This month’s Ink Splat features our youth authors at Society of Young Inklings.
What makes a youth author’s perspective so special? Often, literature for young people is written by adults–and while these books are often wonderful, adults are also remembering back to their perspective as young people. When a youth author writes a story, poem, or novel, they bring unique perspective that comes not only from their one-of-a-kind voice, but from their day-to-day experiences.
Below, you’ll find a handful of pieces created by our Inklings, and also thoughtful reflections from others about why writing matters so deeply.
Each excerpt we’ve shared is also linked to the full piece, published on the Inkwell, so that you can read the whole piece. You don’t have to be a subscriber to read these linked pieces. We encourage you to dive right in.
We honor each of these beautiful, brave voices when we allow their words to spark something in us, too.
Every voice is singular
a vibrant expression
of what it means
to be human,
to be you,
at this exact moment in time.
Voice is your own
distinctive, evolving way
of creating,
of bringing
meaning
into the world.
They let Eli pluck the first tomato, which gleamed with such smooth skin you could make out your reflection staring back at you. It tasted of fresh breeze with a sample of sun-kissed honey, just as Mr. Bob had remembered.
Natalie, grade 7
Fiction | A New Harvest
READ ON …
But sometimes, time plays with us and sends humans who have unforgettable pains in their heart, I see you girls are troubled. Follow me if you want to make yourself whole.
Sora, grade 4
Fiction | The Trio of Hearts
READ ON …
The song of the California poppies tells of its color
The landscape, pockmarked with turmeric, sings of thirst
A rhythm of orange emerges into the melody
Its tenacity in the palm of drought
James, grade 7
Poem | Song of the Wild
READ ON …
When I think of childhood, I’m watching myself through a tinted window
It’s foggy, and inside the window is a faded yellow
I am blowing dandelions and drawing with crayons
I am running through grass and popping bubbles.
Bella, grade 11
Poem | Gazing Through the Window
READ ON …
Want more from our Inklings writers? Check out their remarkable books at our Bookshop.org Store.
Voice builds bridges between people, across difference, and toward possibility.
When youth discover the power of their voices, they don’t just create stories. They shape the future.
Last year, 5 out of 6 young Inklings participated through scholarships or free-of-cost programming, including youth leadership cohorts, mentorships, and the Inklings Book Contest.
With your support, you help ensure that access remains at the heart of everything we do.
You widen the circle of youth who are finding creative confidence, community, and belonging.