Open Book Program, a multi-faceted after-school program for young adolescents in which participants are engaged in activities that encourage the development of reading, writing and critical thinking skills.

My Journal

Wishes for Kayla and Me—A Class Poem
by Warren Jackson, Jasmine, Lena, Ashli Lewis, Vincent Spark and, Wakesha
Mayo Elementary School
Spring/1999

NOTE: This is a class poem, written in free verse. This poem is based on an introduction to writing poetry technique developed in New York City by well known Poet Kenneth Koch. Each student wrote a two- line stanza. The lines were combined into one poem.

Kayla wished she saw her dad again But I wish that Christmas was everyday and that Halloween was in June.

Kayla wished that her daddy would come back And I wish that my father would come back Because he disappeared on me since I was little.

Kayla wished she had a letter from her dad But I wish I would stay happy and never get sad.

Kayla wished she could see her dad But I wish I wasn't always sad.

Kayla wished Gran did not die But I wish I had a motor.

Kayla wished that she could go and visit Cheefus But I wish that I had a car.

Kayla wished that she could see her dad But I wish I can have a four by four truck and make fun of people.

Kayla wished that Gran was alive But I wish that I had a navigator so that I could show off My new car to people who don't have a car.

Kayla wished that her daddy would come But I wish that I was rich.

Kayla wished that she could see her dad But I with that I could have more money that anybody in the world.

Kayla wished that Gran didn't die.

But I wish I become famous and marry. That's my one big wish.