerman by Gracie Dedo........................13 Little Memories by Edie Gill..............................14 By the Lake by Kristen Devlin..........................14 Love Yourself by JoAnna Pistotnik...................14 I’m Lost by Max Christie..................................14 Technology by Willow Ecker.............................14 Silence by Abbie Carpenter...............................15 Cock-A-Doodle, Who? by Edie Gill...................15 The Drink by Ari Barmor..................................16 Observations by Olivia Sutton...........................16 Fixed by Cooper Randleas................................16 Miscellaneous by Caroline Jiang......................16 Emerald Eyes by Meghan Skinner....................16 Annie by Janna Wagner....................................17 Mischief by Julia Douglas.................................17 Trapped by Rian Gallagher...............................17 Steady Crossing by Sophie Agha......................17 Part of the World by Peyton Farber..................18 My Closed Envelope by Janna Wagner.............18 Bronze Love by Anna Bailly..............................18 Splattered Meadow by Ellie Patton...................18 Time Flies by Costa Veletas...............................19 Forever Alone by McKenna Stump...........19

Nova by Grace Martin (7th)

Content Revenge’s Birth by Judah Hansen.....................19 End of the Season by Olivia Sutton...................19 Flames by Liesel DeWalt....................................20 A Hard Goodbye by Julia Douglas.....................20 Apple Tree by Caitlyn Richmond.......................20 Up Not Down by Riley Bennett..........................21 Archie Smith, Boy Wonder by Charlie Daood................................................22 Candyland by Ellie Patton..................................22 The Issue with Dreams by Graham Burmeister.......................................23 Go Beyond Fear by Abbey Littrell.....................23 Violent Seclusion by Uday Kabirpanthi............23 Roadside Attraction by Isabella Snow................23 Disinterest by Hank Ramsey..............................24 Mercy by Abbie Carpenter.................................24 Two Faced by Edie Gill.......................................24 Glass Chambers by JoAnna Pistotnik...............25 Transparency by JoAnna Pistotnik....................25 Life of a Pencil by McKenna Stump.................26 His Tone by Anna Bailly.....................................26 The Unknown by Ethan Kabler.........................26 Sole Love by Edie Gill.........................................26 The Endless Sidewalk ‘by McKenna Stump..........................................27 My Name is Growth by Caitlyn Richmond.........................................27 Growth by Liesel DeWalt....................................27 Woodsman by Mia Hoeflicker............................27 Paris Lights by Julia Douglas.............................27 The Strange Garden by Ava Shadid...................28 Nature Expands by Lilly Willis..........................33 Moon Rise by Dylan Cope..................................34 Ripples by Megan Skinner..................................34 Wolfpack by Caroline Dedo................................35 A Known Silence by Sofia Aguiniga...................35 America by Matthew Janssen............................35 Thoughts by Rian Gallagher..............................35 Punk Rock by Veronica Burdette......................35 Tomorrow by Cooper Randleas..........................36 The Scar by McKenna Stump............................36 Mistakes by Liesel DeWalt.................................36 Mr. Bird by Costa Veletas...................................36 Roses by Abbey Littrell......................................36 Stay by Me by Gracie Dedo................................37 Messages of Love by JoAnna Pistotnik, Jayda Kelly, and Palmer Farrow.............................................38 Images of Love by Julia Douglas, Mia Hoeflicker, Peyton Farber, Sophie Agha Riley Bennett, and Pranav Reddy.....................38 Broken Heart by Bryson Toubassi.....................39 Ideals by Anna Bailly..........................................39 Why? by Hanna Scheck......................................39 Religion of Time by Tori Dexter.........................39 Lazy River by Caitlyn Richmond.......................39 Perspective of Heaven by Graham Burmeister.......................................40 Path to Knowledge by Olivia Sutton..................40 The Magical Dream by McKenna Stump.........40 My Mirage by Anna Bailly..................................40 Tell Me by Jett Schmidt......................................40 Time Troubles by Satvik Kolla...........................40 Disappearing by Shreya Reddy..........................40 Forgiveness by Olivia Sutton.............................41 Complicate Hands by Jayda Kelly....................41

Mist by Mia Hoeflicker.......................................42 A Girl With a Fake ID by Anna Bailly...............42 Dark Spirits by Campbell Flemming...............42 Amen by Tori Dexter..........................................42 Double Barrel by Judah Hansen.......................43 There She Sits by Anna Bailly............................43 The Last Minute by Stephanie Lu.....................43 The Whisper by Anna Bailly..............................43 Diamond Eyes by Cyan Rose.............................43 Water by Garret Jensen......................................44 The Creek by Lawson Trimmell........................44 The Boy by Campbell Flemming.......................44 Square in the Eyes by Jennifer Brosius, Liesel DeWalt Katy Dickinson, and Claire Sturm...................44 I’m Happy, Really, I’m Happy by Ava Jacobsen..................................................44 The Third-Floor Bedroom by Matthew Rao.....45 Twins by Peyton Farber.....................................45 The Wisdom of 3 Monkeys by Ari Barmor........46 Love by Anna Bailly............................................46 Black Hole by Janna Wagner............................46 Him by Ellie Patton............................................46 Found by Stephanie Lu......................................47 Snow by Cooper Randleas.................................47 Confined by Lilly Willis.....................................47 Stop Complaining by Mimi Recalde-Phillips..................................48 Confirmed by Anna Bailly..................................48 Health by Matthew Janssen..............................49 Dash by Caroline Jiang......................................49 Ombre Dream by Abbey Littrell........................50 Strange Forest by Alex Boone............................51 Morning Magic by Mia Hoeflicker....................51 One Gesture by Gracie Dedo.............................51 Death by Garret Jensen.....................................51 Ceil by Gracie Dedo...........................................52 Bite of Summer by Sonia Richardet.................52 The Baby by Anna Bailly....................................52 Lurking Darkness by Uday Kabirpanthi..........52 The Break of Sanity by Graham Burmeister....52 Harmony by Cooper Randleas..........................52 A Map to Me by Anna Bailly..............................52 Music by Caroline Dedo.....................................53 Batman by Logan Gillespie................................53 Silence by Addie Stultz......................................53 Behind the Walls of Deceit by Katy Dickinson..............................................53 Sickness Sours by McKenna Stump.................53 Yesterday’s Lunch by Katlyn Harman..............53 Seven by Liesel DeWalt......................................54 Confidence by Michial Argotsinger...................54 Sihouette by Kate O’Malley...............................54 Hearts by Mia Hoeflicker...................................55 Kisses by Jett Schmidt........................................55 Prairie Walks by Jayda Kelly.............................55 Happiness by Arianna Hinson...........................55 Blank Words by Gene Campini.........................55 Unlucky by Grace Martin..................................56 Romance by Jayda Kelly....................................56 The Pill by Caroline Dedo..................................56 I am Only a Child by Anna Bailly......................56 Dangerous Game by William Wolverton..........56 The Rise by Luke Novak....................................57 Wings by Stephanie Lu......................................57 The Journey by Katlyn Harman.......................57 Fallen by Graham Burmeister..........................58 Grandparents by Isabella Snow.........................59

Images of Spring by Olivia Ablah, Kaity McEntaffer Riley Bennett, and Lauren Schmeidler..............59 Mr. Linden’s Library by Satvik Kolla.................60 My Brain by Alex Boone......................................62 Maybe If I knew I was Beautiful by Abbie Carpenter.............................................63 Smoke You Out by Mimi Recalde-Phillips....................................63 My Life by JoAnna Pistotnik..............................63 Strength by Olivia Sutton....................................64 The Songbird by Jett Schmidt.............................64 The Head by Grace Martin.................................64 Time by Rian Gallagher.......................................64 Light in Darkness by Caitlyn Richmond............65 The Journey by Dylan Cope................................65 Venus by Ava Jacobsen........................................65 Her by Janna Wagner..........................................65 Blue Bear by Mason McCormick.......................65 Rauuugh! by Judah Hansen...............................65 Strolling by Rian Gallagher................................66 If the Shoe Fits by Sonia Richardet...................66 She Lived in a Shoe by Sonia Richardet............66 Chill by Mason McCormick...............................66 The Slave by Hadasa Barmor.............................67 Rachelle by Rian Gallagher................................67 Da Food Monster by Vijay Muthukumar..........67 Beautiful World by Logan Gillespie....................67 Three Muses by Rian Gallagher.........................68 Her Love by Ari Barmor......................................68 I-m-a-g-i-n-a-t-i-o-n! by Ava Jacobsen...............68 Seflies by Katlyn Harmon, Charlie Daood, Isabella Snow, Edie Gill, and Mia Hoeflecker............................69 Worry by Cooper Randleas.................................69 Stop. Do Nothing Else. Maybe. by Judah Hansen.................................................69 Infinity by Peyton Farber....................................70 Underwater Snail by Megan Skinner..................70 Swim Instructor by Caitlyn Richmond...............70 Perfect by Claire Sturm.......................................70 Starboard by Judah Hansen................................71 My Body by Garret Jensen..................................72 Betrayal by Sophie Agha.....................................72 Together Forever You Said by Caitlyn Richmond.............................................................72 Sideways Stairs by Ava Shadid............................72 Connections by Jillian Capps..............................72 Storm Front by Graham Burmeister..................73 #3 by Garret Jensen.............................................73 Liar by Peyton Farber.........................................73 Peppers in the Sun by Kate O’Malley................73 Tuttle the Turtle by Mia Hoeflicker.....................73 Watch Me Fly by JoAnna Pistotnik....................74 Vines by Avery Boydston.....................................74 The Swamp by Arianna Hinson..........................74 Bones and Limbs by Ava Shadid.........................74 Bad Day by Grace Martin...................................75 In the Books by Rian Gallagher..........................76 Devastation by Katy Dickinson...........................76 Antelope Canyon by Riley Bennett.....................76 Horseshoe Canyon by Riley Bennett..................76 Shameless by Anna Bailly....................................77 One Voice by Garret Jensen................................77 Ready by Gracie Dedo.........................................77 Crayola Pipeline by Joseph Recalde-Phillips....77 East River in the West by Graham Burmeister.......................................78

You Lead - Photography

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Follow - Photography

by Peyton Farber (7th)

by Ethan Kabler (8th)

The Ritual of Rage

Time, Time, and Time Again

By Judah Hansen (7th)

By Caitlyn Richmond (7th)

Rage is an intolerant, radical instrument. It honks out wrong notes against your will. You only half mean them tough, But yet, deep down, It was you who played them, Even if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe it.

Comfort, you are a thoughtful, dramatic friendship. You have taught me. You can be theatrical, But that is what I love about you. You are what I come back to every time.

The Maze By Katy Dickinson (7th) The maze that is my mind Keeps me lost trying To find a path through. My thoughts are obstacles that stand To make me lose my way On the road ahead.

Captain Tory By Jayda Kelly (6th) It was a somber and blustery night. The sky was a rich black and it seemed as if the world was enclosed in its gloomy dome. I was walking down Ninth Avenue in Rome, New York. The moon was shining down providing my only source of light. The wind whispered around me playing tug-of-war with the leaves around my feet. I walked out near the bay. The sharp iron fence was doing a terrible job of hiding the nose-blinding stench from the docks below. My lantern gave out, and the moon was away playing hide and go seek with the stars. My eyes slowly adjusted to the pitch-darkness. I felt a drip of water fall on my face and seep into my frail cloak. Minutes passed and the pit-pat of the rain continued to keep time with the slow beat of my hollow heart. A tall dark figure slowly appeared at my side casting the shadow of an old plump man. His lantern shone brightly, and I could once again see the ocean rising and falling, spinning and twirling. It reminded me of the time I watched tall flexible girls dance through the window of Dream to Dance Dance Studio. The figure glanced at me sideways, I could tell he wanted to know everything. Why was this eleven-year-old kid out by the bay at midnight, in the middle of New York? The smell of fresh pipe came from his jacket, and rain fell down from his beard. “What’re you doin’ out here in the middle of the night?” I asked bravely. “Waitin,” he said simply. His gruff voice was deep and soothing, like the sound of Santa Claus ho-ho-hoing, except he didn’t seem all too jolly. I let my ears savor his serene, huff voice. “Ain’t we all,” I replied hoping to end the conversation. “What you out here waiting for?” the man mentioned. “I ain’t even ‘nough,” I said. “My name’s Aaron and I don’t know how I got here. My ma n’ pa done left me out here and I ain’t goin’ to no orphanage. My home is in that abandoned house down Ninth Avenue. I help out Captain Tory down n’ da docks, that’s how I make me some big bucks,” I let the words slowly slip from my lips, it felt good and relaxing to tell someone about me, someone other than Captain Tory. I thought about what I just said, a complete stranger, why had I just spilled my life out into a complete stranger’s lap? The figure just stared at me; I think a saw I twinkle of sympathy in his eyes, as they sparkled in my direction. My hands itched to be working on Captain Tory’s schooner. I wanted so badly to see him smoking his pipe and singing low key with his deep jolly voice. I needed that comfort, and most importantly, I needed that money. I hadn’t eaten in two long days, I was famished. The man just watched me with curious eyes. It was silent, the rain slowed. Where was Captain Tory? He had taken off for this voyage a week ago. I desperately wanted him to come back, I wanted the sun to shine over me and let the warmth of its rays tell me that everything was going to be okay. Instead the stars slowly twinkled themselves to sleep, and once again the world was encompassed in the sky’s pitch black dome. Days and nights passed, my body was getting frailer by the second. My stomach ached to have something to digest, and my throat begged for something to slake its dryness. I spent my days roaming through New York hiding in my head, thinking of Captain Tory, and the glorious day when he would return. I waited and waited. One night as I was walking down by the bay, a figure appeared at my side. The lantern shown onto a plump, older man. I thought back in my head, why does this guy look so familiar? Then it clicked in my brain this was the same mysterious guy I had seen the other night. His eyes pranced over and locked with mine, it was like in one glance he could see deep into my young, hopeless soul. Quickly I turned my head trying not to show any emotion. As a man I wasn’t supposed to have feelings, right? As a young working boy I couldn’t cry or complain, I had to look the situation in the eye and fight back, right? Before I could finish my thoughts the man’s scrawny hand reached out and grabbed me by the arm, I shot back, and as I did, He swung his lantern three times and slowly the schooner appeared. I leaped with joy, my heart fluttered inside my chest. My captain was finally back! I walked down to the docks where the stench was horrifying. It was silent down near the ocean, nobody was awake for it was 2:25 in the morning. I skipped gleefully down to where the ship had docked, but there was no one on the schooner, it was empty, completely empty! I turned and started to run, my cloak was flying in the wind and my hair up on my head sticking out in all directions. Then I bumped into the man, he had been following me. There was fury burning in his eyes as he stared down at me. I was scared and worried. The world started to spin, tears flooded from my eyes. The world went into a blur. Where was Captain Tory, where was I? I felt nails dig deep into my arm, I was being dragged. There was a sharp scream, then a crash. Then it stopped. Everything went black and the world froze in time. The sun peeped in through my window. The birds played me a low key, soft good morning song. A cool, crisp breeze came in through my open window, and there was a puddle of sweat under my head. I arose from my sleep sore and tired. I told myself over and over again that it was just a dream, but my mind wouldn’t believe it. My father walked into the room, the smell of pipe following him. “How’d you sleep Tory?” “Fine,” I lied. I wondered if he could see that I was covered in sweat. “Well I was thinkin that maybe we can go on down to da docks today and catch ourselves some crab.” I smiled at this once again feeling safe as my father’s toothpick wiggled in between his teeth. I nodded. “All righty then, you best be gettin yourself dressed and ready, then we be goin.” “Aye Aye captain,” I said. I got up, and was just leaving to go brush my teeth, when out of the corner of my eye I saw a plump, dark shadow creeping on the side of my wall. A cold chill ran up my spine, and I quickly exited my room.

Sooner A Monologue By Rian Gallagher (7th) My name is Trent, and I'm twelve years old. My life is a nightmare: pop ups, dramatic music, and then me, the star, the horror of the movie. I lost my right leg when I was nine. Three years, and I still wake up confused or crying or even screaming. I lost my leg because of a car wreck on my way to the beach. You see, I was diagnosed with liver cancer and surfing was my death wish. My doctors told me I had two months to live, well that was 3 years ago. I honestly wish I wasn't “lucky” as the doctors say. I’m at home every day doing online classes, even though I won't make it to college. Just stuck in my wheelchair thinking. I feel kinda lost in life. There's no point for me to keep living. I could die at any moment without even getting up to do something which I wouldn't be able to do anyways because of my leg. But my parents are happy I'm still here. They tell me I will get over it, but we all know I won't. I guess I'm just holding on until I can't anymore. The thought of death makes me certain - certain that the pain will end soon. This comforts me. At the same time, it's terrifying. I mean, think about it. I'll be here one second gone the next, no goodbyes, no new hellos. Everybody goes, some just have to leave sooner than others I guess.

Tea Cup By Jayda Kelly (6th) There once was a lonely tea cup For nobody cared for it much It was left empty Not a drop of tea So he sat there sad and boxed up

Effort By Jennifer Brosius (7th) Effort is a peculiar, thoughtful experiment. It is what gets me far. I must think deep about what I am looking for. In the beginning, it feels weird and strange, But in the end, I will get what I been working hard for.

It’s a Small, Small World - Photography by Peyton Farber (7th)

Ying Yang by Graham Burmeister (8th) She ignores befriending, laughs at shameless composure Her mind is cruel and full of dark thoughts I love her for that We complete each other She is my best friend Balance

Control by Arianna Hinson (7th) Silence as her left the drawing room He’s angry because he understands why Because he wants it all He has lost it Yet, he’s silent It’s what? Control

You Never Listen by Kate O’Malley (7th) I see you struggle with pure confusion I told you I was right But you did not listen and you never do I hope you regret that mistake

Toddler Horror by Judah Hansen (7th) The beating on the door increased more It would not stop for anyone On and one - bang bang The door cracked open The shadow creeped Hey, Honey Bedtime

Freedom by Abbie Carpenter (8th) There’s one thing we’re always reaching for Always just out of reach It is always right there But not quite here Always in sight not attainable freedom

Life? by Grace Martin (7th) My life is not all roses either. I’m not sure of the purpose How should we spend it but not grow spikes try growing roots rose, no trees

Youth by Garret Jensen (7th) That one very peculiar feeling of youth I remember it so fondly now and how I lost it I saw one man Who just stopped he was me

Free by Sofia Aguiniga (6th) Hammering with a bottle on the window A young lad with challenged English Awkwardly jumped through the window Spurs in his legs Hands against him Anatole slowly fell

Lethargarians By Williow Ecker We are here only to do nothing. He takes time to linger and delay. She puts off smiling â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;til Thursday. We never take time to laugh. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think that if we stop procrastinating, we could get out of the doldrums.

Silence - Mixed Media by Caroline Dedo (7th)

Trapped

The Wish Flower By Katie Dickinson (7th)

By Cyan Rose (7th)

I am like a wish flower, sometimes treated like a weed, and other times like a thing of hope for the better. If you want me to leave simply blow the words at my face, and I float away on the wind. If you let me, I will grow.

I can still see the demons Cut loose by imperfection Red roses change with time Hooked on accidental rain drops It is all gone

A Little Happiness By Mia Hoeflicker (7th)

The air was quiet. Everything was quiet as she sat there waiting. Afterward, the birds sang. This was what she was waiting for. This was all she needed. A little happiness.

Half of My Story- Mixed Media Internal Thoughts - Mixed Media by Caitlyn Richmond (7th)

by JoAnna Pistotnik (8th)

9 9

Unwritten Poem By Cyan Rose (7th) When people are asked to describe their heart most people say kind or loving. However I'm not like most people. If I were asked that question I would simply say, an unwritten poem. It sounds sort of sad and lonely, but it's not. It is one of the most beautiful ways I could describe myself. My heart is a story with graceful flow rolling off the tongue like music. The best story ever thought of, never to be written on paper. So many amazing secrets to share and things to say just no way to tell them, no one to listen. A poem will always help you when you need words of confidence, but you will never return that love to the poem. Such a meaningful tale to tell, just convinced there's no talent to write it. A story spread once, and then forgotten. The words peeled off pages by other books and swept into a corner to sit forever and choke on dust. Everyone longs for the day their story will be read to the world, some never see it, others words pop with color in the glory. I will never know if my own unwritten poem will be created and spread to the ears of many or never see the light of praise. But I know the empty page and ink will always be there, waiting patiently for anyone who dares to dream.

Mother By Jayda Kelly (6th) There once was a mother who cared. Though HE didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, she wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t scared. She cried many nights. Her trust left her tight. So her heart was left so impaired.

My Flock By Anna Bailly (7th) I now live in a cold life frock. I am the one the town will mock. Can no longer smile. No love for a mile. Just wanting to find my own flock.

Tree Skin - Ink on Canvas

Fly, Beetle, Fly - Ink on Canvas

by Grace Martin (7th)

by Megan Skinner (7th)

A Friend No More By Claire Sturm (7th) Embarrassment is a peculiar, rude argument. He shares stories against my will. He taunts me with others’ words. He exposes my flaws with hatred. He betrays my trust.

Solitude - Photography Silence

by Ethan Kabler (8th)

By Sonia Richardet (6th) There’s a new phenomenon happening all around me. Everyone can now read minds. I don’t know how the world will survive. Everywhere I go, I see lies. Our world is built on them. On one hand, it might persuade people to start telling the truth. On the other hand, it just may destroy everything. Despite all that is happening, my mind is finally clear as I walk down empty streets with empty people. The televisions lining store walls buzz in my brain. I know. How, if I’m supposed to be able to read minds, is my mind empty? That I cannot say. I hope you never find out. I walk past the fortune telling booths that are using thriving and find them empty. How have so many given up? People are now alone. They still have lives. When walking down the streets these days, very few would notice the change, because few are outside. I sit and watch the barren streets. Today is different. An unknown intercom in my ear comes to life, and I am pulled out of my silence. A voice I barely recognize tells me to stay alert. “They” are coming any minute now. I look up to see various birds soar in formation. I wonder how they feel - so free from worries and with others. To my right, a paper announcement previously attached to a pole falls to the ground. I pick it up and unfold it, carefully reading every line. For the first time in a very long time, I smile. There just may be hope after all.

The Cabinet By Ethan Kabler In that cabinet, it is crying to it’s master for some sort of medicine. A closed door useless, desperate, and sulky. A strange note A drugWanted bitterly badler. Emotion breaking loose Another order Another paper Expense is no consideration to the master. It begins to beg for its life Bending nearer to the candle For God’s sake… Satisfy it.

Double Vision Photography & Digital Manipulation Top Left: by Pranav Reddy (6th) Top Right: by Pranav Reddy (6th) Bottom Left: by Pranav Reddy (6th) Bottom Right: by Mia Hoeflicker (6th)

Time By Thomas J. Lewis Time, track the day Time, 60 seconds, 60 minutes, 24 hours, 365 days Time, so very valuable Time, should not waste Time, more valuable than diamonds Time, with arms outstretched - embrace it Time, marches on - it waits not Time, not material - it carries away Time, speeding along never ending.

Sunday By Devin Larson (8th) Impossible was the hope of his. A prisoner of his mind A Sunday of infinite sadness.

Levi Ackerman - Illustration by Gracie Dedo (7th)

Little Memories - Photography & Digital Manipulation

By the Lake - Photography by Kristen Devlin (7th)

by Edie Gill (6th)

I’m Los

Love Yourself

By Max Christie (6th)

by JoAnna Pistotnik (8th) Can one be well while suffering normally? Can our souls truly be happy after breaking the heart of another? We hurt others because it’s the only way to make ourselves happy. Because treating others like s**t is “ok.” Why were we put on this earth? We were put on this earth to love. To love ourselves and each other. Because in the end, all we have is us.

“I’m lost.” Milo then fell into the doldrums. Milo pulled the book from his car. Beginning to read without interrupted, He reasoned lightly with the book And noticed dozens of ideas. As he finished the conversation, He began to think. The doldrums was just a dream From which he woke. And as he woke, more ideas spoke, With even more color.

Technology by Willow Ecker (6th)

Ah, may the devil take you and everybody. You only care about yourself and your materialistic possessions. You never stop to see the amazing wonders in the world. You only see what is wrong, and you never try to fix it. You say the world is such a bad place, yet you just stare at your screen. You never appreciate the people in your life, just the people in the news. May the devil take you and everybody.

Silence By Abbie Carpenter (8th) Spite swells and grows louder. Shadows are suddenly sharp and hissing. Light shrinks. Now silent. Fear swiftly fogs patience. Night leads to solidarity and darkness. The shadow is hissing, and light is silent.

Cock-a-Doodle, Who? - Mixed Media by Edie Gill (6th)

The Drink

Observations

By Ari Barmor (8th)

By Olivia Sutton (8th)

I sprung out of my deadliest terror. I staggered from death and viewed my inexplicable faded moment. Affecting change, I visited Satan and drank the superior fame and power as my open mouth gasped for air. Satan takes the drink, gulps, and laughs.

Observations struck me seizing the essence of hatred. The nature of man was revolting yet remarkable. His origin, life, fortune, and status bore resemblance to personal distaste. I can only describe it as disgusted curiosity.

Fixed by Cooper Randleas (6th) Fixes were her eyes upon his, as if she craved his attention. At that moment, he knew he was in love with the beautiful swan named Hope. If felt as if she had reached into him and discovered his wound. Then, without thinking, he tried to kiss her. She kissed him back. Hope had repaired his heart.

Left: Miscellaneous - Mixed Media by Caroline Jiang (8th)

Right: Emerald Eyes - Mixed Media

by Megan Skinner (7th)

Annie By Janna Wagner (7th) Some hearts may never understand why orphans get adopted No one wants a child they think someone gave up. There must be something wrong with them. Some hearts may never understand. Orphans think the exact same thing every day. Where are my real parents? Who are they? Why have they not retrieved me yet? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t they miss me? Do the feel regret for giving me up? Invisible That's what they feel. No one will ever want or see them. They are like ghosts in the shadows. Shadows People seem to care too much about their own shadows. They care more about themselves than how many children are in orphanages. The most adult thing I can think of Before you have a child go to the Orphanages Just to be even considered as an achievement in their books I get that you werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ready to have a child It has your DNA The least you can do is When you are older and ready Go get them Some ears may never understand The importance of acceptance

Top: Mischief - Photography by Julia Douglas (8th)

Trapped - Photography by Rian Gallagher (7th)

Steady Crossing - Photography by Sophie Agha (6th)

Part of the World - Photography & Digital Manipulation by Peyton Farber (7th)

My Closed Envelope By Janna Wagner (7th) Health is a hazy, tragic experiment. From the first breath, something was wrong. My life is a sealed envelope that canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be opened. Finding my way out will be dramatic. My life will be a never ending experiment.

Bronze Love By Anna Bailly (7th) There once was a strong bronze soldier, Who could not come home to hold her. She loved him too much. She missed him a bunch. All watched him give her the cold shoulder.

Splattered Meadow - Painting by Ellie Patton (8th)

Time Flies By Costa Veletas (6th) Tick, Tock, Tick, Tock Expectations Determination Violet was in an inconvenient situation. She was falling. Her escape had gone wrong. Her parents escaped well, But as watch dogs, It was their work. But right now, she was falling through the vastness of the atmosphere. The remains of a craft joining her in the crimson light of evening. An engine spinning wildly Pieces of the wing The same bottle of coca-cola she drank from exactly two minutes earlier.

Forever Alone By McKenna Stump (7th) Fear is a musty, drenched photograph. A photograph floats down the river, but no one knows the fear it holds. It is the smell of a deep, dark cave that has no end. If you look closer, you can see a child a child that is forever alone. The photograph is drenched with fear, and it will never be dry again.

Revengeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birth By Judah Hansen (7th) Bitterness is a drenched, dramatic memory. It lurks behind a curtain of hate. It crouches, hiding away from forgiveness and peace. It fills your mind - day after day. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Til it evolves into a want for revenge.

End of the Season - Photography by Olivia Sutton (8th)

Flames By Liesel DeWalt (7th) The flames burn inside the candle The door bell rings Now the flames burn inside my heart He took my heart away Then threw it in his fireplace I didn't want him to stay The tears roll down my cheek His actions make me weak He made me think I was a freak Later on it turned to ash All my feeling I wanted to smash And then my memory started to flash

A Hard Goodbye By Julia Douglas (8th) Sorrow suddenly clouded his mother’s love. The lights flickered with the passing train. All of my things were now packed into my suitcase. “You lied to me for the last time.” As soon as the train had passed, they held a gaze. He turned to the door but hesitated. “She didn’t even try to stop me.”

Apple Tree - Scratch Art by Caitlyn Richmond (7th)

Up Not Down - Photography & Digital Manipulation by Riley Bennett (6th) & Mia Hoeflicker (6th)

Archie Smith, Boy Wonder by Charlie Daood (6th) “Archie, Archie Smith! Get down here now! Where are you, Archie?!” He was in the closet at the time. His father found him and tried to open the door, it was locked. “Dad let me out!” Archie shouted through the door. Suddenly, a light came flying through the crack between the double doors. He backed up, completely terrified. He literally ran straight into a wall that wasn’t there three seconds ago. Archie had run out of options and punched the light. The light dimmed and he fell unconscious for some strange reason. Archie woke up with his father's body beside him. He was about to check his father's vitals, when suddenly he saw the cat. He ran to shoo it away from his father’s body. It then ran at Archie and turned into a dog. The “dog cat” thing jumped at Archie. Archie dodged and struck the cat. Then by some invisible force he fell back into sleep. This time he woke to find his stepmom’s body beside him. He had run out of family. He didn’t try to check her vitals. She was the last thing he needed now. All he could do was run. He screamed. Not because of his stepmom, but because all of this had killed his mother too. He ran at the final test, a bear and touched it. With one finger. He fell asleep. He never woke up. With the last piece of his consciousness, his spirit, he looked back at this terrible week. It all started with sleeping in too much. Evidently, Archie couldn’t go to sleep. So he pretended to be asleep so he didn’t have to say goodnight to his stepmom. He heard something he shouldn’t have heard. A tiny voice said, “Is he the one?” A deeper voice answered, “I am afraid so. We will start his tests this week, I hope he doesn't turn out like his mother did.” The tiny voice said,”He is the last one, isn’t he?” The deep voice said “Tell no spirit, but it is true, he is the last Smith.” Archie’s worst secret - the quality of himself that he hated most - his last name. Smith was originated from all the way back to the stone age, and he was the last Smith. He loved that. He was the end of a legend. He was the happy ending. Only one thing was different from him and the end of a story. He wasn’t happy, he was so sad about his life. His mother’s death and burial before he even knew she was gone. His father marrying someone he knew his father hated he just didn’t allow himself to think about her so he tried to find a replacement for someone who couldn’t be replaced. As his spirit faded he tried to grab the hand that was stretched out to him, his mother’s slightly calloused hand. He couldn’t hang onto the spirit trying to save him. The spirit wasn’t his mother. It was his father’s. His father tried to save him from another reality. He had to endure reality, it might not be what he wanted but that is the only thing that was true. He had to know that the last trace of his anything was about to fall into oblivion, he had to know that spirits can die. His father was a great man but he had the same fatal flaw as Percy Jackson from the Percy Jackson series he had read just before he died. Percy cared about his friends more than he should have, just like Archie’s father cared about Archie too much and tried not to let Archie go through hard times. Archie hid from reality in his closet for weeks as long as he could without his father or stepmom getting suspicious. He hid from reality by reading fiction where everything always turns out okay. When there is a happy ending.That is why, even if something is surprising, all of Archie’s sentences ended in periods or question marks. Candyland - Illustration

by Ellie Patton (8th)

The Issue with Dreams By Graham Burmeister (8th) Intellectual dreams toss dark spirits to and fro. Curiosity screams mysterious problems to answer. Dreams haunt the spirit of mercy. Manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mind solves problems and creates darkness.

Go Beyond Fear By Abbey Littrell (8th) May whatever comes not make you fear. Go beyond the fears you know to be founded in irrational things and believe that light Shall put together a path for you. Believe you have a purpose in life to uphold.

Violent Seclusion By Uday Kabirpanthi (8th) Blotted hatred distinguishes among confined spirits, inseparable solitude, violent cruelty, and hatred as time withdrawals. Legibly distinguished by pale flesh and deathly appearance Exist in violent seclusion.

Roadside Attraction - Photography by Isabella Snow (6th)

Disinterest By Hank Ramsey (8th) Years violated the half-full period of sanity. I grew convinced of total failureThe disease of practical uselessness was mine. I dismissed the gesture of self defense, While I was dealing with the blood-red cerebral disease of disinterest.

Mercy By Abbie Carpenter (8th) Terror is an axe glazed by darkness. One blow and you are crushed. You beg mercy of the destroyer Bound by darkness, It strikes anyways.

Two Faced - Mixed Media by Edie Gill (6th)

Glass Chambers By JoAnna Pistotnik (8th) One-hundred glass chambers They hold air, empty useless noise. Fire glows in the horrors of oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own eyes. Two men, unhappy to be alive, stay locked with horror within the panes. The unopened doors can only be opened by the key on the dusty shelf. One, confused by the otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s glance, Looks into the eyes of horror Which ultimately take his useless life away.

Transparency - Glass Sculpture by JoAnna Pistotnik (8th)

Life of a Pencil By McKenna Stump (7th) You think your life is unique? Try being a pencil. That old pencil next to me in the drawer won’t stop sleeping. We haven’t been used in weeks. Nobody uses us anymore. They only use those strange, fly typing typings called a computer. Students don’t care about us anymore. I was once even taken by a dog who chewed me up and left me under the bed. The only thing I can do all day is lay in this crowded junk drawer and remember all of the amazing times I had when people used me. Together, a student and I would write long essays, answers homework questions, take notes in class, and the best things of all PENCIL FIGHTS! I frequently won, but every so often, a mechanical pencil would defeat me. Well, those days are gone. I dream of one day being important again.

His Tone By Anna Bailly (7th) Integrity is a sensitive, dramatic instrument. He pulls my strings, strumming each one. He exaggerates every feeling or thought. He tells me what I want to hear. Finally, he shows me reality.

Above: The Unknown- Photography by Ethan Kabler (8th)

Below: Sole Love - Photography Photo by Edie Gill (6th) Feet by Sonia Richardet (6th)

The Endless Sidewalk By McKenna Stump (7th) Effort is a fretful, dramatic sidewalk. He shows me a path of success, But places places in the way. When I fall down, I feel like everything is crashing down with me. Sometimes, the end seems distant, Like Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never reach it. But then, I rise, And keep heading down the endless sidewalk.

My Name is Growth By Caitlyn Richmond (7th) Growth is a hearty, radical dream. Have a cheery dream will help you grow. You always need to be original, though. Always remember me. I am the one who helps you touch the sky.

Growth By Liesel DeWalt (7th) Growth is a radical, vivid ladder. She holds my hand through life, but sometimes, she lets go. Often, she leaves me to figure out stressful situations on my own, But she comes back to guide me to the top once needed. Then, all at once, she once again lets go, because I have everything to continue alone.

Above: Woodsman - Photography by Mia Hoeflicker (6th)

Below: Paris Lights - Photography by Julia Douglas (8th)

The Strange Garden By Ava Shadid (6th) Synopsis: Three flowers and a bee need to learn how to work together and ask for what they want - not just take. Characters: Rosie the Rose:(F) She has a really bad temper and yells a lot BOB the bee:(M) funny, needs to learn to share. Tulip the Tulip (f) it's not very bright, often asks questions like what does that mean?? Daisy the daisy: (f) she's very smart almost always is seen with a book in hand The Gardener: (Jack/Jill) (M/F) comes on and off watering and tending to the plants. Narrator/Person (M/F) Narrator reads the lines in parentheses (whoever plays this part does both narrator things and person) Setting/Time Period: Garden, modern day, Orlando, Florida ---------(Scene opens in a garden. It’s a very sunny day.Gardener is tending to the plants humming as he goes along. The flowers are frozen as if really flowers.) Gardener: (Pouring water on flowers) Here, you go little flowers drink up. (From off stage comes a voice of the opposite sex - presumably a spouse) Person: (kind) Lunch time, sweety! Gardener: Okay, okay, I'm coming! (Gardener exists stage left. Once Gardener is gone, Daisy looks to see if all is clear.) Daisy: Okay, the gardener is gone! The coast is clear. (Daisy immediately pulls out a book and starts reading. Others come to life.) Tulip: Thank goodness! I'm as stiff as a flower!

Rose: (angrily) ARE YOU KIDDING ME, TULIP? YOU ARE A FLOWER! Daisy: (says without looking up from her book) Rose, remember what I told you. Rose: (trying to breathe through counting) I know, I know. One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten. Daisy: Good. Now keep breathing in and out. Remember, if you get too angry, your thorns will fly everywhere. Tulip: (playing with Rose) Tulip: OOOps a Daisy, someone is still testy. Those anger management classes have clearly not work! (Rose looks furious but continue to silently count. Tulip addresses Daisy) I’m sorry. Hey, Daisy, what's you book called? Daisy: Hairy Otter. It’s about a hairy otter that's a wizard. It’s a little kiddish for my taste but,it is good. Tulip: (clearly confused) What is an otter? Rose: OH MY PETALS, DAISY! Any otter is cearly a fish. Daisy: (catching Rose in a mistake, since she was joking) Ha, Rose! An otter is actually a mammal...AND….starting counting to 10! Rose: NO! I am not going to count to ten! (mumbles to herself) I’m done with that number 10 (Thorns fly everywhere - other flowers duck for cover - but thorns clearly hit Tulip. Rose looks worried.) Tulip: (dramatically as if dying)

Is it my time? Do I really have to go over the rainbow bridge now? Thorns? Why did it have to be thorns that took me down. Goodbye, friends….(cough, cough) I will miss you all….. Daisy: (sternly - thinks Tulip is ridiculous) Tulip. You are fine. You are not dying. Tulip: (snaps back to life) Oh…...nevermind. Rose: (relieved) Okay...I thought I was going to the big house. Whew! (Suddenly - a strange buzzing noise can be heard off stage. The flowers look confused.) Tulip: WHAT IS THAT NOISE?! (More buzzing - even louder now) Daisy: OoooOOOo! (grabbing another book behind her) I recognize that sound from my insect guide. Let’s see… (moving through pages)....let me see…..buzzing…. OH! It's a…………………………………………………… (interrupting - Bob the bee jumps on stage with enthusiasm - everyone looks surprised) Bob: (with confidence and swagger) THAT’S RIGHT! I’m a bee, and my name is Bob. How ya doin’, ladies? Tulip: (not sure about him) Uhm...fine? (Bob starts to knead his hands on Tulip’s petals. She looks not so happy about the whole thing.) Bob: Scuse me, sweetheart. I’m going to pat around here... Tulip: (horrified) WHAT ON EARTH ARE YOU DOING? Bob: (still confident - and not moving) Pollen, sister. It was yours and now it's mine. Sorry if my paws are a bit cold. Been flying from up North, ya know.

(Bob moves on to Rose - starts kneading) Rose: OWWW!!! Get your paws off of me. I’m getting really angry!!!! (starts silently counting to 10) Bob: (arrogant) Easy, Rosie. I’m almost done. Most flowers are thrilled to have me visit them. Tulip: (finally giving up) Keep counting to 10, Rose. I can’t take about blow up of thorns. Rose: (desparate) Curse that number 10! (Rose keeps on counting to ten with eyes closed now. Bob makes his way over to Daisy. She is not going to let this happen.) Daisy: Whoa, B.O.B….. Tulip: (trying to help) It’s not that bad, Daisy. Daisy: Wait. I read in a book last week that the pollen you take from us helps you make honey. Then you make honey from our pollen. You act like it’s all you. Rose: (realizing Daisy is right) Yeah….she’s right. This isn’t right! It’s our pollen. It is not for you. You have no right to take it without our permission. Bob: Woah there, ladies! I do the load of the work for that honey! All you do is sit here, look pretty, and pollen just appears. We take the pollen, wet it, mix it and make honey! Daisy: True, but but this is a partnership. You can’t just walk up to us and take what you want. Rose: ABSOLUTELY NOT! Bob: Ladies, ladies...why all the worry? Bees have been taking pollen from flowers for years without dispute.

Daisy: I believe we need to strike a deal. Bob: (Stubbornly) No. I don't do deals. Daisy: But you haven’t even heard the deal yet. Rose: (angrily) Yeah...and you’re making me mad….and you don’t want to make me mad. 1...2….3…. Bob: (giving up and a bit worried) Fine….fine.

Daisy: (professionally) We gladly give you our pollen each Tuesday, and you make us full partners in your honey enterprise. Bob: Full partner? That is a bit much, isn’t it? Daisy: Full partners or no more pollen. Bob: (defeated - puts hand out to shake) Fine. Daisy: Thank you, Bob. We appreciate you thinking of us as partners. I think we truly deserve it. Tulip: YES! Partners - I am so excited! It’s good to be a partner, right? Rose: Good golly, Tulip! That’s what we’ve been asking for! 1...2...3... Tulip: Gotcha, Rose! HA! (Rose gets madder and madder, and Tulip pushes on last button) Hey, Rose. I have joke for you.

What does our gardener get when he plants kissed in our garden? Rose: (Confused and still angry) WHAT??? Tulip: (smugly) TWO-LIPS! (Rose explodes and thorns go everywhere. Â Everyone ducks.) --LIGHTS OUT--

Nature Expands - Mixed Media by Lilly Willis (8th)

Moon Rise By Dylan Cope (7th) I was low-spirited and on watch-out around the high from garden fence. It is hard to make out how a fortune can shine down the hill. He couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t invest in me, Just six thousand and all. You ask questions about me? There are no answers.

Ripples - 2D Paper Sculpture by Megan Skinner (7th)

Wolfpack A Monologue By Caroline Dedo (7th) You brought this upon yourself. She warned you not to. You could have stopped this whole thing with one word. One thought. One chance. But yet you didn’t. There was no stopping once it started and you knew that all along. What did you seriously think would happen? It was all going to be ok? So tell me, what are we supposed to do now? Everything is gone. Look around us. My parents are dead. You just couldn’t help yourself, until everyone of us are gone. Because you are the ultimate power in this world. What’s your plan now? There is no water left, no food. We are standing in a burning forest. So, tell me. Wha’cha gonna do? Because now we have nothing, absolutely nothing. You broke this world. I hope you're happy with it.You stupid vampires just don’t know what to do with yourselves! At least we know what to do and what not to do. You know what? You are lucky I don’t just come over there and kill you and your friends. Just wait until we get to your leader. You have nothing on us. You have yourself. You guys aren’t a pack or a family. You are just friends, not even that, you are just acquaintances. You just want the same thing. That’s it! That’s it. You guys won. So, if this is what you wanted. For the forests to burn, for us to have no food, for us to die. If we have nothing, what do you think you have? Just look around us. But, wait I forgot, you don’t care! You just want to be the ultimate. You guys think you are so powerful. That you have everything in your hands. That you can just kill off this world and everyone of us. See, that’s where you are wrong. We don’t need anything fancy or the power. We just need each other. We are a wolfpack, a family.

A Known Silence By Sofia Aguiniga (6th) “They are not dangerous,” confided enormous voices. “Don’t be difficult” “I can’t hear you,” announced a low, dry voice.

America By Matthew Janssen (7th)

Thoughts By Rian Gallagher (7th) Stuck with hundreds of thoughts in head. Seeing only red, she so bled. As the end creeps near, She begins to fear, But prepared, ready to leave bed.

Sweet Land of Liberty Oh how nothing can compare Freedom is fought for Built from immigrants and hard workers Tis the greatest country No, you can’t beat America Our Sweet Land of Liberty Thank you, veterans, for fighting for our country. We honor you.

Punk Rock - Mixed Media by Veronica Burdette (7th)

Tomorrow

The Scar

By Cooper Randleas (6th)

By McKenna Stump (7th)

Then shall I see it not too great When the grass does not grow The flowers don’t bloom The sun does not rise The rain does not come And the people do not get along Then shall I see it not too great

The scar that renewed our woe is so deep that everyone will know. The snow starts to fall, while I cry for all. The barren land is white, but darkso dark that light and hope will never start. The scar renews our woe.

Mistakes By Liesel DeWalt (7th) Integrity is a tragic, accidental child. She runs around knowing what’s right and what’s wrong, But she makes many mistakes. She’s not afraid to make them, Because she knows she’ll learn from them.

Left: Mr. Bird - Paper Mache by Costa Veletas (6th)

Right: Roses - Drawing by Abbey Littrell (8th)

Stay By Me - Drawing by Gracie Dedo (7th)

Messages of Love

Top Left: Photo by Julia Douglas (8th) Top Right: Photo by Mia Hoeflicker Middle Left: Photo by Peyton Farber (7th) Middle Right: Photo by Sophie Agha Bottom Left: Photo by Riley Bennett (6th) Bottom Right: Photo by Pranav Reddy (8th)

The stars are gold The moon is full All that you do Is touch my soul - JoAnna Pistotnik (8th)

I know that you love me But Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll stick with being single I know it sounds crazy But I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like to mingle - Jayda Kelly (6th)

Roses are red Violets are blue The center of my world Begins and ends with you - Palmer Farrow (8th)

Broken Heart

Ideals

By Bryson Toubassi (8th)

By Anna Bailly (7th)

Weeping lost soulThe heart broken with no replyI gave you light. You gave me dark silence. I slowly cried, as you walked away.

Beauty is a polluted, complicated memory. Beauty damages the air we breathe the thoughts we think. Beauty webs any ideals into a tangled knot. Beauty leaves me hazy in confusion. Beauty leaves me stranded, falling.

Why? By Hanna Scheck (8th) Solemnly, he glazed over the circumstances before his death. Amazed and careful, he returned to his destroyed note. He fell back upon his weakness. He contemplated several suicide options Before he disappeared. He remained alive, but dead inside as he fell in the hands of fear.

Religion of Time By Tori Dexter (8th) Injuries disappear as time changes. Cruelty associates with hatred, yet he was still alarmedgradually present turns to past, Still time draws on with and without the callous reward of death.

Lazy River - Paper Design by Caitlyn Richmond (7th)

The Magical Dream By McKenna Stump (7th) Comfort is a sensitive, inviting dream. She pulls me into a cloud of softness inviting me into a magical dream. Everything feels okay, and reality is far, far away. Then I return, and I’m back into the world I’ve tried to avoid for all these years.

My Mirage

Perspective of Heaven By Graham Burmeister

By Anna Bailly (7th)

Honor of celebrated silences changed the world. Foggy indifference’s light burned ideas. Death cried remembrance. Words changed God’s visitor’s perspective.

Peace is an accidental, half-conscious dream. It pretends to be there, yet never stays. It reoccurs night after night always a tease of ideals. Just as the light shines through, Reality awakes for another day of way.

Path to Knowledge - Photography

Tell Me

by Olivia Sutton (8th)

Time Troubles By Satvik Kolla (6th)

By Jett Schmidt (6th) “Tell me,” he thought, “Does everybody think?” “Tell me, does nothing get done as long as it’s everything?” “Tell me, if we stop tho think about nothing, would anything start?” “Tell me, is laughing part of joy?” “Tell me, in the end, do we all end up in the same place?” “That’s where I seem to be going anyway.”

Going Tick tick tick tick The name is Tock. His feelings are hurt, and he is overwrought. Tock is a watchdog. His sadness is a conduit for ferociousness. His past is a dark one that he must go back to, Yet he keeps time going forward.

Disappearing By Shreya Reddy (6th)

Wonderful words marvelously wandered An assortment chose individual boxesSome ven sorted themselves into fancy gifts. But a decree pronounced words were beginning to fade unimaginably. Chaos broke out everywhere. No one was safe in a world without words.

Forgiveness By Olivia Sutton (8th) Forgiveness is a desolate, radical dream. The dream is lonely and unsatisfying. You walk alone, holding secrets and grudges. You realize to wake up from this horrible dream, You must learn to forgive. Once you master forgiveness, You start to relax. You open your eyes And suddenly youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re surrounded by others.

Complicated Hands - Mixed Media by Jayda Kelly (6th)

Mist - Drawing by Mia Hoeflicker (6th)

A Girl With a Fake ID By Anna Bailly (7th) I'm a girl with a fake ID. Though most people have gotten to like this ‘me', a girl who is almost twice my age, they seem to like her. I am pretty sure they forgot who I really am. Don't get me wrong this new personification on me isn't totally off, but it's not on, either. It's just not me. And I am getting done, but I'm scared that they won't like this me. Will they, or should I stay behind this plastic mask and flash a card when anyone asks who I am, a card that says “Confident”?

Dark Spirits By Campbell Flemming (8th) The murder failed to shock Detective Pool. Scandal always escaped him. Acids drowned him and kept him from spilling secrets. Fog smothered him with past fears. The funeral muffled the town’s life without him. The melted conclusions renewed finality of Detective Pool’s death.

Amen By Tori Dexter (8th) Brisk wind flicked the faces of the conscious, as the garden suddenly swept down the streets. Dust lashed London, barring the trees and anguish of them in spite of God. The irregular voices entered the pavement followed by the broken and spoke, “Amen.”

Double Barrel

There She Sits

By Judah Hansen (7th)

By Anna Bailly (7th)

Wagons and rigs are ranged about. The collect around approaching further. One pulls forward as a bearded elder steps out and into view. He approache me, a weapon slung over his shoulder. He slowly raises the double barrels and moves toward me step by trudging step. Click Click Bang. Wagons and rigs are ranged about.

Salt tears form in her eyes The taste of iron on her lips as they fall The burn of alcohol dripping down her skin The sour memories in her spoiled mind Unable to go, yet unable to stop She still sits there Empty Blank Salt tears in her eyes

The Last Minute By Stephanie Liu (8th) Do you think about the last minute of your life? Will you become an angel in the sky? Will you come back to see your friends? Do not cry. You will see them again in years to come.

The Whisper By Anna Bailly (7th) I watch him as he skims along. He walks on the beach, moonlight and all. His footprints gently press into the sand. I feel the creased in his cold hands The soft press of his lips on my cheek. He whispers before he walks away. I watch him as he skims along.

Diamond Eyes - Mixed Media by Cyan Rose (7th)

Water By Garret Jensen (7th) I was dead, Or I would be soon. The moon restored on me, As the water rose fast. What a good death.

The Creek By Lawson Trimmell (7th) I was a-swingin down the creek. They were followin’ me. I tool my things and ran. Maybe it’s him. I peeped out the water. I knowed it was him.

The Boy By Campbell Flemming (8th) “I will do the impossible. Your son will be transferred to the Guards.” The punishments and beatings that his son escaped were innumerable. They did not cease. His time would come. The boy could not outrun an entire force of police. Lost, the boy began to hear the wail of sirens approaching him. All he could so was run. There were too many officers for him to avoid. They thought he was just a weak, little boy, but they were proved wrong as his fists collided with their faces. The momentum of his curled fingers sent them flying. Looks of socks and fear spread across their faces. The tables had turned.

Square in the Eyes By Jennifer Brosius, Liesel Dewalt, Katy Dickinson, and Claire Sturm (7th) Beauty is an idealistic, fortified teacher. She reminds me daily of my shortcomings. She looks at my thighs and laughs at me in disgust. She pokes and prods at me and waits for me to cry. I look her square in the eyes and remind her that beauty is on the inside. She slinks back into the shadows of shame.

I’m Happy, Really, I’m Happy - Photography by Ava Jacobson (7th)

The Third-Floor Bedroom By Matthew Rao (6th) The cool morning breeze flies into my room. I sit up, wishing last night never happened, hoping it wasn’t true. I wish and wish, focusing on my beautiful wallpaper, which is covered with elegant doves. I am just hoping that it never happened. My eyes shut, holding in all of my tears, I wish one more time and opened my eyes. That’s when I notice something strange. One of the birds is missing. I sat on my lumpy mattress wondering why it wasn’t there. I blink again, and suddenly, there is a crumpled piece of paper on my windowsill. I get out of bed, saunter over to the windowsill, and pick up the paper. I unravel it and it says, “It all began when someone left the window open.” What is that supposed to mean? I think about it as I get ready for school. As I walk to school, I wish one more time. Please, I thought. Please, tell me father is safe. All I want is a sign. I repeat these sentences in my head. I think about what happened last night. Remembering tears flowing down my face as Father prepared to leave for the military. As I think about everything that happened, a dove swoops in and drops a note. The dove looks exactly like the one on my wallpaper. I pick up the note and there is a series of lines and dashes on it. Morse code! I quickly translate it and I smile. Father tells me everything is fine, and I relax knowing he was safe. I hummed as I walked the rest of the way to school. As I get my items from my locker, I hear a familiar voice. “Hey Ellie!” I turn around and grin. “Hey Lucas, how is your day so far?” I reply. “Good, how about you?” “It’s fine. I am going to homeroom, but I will see you at lunch.” Lucas wheels away, as I head off in the opposite direction. In homeroom, I think about Lucas. He is a paraplegic, meaning he is paralyzed from his waist down. He was in a car crash when he was younger. Then, I think about the dove I saw earlier. I think it is a little strange, but I soon forget about it. At lunch, Lucas and I sit alone, but I pretend to not notice. Most kids in school don’t want to sit with a wheelchair-bound boy. I talk to Lucas some more, wanting to tell him about the dove, but before I know it, lunch is over. When I get home, I say hello to mother, and I quickly dash up the stairs, and fling myself onto my bed. This is when I wish for something else. I wish I will make a friend tomorrow, I think. I blink once, and a dove sails out of my window. Slowly, my head turns toward the wallpaper. Two birds are now missing. I gasp, knowing this could not be a coincidence. Tomorrow, I will find out if it is true. I wake up the next morning, excited to see if I will actually make a friend today. I immediately get dressed for school, and I sprint faster than the wind down the stairs. On the counter there is a packet of sunflower seeds. I grab them, along with my backpack, and I go to school. A dove flies with me as I munch on sunflower seeds. I feed it some, and for some reason, I decide to stop by Lucas’s house. He comes out of his garage as I walk by. “Hi-ya, Ellie!” Lucas says. “Howdy! I figured I would walk with you to school.” I state. “Fine by me!” He replies. As I walk, the dove that I saw earlier appears. I decide to name the dove Angel. Lucas is talking about his book report as I feed Angel the last of my sunflower seeds. Then, Lucas begins to talk about his science report. What can I say? He is a very smart kid. Lucas finishes talking about his science report, and tells me, “You know she likes you, right?” “She does?” “Yeah, it’s kind of obvious.” We arrive at school, and Lucas pops a wheelie. We split up, and I head over to my locker and it hits me! Of course, I wished to make a friend, and I did! That’s why Angel was following me. I daydream in all of my classes, and I wonder what to wish for next. The week flies by as I make wishes. I wish for selfish things like to be popular, or have the new designer dress. On Thursday night, I am at my desk, working on a math equation when I notice there is one bird left on the wall. I know I have to make this last wish count. I think long and hard until finally, I have the perfect wish. I make one last wish, and I close my eyes. I open my eyes in just enough time to see the dove gracefully flutter out the window. The next morning, when I arrive at school, I go straight to Lucas. “Walk for me.” I command And so he does.

Twins - Photography by Peyton Farber (7th)

Love

The Wisdom of 3 Monkeys - Photography by Ari Barmor (8th)

By Anna Bailly (7th) I thought you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave so soon. For the one I loved to the moon. Reflection so fine. A body devine. Our love like a deadly typhoon.

Black Hole By Janna Wagner (7th) Excellence is a polluted, accidental memory. It is an ever-ending black hole. Time ticks away as I wait, Sitting still trying to climb out. I hear tales of light, yet it never comes for me.

Him By Ellie Patton (8th) The foul voice burst with brute force down the corridor. It swung like an axe through the silence. Twitching with terror, the voice strained against the stillness of the punishing darkness. I tiptoed and dressed in the darkness. The man peered, looking upon me. Mercy.

Found

Snow

By Stephanie Lu (8th)

By Cooper Randleas (6th)

Down the hill we go. Everything is wonderful Fresh air Flying bird The beautiful weather a gift From the wind Suddenly, I hear a cry What happened? A small boy Lost Don’t worry We will travel together Down the hill we go

“Father, who makes it snow?” I ask my father who sits upon the couch, holding a photo of mother. A tear rolling down his cheek, “I don’t know. I am sorry, but I just don’t know.” Away from him I walk, tired and trying to be happy. I think about mother. How happy she was, But now she is gone. The tear comes and will not stop. Returning to father, I wrap my arms around him am state. “Perhaps mother makes it snow.”

Confined - Drawing by Lilly Willis (8th)

Stop Complaining By Mimi Recalde-Phillips (8th) The closed cabinet in his mind had broken loose. Every pure and strange cry lived there. At his expense, the thoughts went flying with no importance to anyone else. For the sake of man, we mustn't drug others with useless complaints.

Confirmed - Mixed Media by Anna Bailly (7th)

Health By Matthew Janssen (7th) Health is a sensitive, complicated experiment. There are still undiscovered ways to perform operations. Every move has to be perfect. If anything goes wrong, death will come â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;round. No one is guaranteed life.

Dash - Paper Mache by Caroline Jiang (8th)

Ombre Dream - Mixed Media by Abbey Littrell (8th)

Strange Forest - Drawing

Morning Magic - Photography

by Alex Boone (6th)

One Gesture by Gracie Dedo (7th) The visitor made a gesture with her hand, showing the eager man he was not wanted. He cased her beauty through the ghastly hallways. A cold shaking hand grasped the edge of her dress’s fabric. No words were exchanged Only a single hand gesture once again. The man fell to his knees with the memory of her scent seering into his brain as the visitor left.

by Mia Hoeflicker (6th)

Death by Garret Jensen (7th) I was at a funeral Of a long time friend. The room smelt of grief The loud unforgiving sound Of family members crying Filling my ears. I, however Couldn’t bring myself to cry. No matter how hard I tried, Nothing would happen, I knew her most of my life And now that she’s dead, I couldn’t even cry I felt awful. Her mother speechless, in shock. Her father, trying to stay strong, but sobbing nonetheless. I felt like a monster.

The Baby By Anna Bailly (7th) My young baby laid too lifeless. She laid still in her sheer white dress. For she left too fast. We live in the past. She was gone, her mom now a mess.

Lurking Darkness By Uday Kabirpanthi (8th)

Ciel - Drawing

One cold, evil, masked murderer lurked. A creature, queer and in peril, hid in shadows alone and summoned by terror. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Quick is fear lurking upon you beyond the laboratory door,â&#x20AC;? he whispered.

by Gracie Dedo (7th)

The Break of Sanity By Graham Burmeister (8th) Drugged minds deceive duties of puzzled circumstances. The cry of murder protests sanityDigging open crates of undaunted torture. Eagerness of alteration becomes heart

Harmony By Cooper Randleas (6th) Harmony is a thoughtful, idealistic sidewalk. She takes me down the path. The trees are painted thoughtfully. The idealistic place radiates with beauty. That is, until I reach the end.

A Map to Me By Anna Bailly (7th)

Bite of Summer - Mixed Media by Sonia Richardet (6th)

Forgiveness is a rude, dramatic map. It is an adventure of emotion A step by step journey into an inner fight. It tugs your mind to the left and your heart to the right. It is a one-way stop to tears.

Music By Caroline Dedo (7th) There once was a tiny jukebox Stuck in a web of chains and locks Unable to move Nobody could groove The boys and girls now forced to talk.

Batman By Logan Gillespie (7th) There once was as man with a mask. Everyday he had a task. To save his city, Even the kitties, He could never be in a cast.

Silence By Addie Stultz (8th) Force was enough blame. Escape and go. It was dark Tossing light until they waited solemnly, the stillness broken. A whisper. A break. An enemy to rest. Blood shed. A heart. “Tell me differently, lost soul.” “My heart, I have wept too.”

Behind the Walls of Deceit By Katy Dickinson (7th) Comfort is a putrid, intolerant memory. This body-less thought provides false hope and spreads ignorance. Yet, my mind accepts it like a warm blanket. They all conform to this “comfort” that keeps them happy and blind. They think blindness is better than fear And cower behind a wall of deceit.

Sickness Sours By McKenna Stump (7th) Our cares are behind, and our hearts ahead, The children play while mother is in bed. As the days and weeks pass, They are certain she will die. She is sicker by the hour. The bread at her bedside begins to sour. Our cares are behind, and our hearts ahead.

Yesterday’s Lunch - Photography by Katlyn Harman (8th)

Seven By Liesel DeWalt (7th) I pay seven cents for death. He looks me in the eyes Six lonesome minutes. He hung me by my pride Five hanging trees Four sweating cuts Three little candles Two slipping hands One eternity of silence.

Confidence By Michial Argotsinger (8th) I admit that I am confident, But I have terror in my soul. I admit, I exaggerate my importance, but too many other fellows doubt themselves. I insist on an explanation from them.

Silhouette - Painting

by Kate Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Malley (7th)

Hearts - Photography

Kisses - Photography & Digital Manipulation

by Mia Hoeflicker (6th)

by Jett Schmidt (6th)

Prairie Walks By Jayda Kelly (6th) Open I wander in the light of day. As tall golden broomsticks show me the way. I swim deeper into the bright shining seas With a low key whistle and twitch to guide me. There surely must be an end to this all Where mouse meets the snake, And yet the snake must soon fall.

Blank Words By Gene Campini (7th)

Happiness by Arianna Hinson (7th) This happiness is not for you. This happiness is for him, for her, for them, and none has been saved for you. You can hold graciousness, lovingness. You can redeem yourself. Happiness spreads like a plague, but you are immune.

The man handed him several papers. The man watched the master as he read the first words. The Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faced went from clam to terror as her read the page. The air crisp and still, the master sweat as if something was imminent. The Master screamed a high pitched shrill. The Master stumbled out of his chair and ran for the door. The man tried to hold him back - calm him down, but there was no stopping The Master. The Master sprinted down the hall. The man turned back to see what caused such a reaction. The pages were blank.

The Pill

Unlucky By Grace Martin (7th)

By Caroline Dedo (7th)

There once was a downward horseshoe. It didn’t like to be so blue. People avoided Others destroyed it But his bad luck was an issue.

There once was a red and white pill And a girl on a window sill Debating her life Threatened with a knife Her meds would help her with the kill

Romance By Jayda Kelly (6th) You said you wouldn’t leave me yet But truly I wouldn’t dare bet You brought me flowers In heaps, heaps, and towers And now I’m left with regret

I am Only a Child By Anna Bailly (7th) I'm only a child. I don't know anything. I still believe in fairies and magic. For goodness sake, I still think that I will get a happy ending, the most childish thought I have ever had. I thought my prince would come and save from all the horrors in life. He would sweep me off my feet, and it would be love at first sight. Ha! I know, what was I thinking? The thought of it makes me laugh,me and a decent guy. There is always tomorrow, and the next day and the one after that. Who am I kidding, that never works, at least not in the last twelve years of my life. But, I'll look forward to the day the dream comes true, the truth. It'll happen eventually, I hope.

Dangerous Game - Photography by William Wolverton (6th)

The Rise By Luke Novak (7th) Speed slackens, now I float. I race down the hill of green. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean to go that fast, so I am afloat. I rise in the air. I give my brother quite a fright. He calls out to my mother in a panicked tone. She looks on the hill, But she cannot see me, Because I fly high above her. Speed slackens, now I float.

Wings By Stephanie Lu (8th) If I had a wing, Oh how I would fly. I would fly so high, If I had a wings. I would be a hero, And try to help people. Sadly, this will never be. No hero. No wings. No heights.

The Journey- Photography by Katlyn Harman (8th)

Fallen - Mixed Media by Graham Burmeister (8th)

Grandparents by Isabella Snow (6th) I am getting older, Grandparents, and hugs and kisses may not come as freely as when I was little. I want you to know that I love how you cook my lunch, take out time in your day for me, and how you love me SO MUCH! I always appreciated when you read to me and used to take naps with me. I am grateful for the presents you give me on Christmas and my birthday. I enjoy when we do things together, like watching TV and going to the park. I think you are awesome, because you love me, and I love you more. Thank you for watching me all the time, being there for me and loving me. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a hug and a kiss from me. Love, Isabella

Images of Spring

Top Left: - Digital Photography by Olivia Ablah (6th)

Top Right: - Digital Photography by Kaity McEntaffer (6th)

Bottom Left: - Digital Photography by Riley Bennett (6th)

Bottom Right: - Digital Photography by Lauren Schmeidler (6th)

Mr. Linden’s Library By Sai Satvik Kolla (6th) Prologue: It was a dark, cool night in the town of Monroe, Louisiana. The trees silently drifted back and forth in the cool breeze. Usually, around this time, children would be in there beds, and adults maybe would have sat down for their late coffee of a glass of deep red wine. However, one person was still wide awake. His name was Mr. Linden. There were rumors flying around about this man. Some said that he could enchant people through his so called “magical” books, sometimes in good ways and sometimes in not so good ones. Mr. Linden was only awake this long because he was looking for a single house. He picked up his binoculars and peered through his treehouse window. He found the house he was looking for, the house with the girl. The girl had taken the book. The book that was a conduit of ultimate destruction. He was still feeling guilty with himself. Why had he let her take the book? Why had he let her take the book? Why had he just stood there and done nothing? Then he saw a flash through a second floor window. It had begun! He raced down the steps and ran towards the house like a human cheetah. Even after all this tension, a feeling still pounded in his heart. Guilt. He had warned her about the book. Now it was too late. Chapter 1: Gray and Cooper Grunsky were perfect siblings in every way. They had similar tastes, were both very intelligent, and liked each other more than anything else on Earth. Today, they were feeling really elated. It was summer! Cooper had just had his last day of eighth grade while Gray had just had her last of her sophomore year. Both of them were so excited! They raced into their house bursting with joy. “ It’s summer!” Gray exclaimed. “ What should we do?” Cooper asked. After lots of thinking they decided they should go to Mr. Linden’s Library. The siblings had always liked that place. It was located in the woods in eight giant tree houses. There were four trees positioned like in the corner of a square, and Mr. Linden had decided to build two large tree houses to each tree, to put books inside of them. It wasn’t just a library, you could also rent videos, have meetings about projects with your friends, do research with computers inside the Genius Lab Tree House, and buy different objects used for exploration in the woods. Cooper had gotten his treasured binoculars from Mr. Linden. Cooper had also gotten his backpack, shoes, and many other items from Mr. Linden collection of exciting goodies. Sometimes Cooper believed that Mr. Linden truly had magical powers. How else could Cooper’s backpack always be so light, even when it was filled with heavy textbooks and notebooks. How else could his binoculars focus two miles away, if they were just regular, everyday binoculars? Cooper was pondering about all this while they were walking to the library. He looked at Gray, she was looking ahead, looking like she was thinking about what to collect when they got there. Cooper knew what she wanted to check out. He knew she was thinking about all those books. Gray loved books. Cooper liked reading too, but definitely not as much as Gray. If Cooper would have chosen between playing on his PlayStation 4 or reading a book, Cooper would choose playing his PlayStation 4. Gray, however, would definitely choose books. Books were Gray’s video games. She could read 500 page books in two hours. Cooper remembered last year when she had gotten Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard Book 1: The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan from the library. A 500 page book, and she wiped it out in two hours. Cooper smiled. It made him glad that he knew his sister so well. Then Gray stopped to a halt. Cooper looked in front of him. They had arrived. Chapter 2: Gray couldn’t wait. She ran to the ladder and climbed up, with Cooper behind her. She went immediately to the science section. Cooper said he would be exploring around for a bit, so Gray let him go and started to search for books about botany. Botany. Gray loved botany. She loved it from the moment she saw all the plants in the woods in Monroe. They had just moved to Monroe from Wichita, Kansas two years ago. Even though Gray felt sad about leaving all her old friends, she made new friends just as quickly when she arrived in the new city. And, of course Gray loved the woods. She loved the ways the flowers were so colorful, almost like they were the paintings of life. She loved the ways the trees silently drifted in the breeze so peacefully, almost like they were singing a song about green nature. While Gray was searching for some book, she found one, that somehow, intrigued her because of the title. Botany: A Musical Science. Gray picked the book up. Gray didn’t know why, but she resonated with the book. It seemed that the author thought about botany the same way she did. Gray picked up a few other books, and went to find Cooper. He was in the fiction section, finding some works to entertain himself. The sibling went to stand in line to check out their books. Mr. Linden, surprisingly, was checking out books today. He usually was never at the library, he had another job, so he left his staff to take care of things. As she waited in line, Gray observed Mr. Linden. He was about in his late twenties or early thirties. He was tall and always had a big bright smile on his face. Gray knew about the so called “rumors”. She didn’t care about them. All she cared about was that she could get books here, and that the library remained open for a long time, so that she could always get books whenever she needed them. As they got to the counter, Mr. Linden smiled. “ Hello my dears,” Mr. Linden said. “ Are you having a nice day?” “ Yes sir thank you,” Gray responded. When Mr. Linden checking out the books, he suddenly froze when he saw the book, Botany: A Musical Science. “ Gray, you can’t take this book with you,” Mr. Linden said darkly. “ The results would be terrible.” “ I don’t believe in those silly things,” Gray said back coldly. She didn’t care how rude she was being, or that Mr. Linden was older. All she wanted was the book. “ I don’t think we should take that book Gray,” said Cooper, terrified from behind her. Of course Cooper would say that. He was such a pain sometimes, actually believing the rumors. “ I don’t care!” Gray said a little too loudly. Some other people turned their heads in her direction. Gray ignored them. “ All I want is this book and if you don’t want the police questioning you about depriving a minor the freedom to read, you better hand it over!”

Mr. Linden gulped. He slowly put the book inside her bag and handed it to her. As he started checking out Cooper’s books Gray stood there fuming. This man was crazy! When they got outside, Gray managed to repel Cooper’s taunts about the fact that she acted so rudely to Mr. Linden. Gray managed to block them by thinking about the rumors. He’s mad, she told herself. He’s mad. Chapter 3: As soon as they arrived at the house, Cooper ran up the stairs and started his PlayStation 4. It was all he could do to prevent himself from raging and storming at Gray. Didn’t she know how to respect people? Mr. Linden was very respect worthy. Apart from running the library, Mr. Linden also was the head of the physics department at the University of Louisiana. He was one of the most respected people in the state! What a sissy Gray was! Cooper played Destiny, his favorite video game until dinner, and by that time his anger seemed to have subsided. His parents were going out for dinner today, so the siblings were on their own. After he ate dinner, he slowly went back upstairs and resumed playing. Cooper played until about midnight, until finally he decided to go to bed. He started reading a mystery novel, Sherlock Holmes: A Study in Scarlet. Just as he was reaching an important cliffhanger, he heard a sudden crashing noise from Gray’s room! Cooper leaped out of bed and went to see what was going on. He couldn’t believe his eyes. Gray room was a hurricane. Her bed was overturned, the lamp shattered, chest broken. Then Cooper saw it. The book was lying open on the floor, and he knew Mr. Linden had been right. Chapter 4: Gray didn’t get it. Why did people believe in such, unrealistic things? Uggh! Gray pondered about the possibility that Mr. Linden got hit on the head by a heavy book when he was a kid, and it made him psycho. Instead of Cooper, who went straight to playing his video games, Gray got out some of her books and started reading. She didn’t read the “book”, because she wanted to save the best for last. She quietly went down for dinner after finishing a book and a half, then went back up and started reading more. Finally, she had finished three books, and was itching to open the “book”, so she got it out and started reading. The barely before she finished the first sentence, it hit her. The overwhelming drowsiness. Gray immediately fell into a coma. Then the book went to work. Moss leaped out of its pages, destroying the room. They grabbed Gray, and she went in. Chapter 5: Cooper stood there, in absolute fear and silence. He didn’t know what to do. Then Mr. Linden smashed through the glass and came through the first floor window. Cooper couldn’t help but think, nice timing for a dramatic entrance. “ Quick Cooper!” he said. “ Go get your gear!” Mr. Linden carefully closed the book and put in his bag. Cooper didn’t need telling twice. He quickly got his gear and his bag, and ran back with Mr. Linden to go back to the library. “ You really have magic powers with a magical library?” Cooper asked Mr. Linden with astonishment. “ I’m surprised you haven’t figured that out by now Cooper.” Mr. Linden responded as they were climbing up the ladder. They quickly went inside and Mr. Linden set the book on his work table. There were many different instruments there, a gold astrolabe, a telescope, and many other things that Mr. Linden could have created with his magic. Even in the present situation Cooper marveled at the man. He was amazing! Mr. Linden brought out another book, titled Countering Curses. He flipped the pages until he nodded, and it seemed that he found what he was looking for. “ Do you know where Gray is Mr. Linden?” asked Cooper. “ Gray is currently residing inside this book it seems,” he answered calmly. How could he be so calm? Gray was in really bad danger! Cooper prayed that Mr. Linden found a solution to this. Then, Mr. Linden put his hand on the cover of the book, muttered a few words Cooper couldn’t really catch, and took his hand away. The book fell of the desk and immediately turned into a wooden door. Cooper didn’t need to be told on what to do. He slowly opened the door and stepped into a new world. Chapter 6: Gray couldn’t believe it. Why was she such a big mouth? You refuse to listen to advice, and then you get abducted by plants! The plant still carried her by her waist. Even in the circumstances, Gray had to admit that the place, sorry, book was beautiful. Every type of plant she could imagine surrounded her. This should have been Gray’s dream. It wasn’t however, because Gray had the feeling she was going to be turned into plant food. The plant held her tight with a grip as hard as iron. Then she heard them jingling in her pocket. The keys. The keys to the house. Gray grabbed them and poked the plant as hard as she could. The plant managed to drop her and she hit the ground running for her life, and nowhere in particular. She was just praying that Cooper and Mr. Linden could find her. Then a plant suddenly stretched out and tripped her. She fell, but got up only to look at the looming mass of a huge plant. A predator plant. Gray closed her eyes and braced herself as the plant readied itself to strike. Chapter 7: “ Gray!” Cooper cried. “ Gray, Gray!” He ran frantically around, trying to find her. He used his binoculars. Then he saw her. He also saw the predator plant. Cooper didn’t know what to do, until he remembered something. He got out his pocketknife and threw it at the plant. It didn’t do much damage, but it bought Cooper and Mr. Linden time. Enough time to grab Gray and leave. They quickly ran hard back to the door and jumped through, and landed in Gray’s room. Mr. Linden destroyed the door with a quick flick of his hand. Then the three of them found Cooper and Gray’s parents staring at them, with really wide eyes. There was a moment of silence… then Cooper spoke up. “ Gray you should explain,” he said. “ It started with you.” Gray smiled, and that’s when Cooper knew he had the best sister in the whole entire world.

My Brain - Mixed Media by Alex Boone (6th)

Maybe if I knew I was Beautiful…

Smoke You Out

By Abigail Carpenter (8th)

By Mimi Recalde-Phillips (8th)

Maybe if I knew I was beautiful I wouldn’t hide the sunlight of my true personality Behind curtains made of insecurities and filters Maybe if I knew I was beautiful I wouldn’t hide the colors of my true face Under thick layers of suffocating foundation Maybe if I knew I was beautiful I wouldn’t quiet the sound of my own voice Smaller than the others talking over me Maybe if I knew I was beautiful I wouldn’t feel the need to try to be

I opened up to you, the way you opened your box of cigarettes You were my drug and I was yours You lit me up then smoked every last feeling out of me After that you threw me out I was left helpless like the others How was I stupid enough to fall for this To fall for you

My Life - Mixed Media by JoAnna Pistotnik (8th)

Strength By Olivia Sutton (8th) Fear is a vivid, dramatic sidewalk. It is easy to drift over onto it. We all end up on the sidewalk at times. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the strong people who manage to walk off of it.

The Songbird - Paper Mache Sculpture by Jett Schmidt (6th)

The Head

Time

By Grace Martin (7th)

By Rian Gallagher (7th)

There once was a head full of hair For a body, it did not care So she cut it off With one hearty chop And decided to roll everywhere

Along the willows in the wood drawing time Nobody there to ask questions A place of trust Now, painting vines As my eyes drop Laying down I sleep A sleep where I will not wake Left in time

The Journey Light in Darkness By Caitlyn Richmond (7th)

By Dylan Cope (7th)

I was in the woods smoke rolling thunder coming lightning building Old man standing there Next morning Nothing Only a light miles away

The shade was running over me. The canoe drifted around in the sky. “It’s midnight,” he said tramping around the clock tower. ‘Sted of going in the woods, I sat in drawing birds with guns. We left for breakfast, following him. We trotted behind in the horse of the man in black. Following Following Trotting Following.

Venus

Her

By Ava Jacobsen (7th)

By Janna Wagner (7th)

Peace is a loquacious, generous aftershock. She comes in hours of need, Always after hate and hurt, Coming with love and kindness.

Arrogance is a curious, musty aftershock. She always afflicts word of honesty on me. She hides behind a facade of disgust. The way she pleases herself, Always makes me hate myself more Curiously behind the mask.

Blue Bear - Mixed Media by Mason McCormick (6th)

Rauuugh! - Glass by Judah Hansen (7th)

Upper Left: Strolling, Photography & Digital Manipulation, Rian Gallagher (7th) Upper Right: If the Shoe Fits, Photography & Digital Manipulation, Sonia Richardet (6th) Lower Left: She Lived in a Shoe, Photography & Digital Manipulation, Sonia Richardet (6th) Lower Right: Chill, Photography & Digital Manipulation, Mason McCormick (6th)

The Slave

Da Food Monster

by Hadasa Barmor (6th)

by Vijay Muthukumar (7th)

From the window A pair of eyes Staring down into your soul Not stealing Always burrowing Not an execution, but an informal death Always a slave

This is my body. I´ll start from the bottom And work my way up. My feet, pork What else would they be? They have the little piggies. My legs, spaghetti Long and Weak. My stomach, a sandwich It must have food in it. It will collapse With a single strike. Don´t even think About punching me. My back, a celery stalk Thick and hard to break But seriously Still no punching. My arms, jelly Extremely weak Don´t get any ideas. My neck, a hamburger It has many layers. My mouth, a samosa It can hold a lot! But, please No food contests My nose, a tomato Releasing red liquid My eyes, meatballs Big and Brown My eyebrows, fuzz on peaches Fun to brush A finger against My ears, pitted plums Squishy with a hole My hair, thin strand of bacon Long and wavy That is my body. Tho body of DA FOOD MONSTER!

Rachelle By Rian Gallagher (7th) There once was a girl named Rachelle. Happy she was with her new shell. She tripped on her boot Went down with a hoot Then she hit her head on a bell.

Beautiful World - Mixed Media by Logan Gillespie (7th)

Three Muses - Photography & Digital Manipulation by Rian Gallagher (7th)

Her Love By Ari Barmor (8th) She gazed upon the endless ocean, and breathed in the fresh air. Climbing up to the top of the mast, she looked down. Her crew looking like ants. She felt powerful. She felt strong. She closed her eyes, and relaxed. A heavy gust of wind blew her off the mast. She fell the, she fell the never ending fall. She hit the ground. She woke up, with no crew, just the broken boat and her. She got up, and tears came to her eyes. They burned as they crawled down her face. A rush of anger filled her body. She lost everything she had. She lost the one thing she loved. She gazed upon the endless ocean, desperately trying to find land. Giving up her hope, and her life, she jumps.

I-m-a-g-i-n-a-t-i-o-n! - Mixed Media by Ava Jacobsen (7th)

Upper Left: Selfie - Photography & Digital Manipulation, by Katlyn Harmon (8th) Upper Right: Selfie - Photography & Manipulation, by Charlie Daood (6th) Lower Left: Selfie - Photography & Manipulation, byIsabella Snow (6th) and Edie Gill (6th) Lower Right: Selfie - Photography & Manipulation, by Mia Hoeflicker (6th)

Worry By Cooper Randleas (6th) Worry is a somber, complicated aftershock. He arrived right after the accident, And took me over as I tried to break away. He started pulling me closer, Until he finally completed his task.

Stop. Do Nothing Else. Maybe. By Judah Hansen (7th) Worry is an inviting, fretful lesson. You learn to not learn. You try to try nothing. It stops you from doing everything. It freezes you in a deep fear of having regrets.

Infinity - Photography by Peyton Farber (7th)

Underwater Snail - Block Print by Megan Skinner (7th)

Swim Instructor A Monologue by Caitlyn Richmond (7th) Kids, am I right? They never listen. I tell them to do the backstroke and what do they do? The butterfly. I am not hard on them. They are 9-years-old. They need to suck it up and do what I tell them. They take too much time out of their day crying. They’re like, “Ni-ni-ni-cole, I can’t do this. I need a break.” I’m like, “Whatever, your parents are paying me to teach you.” Actually, their parents are so cheap. Their all like, “I have 5 kids and a car loan, so can I just pay you $5?” Uggg.... I’m saving up for these really cute pink wedges. They are to die for. So I’m all like, “Sorry but I need the money.” So the parent starts crying and then the kid starts crying. I just say, “Jump in the pool!” The parents thanks me and then leaves without paying me at all. Then I’m stuck with some bratty kid who pees in the pool. I have to clean the whole pool and still teach the kid to swim. The kids I teacher are not even grateful for the time I put into helping them. Literally, all the do is splash my perfectly curled hair with water. I can’t wait until this summer is over. The kids complain to me that their legs hurt, well, my head hurts from all fo them. After their session is up, they go whining to their parents. Wait, is that a parent complaining to my boss? They both look angry. Oh, no. My boss is coming over toward me. No, please, I need this job. I’ll do anything to keep this job. Hey, I know, I’ll teach the toddlers! Please! I need this job for the 3 months left of summer. It’s only been a day. I can do better.

Perfect

by Claire Sturm (7th)

There was once a perfect world. No one was hating or judging or perfect and most of all, they were filled with love. In my world, hatred is everywhere. I try to impress people that don’t matter and am judged on my looks. My height, my weight, and my ability. Those are the only things people see in me. I build myself up, just to greeted by another person tearing me down. I’m used to the process by now. I cry a river as things build up inside of me. When another match strikes, the fire inside me begins to rage. Perfect, that’s a funny word.

Starboard - Mixed Media by Judah Hansen (7th)

My Body by Garret Jensen (7th) My dreams, like spaghetti. All tangled and messy with no end, but still appealing. My brain, is pasta. Nothing matches together and is all over the place, but still manages to work. My heart, like fried chicken. Hard, crispy on the outside, hard to break into, and soft and warm on the inside. My anxiety is a bag of chips. While it’s bad for me I often find myself indulging in it. My fear is like ramen. Easy to overcome when it’s alone, but overwhelming when put all together. My hopes are soda. Bubbling throughout my veins and pushing me through the next obstacle. I am a sandwich. Many pieces of something smaller to put together To make something greater.

Together Forever You Said

Betrayal

by Caitlyn Richmond (7th)

by Sophie Agha (6th) Friendship laughs from a distance. Her betrayal showed me that. The light always comes in as soon as the darkness creeps into the shadows. Her betrayal taught me that. Just when I thought it was over, I learned it had just begun. Her betrayal was my teacher. Because of her, I am a new person.

Sideways Stairs - Photography by Ava Shadid (6th)

Rain drops they fall from the cloud together, but somewhere between the cloud and the ground the broke apart. The one raindrop finds a new puddle and you’re left wondering what you did.

Connections -Mixed Media by Jillian Capps (7th)

Storm Front By Graham Burmeister (8th) Wind rustles through fields of wheat A storm seems to be approaching Drought has destroyed fields of corn and buffalo have died of dehydration This storm has been predicted to end that problem Indian tribes have danced around fires to make the rain come The clouds begin to form The sky begins to darken Clouds begin to make the sky rumble Except this wasn’t rain It was unexpected They destroyed the crops They ate all the grass and created a wasteland Grasshoppers cover every inch of land destroying what has taken months to form The year is 1874 and a grasshopper plague has just destroyed all the crops of Kansas

Liar - Photography by Peyton Farber (7th)

#3 by Garret Jensen (7th) My middle name, while rather uninteresting, is unique in a sense. It means “3” in Spanish. It feels worse than 2. At least if I was #2, then I'd be runner-up. But no. I’m bronze, the least important. Perhaps, the solution, is to work harder. Become #1 any way I know how and make them remember the kid who went from #3 to #1.

Peppers in the Sun - Drawing by Kate O’Malley (7th)

Tuttle the Turtle - Photography by Mia Hoeflicker (6th)

Watch Me Fly - Ink on Canvas by JoAnna Pistotnik (8th)

Vines By Avery Boydston (7th) Untamed strands of flowing spaghetti. Always looking down, depressed. The wind raises their spirits, freeing them from gravity. The taste of dirt and shampoo. Looks like darkened cookies out of an oven or fresh swiss cheese.

The Swamp By Arianna Hinson (7th) My life is like a swamp. At first, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to swim through, But then, the mud, gathers on the bottom and grabs my feet. My arms are weary, and I struggle. To stay above water, I give up and sink. Turns out, the mud isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as bad as I thought.

Bones & Limbs - Digital Photography by Ava Shadid (6th)

Bad Day - Mixed Media by Grace Martin (7th)

In the Books By Rian Gallagher (7th) She read, long days, spared time. emotions of love , much thought. brave adventures, smooth paths. She sits timeless, No thoughts, Crooked path, Still looking, But not finding.

Devastation By Katy Dickinson (7th) The years go by Short sweet A simple wish flower floating in the wind Begin anew The sweet dog Devastated The smell of spring Danger The dead of night Safety

Top: Antelope Canyon Bottom: Horseshoe Canyon - Photography & Digital Manipulation by Riley Bennett (6th)

Shameless by Anna Bailly (7th) She was shameless. She walked with a wagger identified by the world. Her eyes looked like the dark side of the moon. She wore a smirk that was pure genius. Everyone recognized her pale face, but no one knew who the woman was. Her frame faded without every knowing the answer.

One Voice

Ready

by Garret Jensen (7th)

by Gracie Dedo (7th)

I saw a whole world that was controlled by one voice or brian. The leader loved me so, but this was slavery. She was cruel. Her name? Units.

I have never seen a handsomer man. His jet black hair falls perfectly. Looking at him brings shivers. Anxiety swells inside me. Approach him now. No, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Go!

El Birda By Ava Jacobsen (7th) Harmony is an industrious, half-conscious instrument a bird whose sound never comes out right. A scream is a laugh, barely awake, industrialized by old men.

Crayola Pipeline - Photography by Joseph Recalde-Phillips (6th)

East River in the West - 2D Paper Sculpture by Graham Burmeister (8th)