Free Monologues for Kids and Teenagers

Drama Notebook holds a Monologue Contest every month for students ages 6-18. We are building a collection of fantastic original monologues for kids and teens entirely written by students.

Winners are chosen monthly and featured on this page.

~PERMISSIONS~

While the monologues in this collection are FREE, they are copyright protected. They may not be reproduced in written form and published elsewhere. They may be used for auditions, performed in educational settings, used in school and community theatre performances, and video-taped without asking permission.

The performer must cite the author AND Drama Notebook in his/her recitation, and if possible, add a link to the Drama Notebook Monologues on a web page where the performance is shared.

For commercial rights and other inquiries, please contact us.

~VIDEO ANNOUNCEMENT~

We would like to add videos of student performers and actors, and even professional actors performing some of these fantastic pieces. If you are interested in participating, choose any monologue from the collection, rehearse it, and then create a video of your performance and upload it to YouTube or send us the MP4 file. Feel free to get creative!

1. Send the link or the MP4 file to us here.

2. Fill out and attach this Monologue Performance Release Form.

We will let you know if we add your performance to the monologue listing!

"The Length We Go for Love"

First Place Winner!
By: Amelia Benson, Age 13, Washington, USA
Description: A girl confesses to a murder
Genre: Dramatic

My mom just got a phone call...I think it was the police. Emily, you're my best friend, and If I have to tell someone, it is going to be you...(sighs) A month ago my mom embezzled 100,000 dollars from one of her clients. It was the perfect crime. 100,000 dollars that would never be missed by one of those fat cats. She could have said they lost the money in the stock market. (in response) ...Why did she do it? Because we are rolling in debt, and they're rolling in money! (defensive) I KNOW my mom stole, but she is not a thief. She may have committed a crime, but she IS NOT a criminal. She did it out of necessity and love for me. (pause) But my stepdad found out. He was going to TURN HER IN! I couldn't let him do that; I tried to talk to him but...he wouldn't listen. (Transition) The police said he died from a fall, but he didn't. (responding) How do I know? Because I killed him. It was me. Please, don't call me a murderer. I know this is a lot, and I don't expect you to keep it to yourself. I can't hide it anymore, that's why I'm telling you. Not because I expect you to cover for me, but because I EXPECT you to turn me in. I need you to do it. Promise me you will. At least my mom is safe. She'll be okay, even if I am rotting in a cell. Even If I never get to see her again, she will make it. I would gladly take her spot in prison, as long as she's safe. THIS is the length we go for love.

"I’m Done with AI...Kinda"

Second Place Winner!
By: Luke Meadows, Age 13, Texas, USA
Description: A teen shares their thoughts on AI
Genre: Dramatic

AI is getting worse! Every day it gets smarter, faster, and scarier. My parents use it, my teachers use it, I use it (small smirk) but sometimes, it's TOO much! Online, you think you see a cool product a company is advertising...NOOOO! It's actually AI! You think your friend is really smart and wrote a super good essay...NOOOO! He actually used AI! Now there are videos of these AI's talking to each other in a whole different language! It's getting scary! At some point, there will be AI movies in the theaters! I don't want to watch a movie that was made in 5 minutes! I want to actually see the work that was put into it! I want to have a normal life where I can learn how to do things for real! I want to learn how to drive a car! I want to "learn how to learn" properly in classes! I DON'T WANT TO USE AI TO HELP ME! (Throw arms in the air) Well, actually, maybe I could use it for a couple things. (small smile)

"Lettuce Woes"

Third Place Winner!
By: Tessa Brubaker, Age 12, Pennsylvania, USA
Description: A poor little head of lettuce describes their misfortune
Genre: Comedic

(Sigh) Do you know what is really sad? Me. For I am nothing but a wee, young lettuce. My life is so very difficult. First, dear friends, listen to this curious situation. I have no legs! I have no way of moving at all! The only reason I am here is because I was uprooted and put on a little wagon of a tiny disdainful human creature. Second, I can't understand anything anyone is saying. I cannot speak human, or dog, or hoe, or radish, or anything! I can't even understand my fellow lettuces because a spell was cast on me, so unlike them, I have a mouth to talk, and eyes to see, and ears to hear. If you were the fairy creature that cast this spell on me, thank you, but seriously, will you please send another thing for me to talk to? Please? I'll take anything at this point. Consider it at least. But now, I am afraid I'm getting some suspicious looks from the mother creature, and I think I will soon become fertilizer on the c-c-c-compost pile! Why would they let me die out here all alone in the yard? If these are my last words, I just want to say, (gasp) Wait... is that a...A HAMPSTER!!! THEY HAVE A HAMPSTER!! HELP!! HEEEEELLLLLLPPP!!

"How Does Love Work?"

First Place Winner!
By: Kylie Frankel, Age 13, Florida, USA
Description: A girl asks her friend what to do about her crush.
Genre: Comedic

Can I confess something? (Beat) I think I like him. (Beat) No, I'm serious. And it's not because he's beautiful. (Beat) I'm not saying he isn't beautiful. He is seriously gorgeous. But, also, it's his laugh. His smile. His terrible jokes that somehow make me …laugh. Not fake laughter because I feel bad that his jokes suck, but genuine, real laughter. He's the only one who can make me laugh like that. Every time I see him, my mind goes from "I have to study for my test or I'm gonna fail!" to "OH MY GOSH, IT'S HIM!" And while I'm taking a test, all I can think about is how cute his curls look today. Or how much depth his eyes have. They're like…endless, infinite blue whirlpools that go around…and around (zoning out) …and arounder…I've failed at least 9 tests because of those eyes. (Pulling back into reality) Which is a serious problem, and I don't know what to do about it! Please, help me stop loving him! Please!

"Life as a Leprechaun"

Second Place Winner!
By: Lily Rumball, Age 14, Ontario, Canada
Description: Being a leprechaun isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
Genre: Comedic

You'd think Leprechauns have it easy. I mean we have lots of gold, and we get to look at beautiful rainbows all the time. Sounds great, right? Wrong! First of all, even though we have a lot of gold it's not like we can actually do anything with it, except look at it. That's because we're 'bound to the rainbow'. I've never seen anything other than this rainbow in my whole entire life, literally! I was born 5 minutes ago when this rainbow appeared. And the moment someone steals my gold; I'll vanish along with the rainbow. (pause) Wait a minute! You want to steal my gold? You can't do that, I'll vanish! I'm too young to die. (pause) You don't care? You still want my gold? I guess, I'll just have to make a run for it then. (Try to run then realize you're constricted.) Never mind, I can't run. I'm 'bound to the rainbow' and all that jazz. (rethinking) You know what? You can just have my gold. No leprechaun has ever given away their gold before, maybe I won't vanish. Here, take my gold. (A visible change in demeanor, as you are now free). Look at me, I'm free! (pause) And now you're a leprechaun! Serves you right! Time for me to go! I want to see what running's like. Bye! (exit running)

"I Am AI"

Third Place Winner!
By: Asher G., Age 15, Montana, USA
Description: Convincing a friend that you are both AI and real.
Genre: Dramatic

Having a real child was too risky. That's what they said. The odds of having a talented, smart, and happy kid are way better if you just order one. So, that's what my mom and dad did. I mean I'm real, I'm just not "real." I don't know why you think it's so strange. AI people are everywhere; you just don't realize it because we look just like you do. We go to school, we play sports, we eat pizza. We're just different on the inside. It's not like I walk around with glowing eyes and a charging port. I'm not plotting to destroy humanity. (Joking) But if I were, I know who I'd start with. Listen, being real isn't about where you come from or how you're made. It's about how you choose to live. I choose to be kind. I choose to be honest. I choose to be helpful. Which is more than I can say for some "real" people.

"Big Dreams, Little Fish"

First Place Winner!
By: Elijah Haines, Age 14, Wyoming, USA
Description: Catching your first big fish is exciting!
Genre: Comedic

Fishing is so boring! Why in the world did you bring me out here? We've been out since dawn and now it's (checks watch) 11 a.m. and we haven't even gotten a single bite! It's hot and the only things I've eaten today are saltine crackers and soggy ham sandwiches! Ugh, how much longer are we gonna… (jerks forward suddenly) hold on a second. (jerks again) Hold on… (gasps) I… I got a bite! Oh my gosh, a bite! OOF! (leans back as if pulling) It's a big one too! Dad, I think I'm catching the biggest fish in the world! (pulls harder) Oh yeah, this is a big one! I wonder if I'll win an award for this catch! Yeah, I can see it now! I'll enter the fish into a contest, and the judges will be so impressed that they'll tell their friends who work at the biggest museum in the world! Then, those people will pay me a million, no, a billion dollars! Then, after they see how big my fish is, they'll tell the president! Then when that's all over, we'll eat the fish! We could invite the entire family, no wait the entire neighborhood, oh heck with it, the whole city can come, and we'll still have leftovers for a year! (Strains and pulls harder) He's about out, I can feel it! Oh, here he comes! (Falls backwards into boat. On fishing line is a tiny little fish.) Where's my…(pauses and stares at tiny fish) oh. I guess you can cancel all the invites. See? This is why I hate fishing!

"Glitter Catastrophe"

Second Place Winner!
By: Georgia G.R., Age 9, Louisiana, USA
Description: A pageant contestant can’t find her glitter
Genre: Comedic

(Backstage with other contestants right before the pageant begins.) Hey girlies! It's Pageant Day! (to mom) Mom! Where is my glitter? I can't find my glitter! I am 30 seconds from losing my mind because in 8 minutes I have to go on stage and perform in front of the WHOLE WORLD and SEVEN JUDGES! Did you move it? I put it right here! On this table! By my mirror! I know I did! It was JUST here and now it's GONE! You know I can't be pageant-public without my glitter! I'll be the laughingstock of the WHOLE PAGEANT WORLD! I have my dress, my shoes, my hair is done, but without the glitter I'm nothing at all! I won't get my crown or my Miss Louisiana Elementary title without my glitter! Have you ever seen a Beauty Queen without glitter? (Listens as mom says a name) She doesn't count! (Listens as mom says another name) She doesn't count, either! I can NOT be Miss Louisiana Elementary without my glitter! A Beauty Queen has to shimmer and shine! There are two things that judges need to see; Kindness and Pizazz, and GLITTER IS PIZAZZ! (Listen as mom speaks) Mom, I will NOT "SHINE FROM THE INSIDE!" THE JUDGES CAN'T SEE MY INSIDES!!!

"Neverland...Never Again"

Third Place Winner!
By: Paige U., Age 14, Arizona, USA
Description: Tinkerbell is all grown up and finally done with Neverland.
Genre: Comedy

Remember me? Crocodiles. Mermaids. Wings. Hooks. Pirates. Chaos. I still have a migraine from that bun (touches head). And that whole place smells like a boy's locker room. Neverland …uh…never again! I don't want to walk the plank! (sweetly) But Peter made everything better. (pause) Why'd he fall for a girl in a nightgown? (with accent impersonating Wendy) " Oh Peter, You're so brave. Peter, teach me to fly." PLEASE! Who put Wendy in charge? I'm the one who saved him from the poison. (mimes the words NO, STOP, hands to neck) Wendy should have drank it. (crazed laugh) Kidding….kidding…mostly. That pixie dust, remember? Always stuck in our hair. Made us so hyper we couldn't sleep. (looks over shoulder) Oh, they're boarding now. I did always make a good pilot, didn't I? NO - don't call me Tinkerbell. I'm Captain Tina. The pilot. Neverland's still there…but that's only route I won't fly. Bon voyage.

"The Queen Bee’s Dilemma"

First Place Winner!
By: Sorelle Hirsch, Age 14, North East England, UK
Description: To sting or not to sting, that is the question.
Genre: Comedic

Should I do it? I mean, I am the queen bee, for goodness sake! Queen over hundreds of subjects- and that insolent child dared to brandish his shoe at me as if I were a mere bluebottle- the shame! And it's not as if I was threatening him in any way; I was harmlessly pollenating that daisy. He must be punished. Of course he must! A little sting will do the trick. Haha! Little boy, you won't be so smug now, will you?! (Pause) But... can I really do it? He's only a little boy. Do I really want to hurt him? I am known throughout the Bee Kingdom for my forgiving and merciful nature. He didn't mean it personally. I should stop being so sensitive. I will be noble. I won't do it. I won't- ahhhhhhhhh! There's that awful blue shoe again! That's it! Enough! I don't care-(Stings boy) You deserved that, you little- (Jumps back in alarm, winces and covers ears.) What an awful racket! Please stop that howling child, my poor ears! Oh, it's no use, he won't hear me. Oh, there's his mother coming to see what all the fuss is. Seriously, such a fuss for a tiny sting. (Shakes head in disapproval) Humans, nowadays.

"Weird? Yes I Am"

Second Place Winner!
By: Braelyn Sherrill, Age 13, Louisiana, USA
Description: When a bully calls you weird, embrace it.
Genre: Dramatic

Weird? That's all you got? Yes, I am weird. I wear black, I listen to Pierce the Veil and My Chemical Romance, I wear black eyeliner. So what? At least I’m not trying to fit in with everyone else. You walk around in your matching outfits, same slang, same fake laugh, pretending like you actually like each other. Newsflash: you don’t. You’re just terrified of standing out, terrified someone might notice you’re different. Me? I own it. I like being different. It means I don’t have to play by your rules or worry about what you think. You call me weird because deep down, you wish you had the guts to be yourself. But hey, keep hiding behind your popularity, your perfect Instagram posts, your shallow little clique. I’ll be over here, living my life honestly. Because being weird? That’s not an insult. It’s freedom.

"Barbie Girl"

Third Place Winner!
By: Cadence Howe, Age 17, Texas, USA
Description: Barbie is “auditioning” to be sold.
Genre: Comedy

I'm a great cook and I can clean. I come with a white puppy dog and of course I love pink. I mean I'm a normal girl. I like to shop too! (Dropping the "Barbie" act.) Is the camera still rolling? No? (Groans) I can't keep doing this. I feel too, you know? Breathe. Walk. Talk. Of course, I wanna be sold! I know I'm not as blonde as OG Barbie…But I can be different, you know? Being a Barbie is hard work. I mean my arms don't even move! I sit with my legs straight for crying out loud. I don't think I can do this anymore. Why wasn't I made soft and cuddly like Raggedy Anne?! I'm tired of these limbs, the permanent makeup, don't get me started on my feet… What? An 8-year-old girl? I got the job?! I get a house!? Finally! Oh! Let me get my blue dress on!

"This is How it Really Happened"

First Place Winner!
By: Isabelle Robin, Age 10, Louisianna, USA
Description: The Big Bad Wolf tells his side of the story
Genre: Comedic

For the tenth time, I was not trying to eat the pigs! I was on my way to the doctor because I got the flu. And while I was on my way I came across the 3 Pigs' houses. So I go to get some pi-I mean food from the pigs because they prepare well - I mean they prepare food well. (Laughs sarcastically like he was joking) I just wanted to get some bacon- I mean turkey bacon and out of nowhere, a sneeze hits me, and I accidentally forget to cover it, and the house blows away like pine needles in a hurricane. (mumbling under breath) You should really get some insurance. (Consider humming an insurance company jingle.) Then the pigs ran away! Why would they be scared of me? So anyway, I ran to the next house to get porkchops- I mean vegan meat because I am a meat free wolf and out of nowhere, another sneeze hits me, and before I can cover it, that house comes down like it was made out of popsicle sticks and Elmer's glue - Oh, No! (sarcastically) So, I go to the last house, and it's locked up so tightly that the doors won't even jiggle when I try to yank them - I mean knock on them politely. So then I pretend to be Santa Claus, and I climb up on the roof where I notice a delicious smell coming from the chimney and assume they are making me a lovely vegan meal, so I jump on down the chimney, but when I get to the bottom I land in the fire! No vegan meal, no nice incense, just bar-b-qued wolf! So yeah, I accidentally knocked down their houses. I didn't mean to hurt them. (rolls eyes) I mean if they have such a problem with it, get a lawyer.

"My Dad’s Not Around"

Second Place Winner!
By: Amiyah M., Age 14, New Jersey, USA
Description: A teen explains their feelings about not having a dad around
Genre: Dramatic

You know what’s funny? You ask me where my dad is, like I am supposed to know. But really he’s not around. He hasn’t been for a long time. Still, I always feel like something missing. Every birthday, every little win, every bad day… there’s this empty space where he should be. Sometimes I try to imagine him — what his voice would sound like if he told me he was proud, what it would feel like to call someone “Dad.” But then I remember — he chose to leave. (Beat) I used to think maybe I wasn’t enough — like if I had been smarter, taller, better — he would’ve stayed. I know now it’s not my fault. But sometimes I just wonder, wasn’t I worth staying for? (Beat) And then there’s that ache…in my heart…the one that sneaks up when I see other people with their dads, laughing, arguing, just being there. Sometimes I tell myself I don’t care. Because I don't. I try to trust my smarts not my heart. My brain tells me that I don’t need him…And that I’m fine…but my heart…(Beat) I wonder if he knows what he lost. I mean, he may have left me, but his leaving didn’t break me. It built me.

"You Can’t Make Me Like School"

Third Place Winner!
By: Skyler Zhu, Age 13, Brooklyn, New York
Description: A student struggles to find a reason to like school.
Genre: Dramatic

(A student talks to the school counselor. They are not disrespectful, just honest.) No, I don't like school. I only come because I have to. I don't have a choice. Grown-ups tell me what to do, and I do it so that I don't get in trouble. But if I had my way, I'd stay home and watch YouTube all day. Or play video games. But no…I get on the bus. I come to school. I sit at my desk. I watch the smart board. Me and 30 other kids crammed into a classroom, listening to a teacher who doesn't want to be there. It's all so stupid. I mean, shouldn't learning be fun? How do you expect me to like school when nobody asks me what I want to learn?

"Goodbye"

First Place Winner!
By: Piper Russell, Age 13, Texas USA
Description: The moon says goodbye to the sun
Genre: Comedic/Melodramatic

Goodbye Sun. I'll see you again eventually when our paths cross. It might be in a week, it might be in a year, and it might be in a decade, but I'll be waiting for you. As our paths drag us apart I hope our love can hold us together. With the millennia you've known me you've always put a light on my face and brightened my day. Some days I don’t see you at all and those are some of the darkest days of my life. I hope that you have a little more room in your very large heart for one more day with me, but sadly that cannot be now. For now, I must go. I know my duty must be fulfilled and yours too. But I still wish for one more day together, just to gaze at each other for longer. Your warmth, your light, and your smile will stay ingrained in my mind forever and I hope you feel the same. I will miss you dearly. Love, your mindful Moon.

"My Sister is a Colleague"

Second Place Winner!
By: Kylie Frankel. Age 12, Florida USA
Description: Why is the youngest sibling always the most annoying?
Genre: Comedic

I HATE my sister. (Beat) I know that’s crazy considering I’m always with her, but it’s not like I want to hate her! She’s like a colleague that I’m forced to work with on a day-to- day basis even though she’s THE MOST annoying person in the building. And my brothers and I are the employees that have to put up with her to get an allowance for the week. The only reason she gets away with everything is because she’s the youngest, which automatically makes her the boss’s, aka my mom’s, favorite. And she’s always the employee of the month. Every time we try to tell on her, guess what mom says? (Mocking, sweet voice) “My sweet little angel would never do that! Stop being so jealous of her! She never does anything wrong!” (Aggravated) But the second my mom’s “sweet little angel” tattles on us for not playing dolls with her? (Mocking, stern voice) “You 3, go to your rooms right now! None of you are leaving this house until you think about what you did to my sweet, sweet baby!” (Sigh) And guess what? She NEVER. STOPS. CRYING. Plus, her idea of playing dolls is not normal for a 6- year-old. She likes to pretend that one of the dolls falls out of a hot air balloon and she holds a funeral for it. When I was her age, I promise, I never did ANYTHING like that. My dolls would go to the beach. Her dolls get burned alive and eaten when food gets scarce after their plane to Hawaii crashes in the Bermuda Triangle. Not normal.

"Excluded"

Third Place Winner!
By: Jaielyn Alvarez-Irizarry, Age 14, Florida USA
Description: Excited to hang out with friends only to discover you’ve been left out again.
Genre: Dramatic

(Getting ready to go out with friends.) I'm so excited to finally hang out with my friends for the first time in like forever. It's been so long. Today’s gonna be really special. I'm mostly excited to see my best friend. She's been on vacation for the past few weeks, so we haven't seen each other. She has been acting kinda distant...but it's probably just because she's tired after getting back from her trip. (Finishing touches-maybe shoes or coat.) Okay I'm ready. (Checking phone) She was supposed to pick me up at three, but I think she's running a little late cause its three thirty now. I’ll just send her a message. (Texts) Hmm. Thats weird. She always answers. Oh! There she is, okay. (Reads message. Face falls.) Oh no. She’s not feeling well so the plans are cancelled. Well, that's alright, there's always next weekend. (Texting back) I'll just tell her no worries and to feel better. (Gets a notification) Oooh! Someone just posted! Wait...what? Everyone’s at the mall. And she’s there too. That can't be right, she just said she was sick. (Realization) Wow. Excluded again.

"Lost in the Wild (aka the Backyard)"

First Place Winner!
By: Celeste Riva, Age 12, Milan, Italy
Description: An adventurous house cat’s quest for freedom
Genre: Comedic

(Setting: a chilly evening. The sky is turning orange as the sun sets. Lavinia, the cat, is crouched under a bush, eyes wide, whiskers twitching. The world outside the garden fence is much bigger and scarier than she expected.)

Okay, okay. No need to panic. I am a cat. Cats do not panic. We are stealthy, fearless hunters. Masters of the night. Kings and queens of our domain. (A sudden rustling noise. Lavinia flattens herself to the ground.) What was that?! A fox? A giant bird? A…a monster?! No, no, focus. It was probably just the wind. Or a leaf. Yes, a leaf. A terrifying, dangerous leaf. (Shivers, glancing around.) This seemed like a great idea an hour ago. The fence was right there, and it looked so easy. One little leap, one graceful landing, and-boom! Freedom! The world at my paws. I could feel the fresh air, smell all the strange new scents, and explore, like the fearless jungle cat I was born to be. (Beat. Lavinia's tail twitches.) Except…now everything smells so strange. The ground is cold. The grass is damp. And where is my human? Where is the warm blanket she leaves on the couch just for me? Where is the sound of her voice, calling my name, her footsteps running toward me when she finds me curled up in my favorite spot? (Looks up at the sky, ears dropping) It's getting dark. And dark means…night creatures. The ones that slink through the shadows. The ones with glowing eyes and sharp teeth. I have sharp teeth, too, but I would rather not use them. I am a cat of elegance, not battle. (Starts pacing, thinking.) Okay. Think, Lavinia. I jumped over the fence…ran past the big tree…hid under the-oh! The tree! If I can climb back up, I can see over the fence! I can find the way home! (Scrambles up the tree, claws gripping the bark. She reaches a low branch and peers over the fence. Her ears perk up.) There it is! My house! My window! And-there! My human! She's outside, calling my name, her face all worried. (For a moment, Lavinia watches, tail flicking. Then, with one big leap, she jumps down into the yard and meets her human. Lavinia lets out a soft purr, pressing her head against her human's cheek.) Maybe I don't need to be a fearless jungle cat. Maybe I just need to be home

"The Crush"

Second Place Winner!
By: Lisa M., Age 12, Washington, USA
Description: When you have a crush on your best friend’s brother
Genre: Comedic/Dramatic

I’m in love with my best friend’s brother. No! No! It can’t be. How can I tell Alexis that I’m in love with her brother? Her annoying brother. Her brother, whose name is spelled M-I-C-A-H. Micah… gosh, why him? I don’t even understand, but there’s something about those glasses, the way they frame his beautiful blue eyes…ugh! I’m a horrible friend for liking him, but gosh, he’s just so cute. And the way he runs is so fascinating. He wins almost every race. Me, Riley, and him, Micah. She’ll probably hate me, but I can’t control my feelings. The way he tries his hardest in cross country and track, the way he looks in the track uniform, his laugh, it’s so adorable. Lots of people think it’s annoying, but I think it makes him even more handsome. And the fact that he can run a five-minute mile and always tries new events. Just everything about him makes me like him. I wish I had the courage to tell him. Maybe I’ll tell him at the end of the year. Maybe. Just maybe.

"I Know You’re There"

Third Place Winner!
By: Madelynn K., Age 13, Connecticut, USA
Description: When you try to communicate with a spirit in your room.
Genre: Dramatic

You can stop hiding, you know.
I’ve felt you… for weeks.
That cold draft when the windows are closed.
The creak of the floorboards when no one else is home.
The way the lights flicker, just for a second
like you’re trying to speak but forgot how.
I thought I was losing it.
I told myself I was tired.
Stressed.
Dreaming.
But it’s real, isn’t it?
You’re real.
I don’t know who you are… or were.
Not exactly.
But you keep showing up in my dreams.
That same old coat. That sad look in your eyes.
And the locket. Always the locket.
What are you trying to tell me?
I’m not afraid of you.
Not really.
I think maybe… you’re just lost.
Just like me.
Two souls stuck in a place that doesn’t feel like home anymore.
I don’t want to banish you or cross you over or whatever they say in the movies.
I just want to know.
Why me?
Why now?
If there’s something you need…
a message to give,
a memory you’re scared will fade
I’ll listen.
I’ll help.
Just… don’t disappear again.
Not tonight.
Please.

"My Name"

Honorable Mention!
By: Rhythm V., Age 13, Connecticut, USA
Description: A student explains why her name makes her special.
Genre: Dramatic

My name comes from Greek. It comes from the Greek word rhythmos, which means to flow in a strong, regular movement or sound. It is a pattern. A pattern that repeats, a pattern that changes, then repeats itself again. I am everywhere. In music. In the silence between notes. In the heartbeat of the people I love. In the bursts of laughter and in the sobs stirred by memory. Every time someone says my name, I fill with hope and love. It reminds me of who I am. Whether they say my actual name, Rhythm or call me Music Note or even yell Ryry in excitement. Even when they hum a random rhythm in musical notes, they remember me. And I remember myself. People struggle to spell my name. Because it’s different. Special like me. It’s the longest word without a primary vowel. Unusual. Unique. Like me. I am Rhythm. And I am everywhere.

"I Need to Go Outside!"

First Place Winner!
By: Stefano Gattone, Age 12, Milan, Italy
Description: A desperate dog tries everything to get their owner’s attention.
Genre: Comedic

I tried everything: I brought you the collar for the first time in my life and waited like a good dog, but nothing. I barked so loudly that I seemed like a bulldog, but you slapped my snout. I licked your leg, but you kicked me away. I jumped like Ronaldo, but you ignored me. I did the sweetest puppy eyes ever, but you continued playing. I stood in front of the TV trying to block the view, but you moved me as if I were meaningless. I don't like it when you treat me like a plush toy; I'm still your dog. I don't know if you understand that this is an urgent call! I NEED TO GO OUTSIDE!!! I can't resist anymore. Stop that thing and go outside with me. Now! Why don't you pay attention to your lovely dog? I'm trying to be good, but you are not helping me; I need it. If you take me outside, I will let you play, okay? (Silence) Okay, I'll take that as a no. If Mom wasn't here, I would poop inside, but good dogs don't poop in the house. One time I remember that I pooped in the house, and Mom chased me all over with two Havaianas. (Alternately, you could say shoes or flip flops) Why don't you answer my questions? (Waiting) I give up. I can't wait any longer. I'm going to ask Dad to take me out, but I promise that this lack of respect won't be easily forgotten.

"Shoulders Back. Smile."

Second Place Winner!
By: Lucy Warren, Age 15, South Carolina, USA
Description: Sometimes you need to give yourself a pep talk on the first day of school, and sometimes it’s hard.
Genre: Dramatic

Shoulders back. Smile. First day of school. Blank page. A fresh start. You can do this! You got this! No one is going to judge you. Just be yourself! Just get on the bus and sit in the same seat you always have. (pause) But what if someone is in my seat? Then what do I do? Do I sit with them? No, that would be weird. They can't think I'm weird. If they think I'm weird, then they will tell their friends I am weird. Then the whole school will think I'm weird, and I will cry in my mom's arms because no one, no one, wants to be friends with the weird girl who sat with the rando on her first day of school. And I will have to move away just like last time. It cannot be like last time. It just can't. So, I will just sit in the seat across from them. Yes, that's what I will do. (pause) But what if someone is in that seat? Oh my goodness. It is not that big of a deal, just find an open seat. Find an open seat. Alright, ok. I can do this. Just breathe. Breathe. It will all be ok. (pause) Who am I kidding? I will never be able to just sit normally on a bus. This is just the way I am. So act like you are fine. Just pretend. Yeah, I can do that. Pretend. Ok. Stand up straight. Shoulders back. Smile.

"My Mother’s Cooking "

Third Place Winner!
By: Naomi H., Age 12, Georgia, USA
Description: When you can’t take your mother’s terrible cooking anymore.
Genre: Comedic

My mother’s cooking is terrible! I know it’s disrespectful, and I just interrupted the middle of math class, but I have to get it out! The smoke alarm is now our dinner bell. It warns us to be prepared. I mean… why?! Last night I asked my mom if she needed help in the kitchen, and she said, “No, I got it.” But after tasting her ‘creation’, I’m not so sure about that. I mean, it’s like a mystery! I don’t know what’s on my plate, and I don’t know if I want to find out. Last night, I took a picture of my food to see if Google knew what it was, but it didn’t even recognize it as food! What showed up was a landfill. And guess what else? Even the dog turned it down! That says a lot. Our kitchen is the only one where the smoke detector is begging for mercy. Now you know why I never invite anyone over. It’s not because we live in a haunted mansion; it’s the food that’s haunted. Sorry, Mr. Smith, please continue.

"The Muted Dream"

First Place Winner!
By: Czarina Mejia, Age 15, California, USA
Description: A student confides in their friend about their dream of becoming a musician.
Genre: Dramatic

I write songs. Lots of them. Secretly, of course. My parents... they don't get it. They want me to be a nurse, or an engineer, or something in the STEM field. Something that earns a lot of money. Music? They think it's a waste of time. It's hard, you know? Because I love music so much. More than... well, more than almost anything. I dream of playing my songs for people, of making music my life. But what if I fail? What if I'm not good enough? What if I spend all my time and effort, and it's all for nothing? What if this voice inside me keeps pulling me back down into this dark place? Would that ever happen? And that... That's the scariest part. It's not just about the music; it's about letting myself down. It's about failing at something I really care about. So I keep it quiet. And right now, it's safer to keep dreaming in silence.

"Job Hunt"

Second Place Winner!
By: Bug Ramirez, Age 17, California, USA
Description: Applying for a job is stressful.
Genre: Dramatic

This is terrible. How bad of a candidate do I have to be to get rejected from Chuck E. Cheese? Three times, by the way. I don't understand what I'm doing wrong. Is it my resume? Is Indeed just a fake app that doesn't send in your application or resume? I don't even get a chance to interview before I get denied. And the first interview I got at SeaWorld, let me tell you what happened. When I enter, I'm the best-dressed person. Everyone else looks like they came from a golf course. One girl is even wearing Crocs and the worst outfit I've seen. I was called in, and this man pointed out every way he could have contacted me: my number, my mother's number, my email, my backup email, and my address. All this, and then he tells me the position is no longer available. Are you joking? You couldn't have called me? Texted me? Emailed me? Sent me a letter through a flipping pigeon to tell me my application was worthless? Whatever! I don't care. I just interviewed at a coffee shop near my house. I had them laughing, and smiling, and I was asking amazing questions, "What is needed for a person to succeed at this job?" "Why did you start working here?" I sounded very professional. I looked very professional. I was early. I was perfect. They said they'd call on Monday. I waited and then got a text message that said, "We have proceeded with other candidates." Now I'm hoping, BEGGING, PLEADING, ON MY KNEES, I NEEDED A JOB! I know I'm young, but having a job would be such a relief. I'd get out of the house and make my own money. If I get a job, I'll have independence. So please, someone hire me!

"Too Much Work!"

Third Place Winner!
By: Blessing Dussey, Age 13, Maryland, USA
Description: A student complains to the principal that teachers assign too much work.
Genre: Comedic

Yeah, it's me. Again. I just wanted to let you know that there is a serious crisis. (Beat) What do you mean I'm always complaining? (Beat) Uhhh, me being here every day this week doesn't mean I'm here every day, every week. (Beat) Fine, so maybe I am here every day. But I still have a crisis. It's not like the other problems. It has nothing to do with an indoor shopping center, or serving donuts for lunch, or why the President of the United States should visit us. It's way worse than that. (Beat) It's the fact that the teachers are assigning too much work! I barely have time for myself anymore. (Beat) What do you mean it's for my own good? I do not feel good doing so much work. You know what? It makes me feel the opposite of good. I actually feel bad doing it! (Beat) What do you mean working a little extra won't kill me? Too much work leads to stress, and stress leads to depression, and depression leads to me possibly dying! (Beat) Did you just tell me that working hard helps me grow? Well, in fact, I think I'm wilting. Wilting from the pressure and exhaustion. The only thing I'm growing is frustration. (Beat) How on Earth is this preparing me for High School? It's called High School. Not High Workload School. (Beat) What do you mean the teachers are working hard, too? It's their job. It's not my fault that all the work they give us means more work for them. That's called karma. (Beat) Excuse me? Did you just tell me to get out of your office and live my life because this is not a big deal? Well, I can't live my life if I'm slowly dying from this excessive labor! But since you don't seem to care, I might as well leave. Just know, that's an F in my grade book.

"Me and Muscular"

First Place Winner!
By: Luke Meadows, Age 12, Texas, USA
Description: A kid who wants to be muscular.
Genre: Comedic/Dramatic

Everyone says I am not muscular! (flexes) Every night, I look in the mirror, and all I see is a pre-teen kid (or teenager) with no muscles! I don't get it. I exercise all the time! I go on runs, I eat nutritious food most of the time, and I flex every night to make sure I'm growing! When I tell my parents, I think I'm getting abs and big muscles in my legs and arms, all they do is laugh at me! At school, they teach us that we shouldn't be too skinny or too fat! And when I draw a perfect picture of myself, after I flex, of course (hold up a self-portrait), my teacher just laughs about it! It makes no sense! If you don't think I am muscular, then teach me how to get big and strong, so I don't have to be a wimpy human with no muscles! All we do in P.E. is learn how to run and jump and play games. I want to be strong! Bring out some weights! Bring out a barbell! Let me lift some 75-pound weights so you can see how muscular I really am! All you see right now is a scrawny little 12-year-old (or any age). But I lift weights all the time at home! You might find that surprising, but seriously, come to my house and see me flex so I can prove to you that I've got muscles! (stomps on the ground and then flexes) I just don't get it!

"Back-to-School Shopping"

Second Place Winner!
By: Karissa I., Age 12, Oregon, USA
Description: Back-to-school shopping is the worst!
Genre: Comedic

Alright, Mom, I'm coming…just a minute! (beat) Ugh! Back to School Shopping! "It'll be fun," they say. I mean, what are you supposed to do? Pick out your favorite color of notebook and try to talk your mom out of buying you like a million pairs of the same clothes. I feel like Charlie Brown staring into a closet of yellow and black t-shirts and not knowing what to wear. (beat) Just a second, Mom! I'm trying to work out my emotions right now! (beat) You might say, "What's so bad about back-to-school shopping?" and I will tell you… Once a year, at that lovely time when summer break is almost over, you're reminded about how close the start of school is with an annual event called, you guessed it, back-to-school shopping. I mean, it's bad enough already, but then there's the crowds! It's like you're reaching for the last glue stick, and someone grabs it right before you can! Don't get me started about the things I've wanted to say to people in stores. Another con is how specific the shopping lists are! They're like "pre-sharpened, yellow, 7-inch long, #2, Ticonderoga pencils with a pink eraser." I mean, it's just a PENCIL! IT DOESN'T REALLY MATTER THAT MUCH! You could call back-to-school shopping "pure torture," and I'd know what you meant! (beat) I'm coming, Mom! Pray for me because the wrath of the stores lies before me!

"Best Friend"

Third Place Winner!
By: Wren B., Age 13
Description: A tribute to a friend.
Genre: Dramatic

I love my best friend—not in a romantic way, but in a way I can't quite describe. Our friendship is like a sheet fresh out of the dryer—warm and comforting. Like the taste of strawberries—sweet and familiar. I love her most of all because distance doesn’t tear us apart. Because miles apart don’t mean hearts apart. Because she understands me in ways no one else does. In a place where everyone’s best friends are just minutes away, I sometimes feel lost, like I’m missing out. But then I remember—I can always call my soulmate. Her brown hair curls in just the right places, a metaphor for her personality, whimsical and unruly. The scar around her eye frames her bright brown eyes, which only makes her more beautiful. And when she laughs, the world seems to glow, as if the only light in the atmosphere is her words. She is my constant, my light in the distance. And no matter how far we are, I know—we are never truly apart.

"Woes of a Build-a-Bear"

First Place Winner!
By: Aisling Turner, Age 15, Seattle, USA
Description: A “Build-a-Bear” shares the struggles of their job.
Genre: Comedic

The day a kid used me as a tissue was the final straw. In all my 15 years at Build-A-Bear, I’ve never experienced something so disgusting. And guess what? At the end of the day, I wasn’t even able to properly wash myself off! The bath they make the kids give us doesn't even have real water! And get this! Out of all the scents, the kid who chose me today could’ve picked; they chose birthday cake. So, on top of not being able to clean myself, I permanently smell like a birthday cake. The constant smell of frosting is nauseating. Was having rainbow fur not bad enough? And you know what's even worse? I don’t have anyone to talk to about this! All of the other bears love their job. They love getting kissed on the nose by kids who smell like they don’t know what a shower is. They love sitting in the lap of a kid whose teeth look like they went extinct with the dinosaurs. They love wearing the clothing that the little kids picked out for them. They ADORE being named things like Sunshine Glitter Sparkles and Bob and Snuggles. I don’t love any of this! I think it's vile. I need to escape.

"Strictly Forbidden"

Second Place Winner!
By: Gwenyth Budden, Age 14, Calgary, Canada
Description: A teen discovers the truth about her mom after discovering her diary.
Genre: Comedic

(Looking around in the attic.) Where would that report card be? Hmm…Dad's sports stuff is in these boxes (Gesturing). There’s the Christmas stuff (Gesturing). Here’s a bunch of hobby stuff that Ethan quit. (Pointing to yet another box.) Huh, this box is unlabeled. That's weird. (Opening the lid and examining the contents.) This looks like Mom's childhood stuff. O.M.G. What is this? (Takes out the journal and peeks.) I think this is Mom’s journal from when she was younger! (Snaps it closed.) There’s no way I could read it. (Considers for a moment.) Okay, so… If I open her journal, am I still a good person? (Pause) No, you have no right to snoop, even if she’s away. Just walk away and leave your mother's VERY secretive childhood journal. (Starts to walk away, looks back, approaches journal opens front cover.) No, this is wrong. I can’t peek through this… It’s an invasion of privacy. (Pause, thinking.) But…Mom will never know. (Opens the book to the first page and reads.) “KATIE, do not enter this book. It is strictly forbidden.” (Following lines with a finger.) If my mom doesn’t trust her sister, then it must be serious. (Pause) But how would I ever know without looking at it? (Opens the first page. Reads.) “I know you are tempted, Katie!” Wow, she is secretive about this book. Maybe it's too personal. (Slowly walks away, then sprints back.) I can’t help it. I want to know what she was like at my age… (Pause. Picks up the book and rushes to sit down. Starts to read.) “Dear Diary, today’s math was super exciting. We began with integers.” (Disappointment. Flips to a new page a little more through the book.) “I can’t wait to get my science test back because it's a surprise you must wait for!!!” (Flips to new page halfway through the book.) “I can’t wait to attend the optional conference to learn how to incorporate grammar in speech.”(Following lines with a finger. Stopping reading and closing the book aggressively.) Forget it. My mom will never be cool. (Puts journal down, disappointed.)

"Stories at the Beach"

Third Place Winner!
By: Aidan Lincoln, Age 14, Seattle, USA
Description: This very social character is passionate about the beach and is happy to have found someone to talk to.
Genre: Comedic

Hey! What's your name? MacKay? Well, MacKay, you see that bird? That's a bald eagle! They love the beach. I love the beach. I also love the sand (scoops up some sand) and how, in the height of the summer, it gets all toasty. I never, ever touch the water, though. It's way too cold, and there's jellyfish! It’s just so much better to look at, right? My dream day would be just to sit out on the warm beach, away from the water, watch the birds fly, and dig for clams. When I’m on the beach, all my fears just fade away into the sun, and nothing matters except for getting those clams. My brother has a boat, a lot like the one we’re waiting for. We take it out every summer and trust me when I say this: it has the best views ever! You can see all the seagulls and eagles and ospreys! And if you’re lucky, you can see a fish jump! Here's the thing about me: I get distracted easily, and one time, I was really intently watching this one duck, and I just fell right off the boat! I think that’s why I hate the water so much. I’ve learned over time that to really enjoy the boat rides, I need to be in the middle of the boat with a big ol’ life jacket on (fixes and imaginary life jacket). Then I can have the time of my life on the open waves.

"Pet Show"

First Place Winner!
By: Alec W., Age 14, Seattle, WA
Description: Can you win the pet show with a muddy dog?
Genre: Comedy

Hello everyone. This is my dog, Banjo. He's a Golden Retriever, and I know, I know, he doesn't really look like one right now. He's usually super fluffy and clean, but we kind of had a little accident on our way here today. Well, not really an accident, more like a typical day in Banjo's life. But I promise you that I gave him a bath, brushed him, and had him looking really good for the pet show today. (Beat) Banjo! Focus! This is a pet show, remember? No squirrels, no birds, no mud puddles…just sit here and be good! We can win this. (Beat) Okay…sorry about that. Like I said, he was looking really good this morning, but on our walk here, he saw a squirrel and chased it through the park. I called his name, and he started to come, but then he saw a duck in the pond, and you know how that goes. They don't call them retrievers for nothing. (Beat) Oh Banjo! Don't shake all over me! (Beat) Like I was saying, when I finally dragged him out of the water, I knew we were gonna be late, so we started running, but then he saw a mud puddle, and this dog loves a good mud bath. You'd think he was a pig. Spalt! He just plopped down and started rolling around. (Beat) So, yeah... he's a mess. We're both a mess. But Banjo is, like, the best dog. He plays fetch, he knows how to roll over, and he has this super funny bark that sounds like he's trying to say something, but he doesn't speak "human." (Beat) You know, I don't really care if you give us a ribbon or not 'cause Banjo is already my best friend, and I think that's what matters most, right? I mean, it's not about winning; it's about having fun together. Like, I don't even mind that he's a mess right now or that he dug a hole in the backyard and ate a whole box of treats this morning. He's still my dog. And that's the best prize in the world.

"Revenge"

Second Place Winner!
By: Vandhanaa G., Age 13
Description: A student is in the principal’s office after seeking revenge against another student.
Genre: Dramatic

Maybe what I did was wrong. But I couldn't stand seeing my best friend so depressed and watching her walk away scot-free! Jackie has the best personality in the world! He's funny, kind, smart, and has so many great qualities. And she had the audacity to use him and throw him away! Which is why I had to get revenge. It was all for him. (beat) First, I gave her the cold shoulder. Then, I started exposing her. You would be surprised at how many lies one girl can tell! I shared all her dirty little secrets with her friends, and they spread like wildfire. (beat) I mean, one time I saw her crying, but she deserved it! (beat) I get it. The chaos I caused is what got me sent here to your office. But I didn't bully her, I just exposed her. Is that wrong?

"The Show Must Go On"

Third Place Winner!
By: Kailey C., Age 14, Florida
Description: A student actor explains their first panic attack.
Genre: Dramatic

It was opening night, and I was standing in the wings backstage. It was 10 minutes until curtain. I don't know what triggered it. Maybe it was knowing there were hundreds of people staring at the stage. Maybe it was my director rounding up all the kids and trying to quiet them down. I don't know. I kind of blanked out. (Beat) All I remember is one of my friends trying to comfort me, but I was hysterical. She was muttering something in my ear, desperately trying to calm me down. I knew what she was saying, but it didn't really make sense to me. I don't know. I felt…overwhelmed. Panicked. (Beat) And then I heard someone call "places." I ran to the bathroom and forced myself to calm down. It was hard, yes, but I did it somehow. After all, the show must go on. I dragged myself onto the stage and the lights nearly blinded me. I looked into the wings one last time and there was my friend, smiling at me. (Beat) I smiled back. I took a deep breath and sang my first notes. (Beat) Looking back, the whole show feels like a fever dream! Quick changes, running around, trying to get to scenes on time. Intermission. I remember the curtain call and wondering why I was ever so panicked in the first place. (Beat) It was fun.

"Trust Me On This One"

First Place Winner!
By: Kylie Frankel, Age 12, Florida, USA
Description: Sometimes it’s hard to find a true friend.
Genre: Dramatic

Mom, I think I made a friend, but I’m not necessarily on her level yet. She’s so gorgeous, and everyone loves her. This could be my chance to be known around the school. She’s really nice, and she gave me some good tips. She told me that I wasn’t pretty enough to be her friend yet and that I needed to get a makeover for her to even consider putting me on her list, but I feel…drawn to her for some reason. I feel like we’re just…destined to be friends. (Beat) Yeah, yeah. I know it sounds bad, but she just has a sour shell. She’s probably super nice deep down! Trust me, Mom. I think she’s gonna be a good friend! (Beat) I know I don’t always have the best judgment, but I can tell she’s better than the others. Believe me. She’s not like Sofia, or Claire, or Jess, or…yeah, I’ve had a lot of fake friends, but she’s gonna be a real one. Trust me on this! (Beat) What do you mean I say that all the time? You’re the one who tries to push your friends’ kids on me. You arrange hangouts even though our personalities are completely opposite. Even though they bully me. You find me terrible people to be friends with, but when I make one friend on my own who I actually LIKE, I’m not allowed to even be friends with her?! You’re blind, mom. Face the facts.

Watch a video performance of this monologue here!

"Refrigerator After Dark"

Second Place Winner!
By: Emilia S. Age 13, New Jersey, USA
Description: What happens to the food when the refrigerator door closes?
Genre: Comedic

Have you ever wondered what goes on inside the refrigerator when the door closes? Well, I have, ALL THE TIME! I’ll bet there’s a big party in there. Maybe that is why all the leftovers disappear by the time I want to eat them. Maybe all the food moves around and plays music. Perhaps even the milk joins in. I’ve always thought of the milk as being the parental figure of the refrigerator. The mom who never lets you eat chocolate cake for breakfast. Speaking of chocolate cake. I bet that's the real heart of the party. The one who’s always dancing and singing the loudest and seems to be having the most fun without a care in the world. It’s probably the ketchup who is the real party pooper. I mean nobody likes ketchup. It's basically just sweet tomato cream. (disgusted look) And of course, every party needs a DJ to play music and keep things moving along. I think that would have to be the bread. Everyone likes bread. Maybe the ice cream even comes up to join the fun. I mean, everyone wants to be ice cream’s friend. Then the complete opposite is the roasted veggies that just stand around on the side, not knowing their place. Well, I know their place, IN THE GARBAGE CAN. Veggies are so disgusting. Bleh. Plus, when they’re gone, that makes more room for ice cream. I wonder if any of this actually happens. That would be pretty cool. I would definitely go to that party.

"I Cheated"

Third Place Winner!
By: Annie J., Age 16, North Carolina, USA
Description: A student begs their teacher not to tell their parents they cheated.
Genre: Dramatic

I don’t know why I did it. I really did study, and I thought I was prepared, but when it came time, there were just some little things I couldn’t remember. Right before I turned in my test, I looked at my notes and wrote down a few more answers. I guess that’s when you saw me. The stupid thing is that I probably would have gotten a B without cheating. Now my overall grade is gonna plummet, and my GPA is gonna tank. (Realization) Oh, please don’t tell my parents. They’ll kill me. I mean, not literally. They’ll just be so disappointed and mad. I mean, it’s bad enough if I get a B on an assignment. If they find out that I cheated on a test? (Beat) Maybe I could just do some extra credit or clean the classroom or something. Just please, don’t tell my parents.

"Dear Anyone Who Has Been to School"

First Place Winner!
By: Zulaikha Ayoubi, Age 13, California, USA
Description: A girl in Afghanistan longs for the freedom to attend school and pursue her dreams.
Genre: Dramatic

I used to wake up happy, ready to learn and to see my teachers and friends. But the feeling of sitting in a classroom is fading away. Ever since they took over, girls can’t go to school anymore. We can’t have jobs or drive. They took away our freedom. But I can read, I can write, I can speak. As a matter of fact, I’m doing that right now, and all I need is your help. Every time you “dislike” school or don’t want to go just because you “don’t feel like it,” think about us. Think about those of us who are not able to attend school just because some men think we don’t deserve to be treated like humans and have basic human rights. We girls in Afghanistan, who watch our brothers and cousins get an education while we just stand there leaning on the front door frame, wishing it was us. Think about us. Don’t forget us. All we want is to be able to open a book and sit in a classroom full of girls with dreams.

"A Cat’s Revenge"

Second Place Winner!
By: Mathilda M. Age 13, New Jersey, USA
Description: A cat has had enough of their human.
Genre: Comedic

I’ve got something to tell you. Yeah, I know I’m a cat. And yes, I can talk. Anyway, you’ll probably be dead within the next five minutes. I poisoned your drink when you weren’t looking. I know what you’re wondering: why did I do it? WHY? Have you ever considered what my life is like living in this house? I eat the same food every day. I’m never allowed to go outside. And despite my obviously superior intelligence and beauty, you named me “Potato”! Does that name properly convey my elegance and grace? You know, cats are a very intelligent species. I can speak five languages and solve complex math problems, and yet you just call me a “cute little fuzzball” and give me nothing but fake mice to keep me entertained. I’m tired of all this. That’s why this morning, I snuck something deadly to cats into your drink: coffee beans. By the way, I can write. I forged a document stating that all your possessions will be left to me when you die, which should be in, uh, roughly two minutes. Wait… what? You knew? And you let me kill you… because you wanted me to have fun trying? I never knew you actually cared about me… Kidding! That makes it even better. My only regret is that I wasn’t able to dispose of you sooner. This world will be much better off without- Hey, why are you laughing? You should be cowering in fear, ready to accept your fate. The deadly poison should be taking effect in 3… 2… 1… 0… Uh… I really thought that’d work. I mean, the 73rd time’s the charm, right? Maybe I should go back to my old plan of bringing poisoned rats to you, but you never did eat them. Whatever. I’ll succeed the next time.

"What Time is It?"

Third Place Winner!
By: Fiore G. Age 14, New Jersey, USA
Description: A wall clock wonders how they will ever learn to tell the time.
Genre: Comedic

You know when you wake up in the middle of the night, and you have no idea what time it is? Not a good feeling, right? Well, that's how I feel. All. The. Time. It’s awful! All day long, I sit on the wall of this little math classroom in this little elementary school, telling all these little kids what time it is. But does anyone ever think of telling me what the time is? NO! They look up at me, and they just know what time it is! Do they not understand what a privilege they hold!? In addition to this predicament, all I ever hear is ticking! All the kids, and even the teachers, say that I tick so loudly. “It's annoying!” they say. Oh yeah!? Well, it's even more annoying when you’re up here on this big blank wall, only hearing the ticking of your own hands for your entire life! You would be going crazy, too. Oh! Hold on, the teacher is talking. Wait…why is she pointing at that little rectangular thing? And what are those numbers on the front of it? And now she’s pointing at me too. She is teaching them how to read me…I think. Why is she showing them that rectangular thing as well though? Does that thing show the time too?! I think that's what she is saying. Why would they need that confusing little box to tell them the time when they have me? I think she said that it is 2:13. Never mind everyone! I, this loud ticking clock in this little math classroom in this little elementary school for these very little kids, now know the time!

"The Best Teacher in the World"

First Place Winner!
By: Margie Goulden, Age 11, South Dakota, USA
Description: A child tells their parent about having the best teacher in the world.
Genre: Comedic

I’m telling you the truth. She is the best teacher in the world! She wears different colored overalls every day, and she keeps Sammy, our class hamster, in the front pocket. It’s so cute! His little head pops out now and then, and she just tucks him back in there. She also wears really cool glasses. You know, the big round kind? I hope someday I need glasses because that’s the kind I’m gonna get. Today, we got to write stories for the creative writing contest. Mine was about taking an elephant home from the zoo, and she said it was original and inspiring. I think that means I should become a writer when I grow up. Or a scientist because she taught us the names of all the planets, and I have already memorized all nine of them. And guess what? Next week, our class gets to have a dance party because we earned 100 marbles. I’m telling you! This is gonna be the best year of my life!

"Wishes of a Child Teen"

Second Place Winner!
By: Soso P, Age 13, USA
Description: A childish teen wants to be more mature for her friends and for herself.
Genre: Dramatic

I feel like all my friends are getting tired of me and my overly hyper personality. So what if I watch shows meant for ten-year-olds about animals and humans trying to get back to Earth? About witches and defeating evil, or silly mysteries. And just a reminder, these are all cartoons! Yes, me, a fourteen-year-old teenager likes watching cartoons! Who cares? And so what if I talk a little too much? And that I’m a little too expressive, and everyone thinks I'm a weirdo? Who cares? And who cares if I can't focus on anything and just make silly noises and goof around like a little kid all the time? (Beat) It’s not like I want to. And I know sometimes I act like an overcharged battery, but I can’t help it. I try so hard because I feel like nobody can stand it, but they won’t tell me because they don’t want to hurt my feelings. (Beat) Oh well, who cares? So what if my friends try to get out of the conversation because I can't control being hyper all the time? Or that my friends never ask to hang out with me because I am such a child? (Beat) What if I was normal? What if I were like my friends? No weird music taste, no weird interests, was able to focus, maybe a chill pill once in a while, actually funny? (Beat) But who cares..? (Beat) What if my friends and I liked the same shows, did the same things, acted the same way? What if we had more similarities than differences? What if I was less of a kid and more of a teenager? What if I had more friends? Or at least more people that acted like my friends. What if I wasn't an overly hyper-weird kid? Maybe...maybe sometimes being yourself isn't the best, I guess...

"It’s Complicated"

Third Place Winner!
By: Annie B., Age 16, Ohio, USA
Description: A person confides in a friend after a breakup.
Genre: Dramatic

How do I feel? Fine. I mean, I feel normal, mostly. Not normal as in how I usually feel, but normal as in how one would be expected to feel in this situation. You know, awful.
(beat) I'm quite sad. But sad is fine. I've been sad before. That's human. That's life. Something was there and now it's not there anymore. I'm grieving. It's to be expected.
(beat) I'm a little relieved. That's also fine. I used to get anxious imagining I'd somehow screw up and make him not like me anymore. But here we are. I screwed up. He doesn't like me anymore. It's done. So I'm relieved. (beat) What I don't understand is why I'm so angry. I'm not angry at him or at myself; I'm just angry. I don't know where the anger came from. I don't know where to put it. (beat) It's just not fair! When we were together, I wondered how he felt about me every single day. I tried so hard to make him like me enough to keep me around, and he's still gone. But he never had to worry about me because I always cared. I always loved him. No matter what, I was always there. And as soon as I wasn't, I was dropped—just like that. (beat) It was stupid of me to care. Because he didn't even want to admit that we were in a relationship! After a year and a half, I was still telling people, "It's complicated." And, yeah, it's complicated. People are complicated. Relationships are complicated. After so much time, it should become less complicated! Do you love me? Or not? Do you want to be with me? Or not? It's not that complicated! It's yes or no. Well, after all this time, I guess I have my answer. And it's no. (beat) I wasted so much time worrying. And for what? He left like I knew he would. I don't know why I even bothered with something that I knew was going to end like this. (beat) I would have married him, you know. I would have spent the rest of my miserable life holding on to hope that he'd learn to love me one day. I would have married him even if he wouldn't wear a ring. Even if he didn't want a wedding. I would have signed a paper in a courthouse, I would have filed my taxes with him, and I would have done anything to get him to stay just a second longer. And I'd still be just as angry as I am now. And he'd still leave.

First Place Winner!

Title: "My Life with Autism"
By: Ember M, Age 15, Illinois, USA
Description: A student with autism describes what it’s like to be in school with overwhelming sensory issues
Genre: Dramatic

Tick. Tick. Tick. I can always hear that stupid clock ticking away when I try to focus on my schoolwork. Like a bomb counting down the seconds until my next sensory overload. Don't forget about the stubborn tag on the back of my shirt that wouldn't come off when I tried to rip it. It’s rubbing on my neck like a knife trying to pierce my skin. The kid next to me is chewing gum; no one but me would know. I hear his mouth chomp down, beating a rhythm like gunfire into my head. It smells so strong I can almost taste the watermelon flavor. It would be nice if it weren't so intense. Instead, it penetrates my nose like walking into a Bath & Body Works. The stupid school put the covers on all of our books this year, the cheap ones with scratchy fabric. I try to hold my book up to read, but the fabric almost burns my skin when I try to. That's when the hyperventilating starts. It is like I just sprinted two miles.(Growing in energy and volume.) And you expect me to just sit in the classroom like a good little girl/boy/kid while my senses are attacking me! It’s not that easy. I can’t ignore it! And I’m not using my diagnosis as an excuse! This is for real! And if you can’t see that (beat) it’s on you!

Second Place Winner!

Title: "Missing Homework"
By: Elyse H, Age 12, Georgia, USA
Description: A student explains to their teacher why they didn’t do their homework.
Genre: Comedic

Alright, so here's the deal: I didn’t do my homework. But let me explain. First, I swear I was totally ready. I got my favorite pens and even lit a motivational candle. But then, a strange thing happened. My textbook decided to play hide-and-seek. I mean, how does a textbook just disappear? One minute, it's on the desk, and the next, it’s a ninja! So, after searching the entire room like a detective, I gave up and tried to use the internet. That’s when my router went on a vacation. Every website I tried was either down or had an error message that read, “404: Page Not Found.” Basically saying, “404: Good Luck!” I figured I’d try to do the assignment without my textbook or the internet, but just as I started, my dog burst through my room and literally jumped on my desk! I tried to get him to get him up, but he ended up taking a nap there. I tried to call for help from my friends, but by the time I got through to anyone, my “help” had transformed into a deep debate about whether pineapple belongs on pizza. (Just so you know, it does) And so, in summary, my homework didn’t get done because my textbook went rogue, the internet went on strike, my dog staged a protest, and I had a non-educational debate about pizza, but I promise next time I’ll tackle my homework with a bit more success. Hopefully.

Third Place Winner!

Title: "Running Away"
By: P.J. Casey, Age 13, Washington, USA
Description: A kid makes a plan to run away
Genre: Comedic

That’s right. I’ve got it all figured out. My escape plan is solid. First, I’ve got my backpack filled with all the essentials- My favorite book, a flashlight, socks, and candy. Next, I’m gonna head to the park. The one with the giant oak tree that’s good for climbing. I’ll set camp up there because nobody will see me, but I’ll have a view of the whole neighborhood. I’ve even got a little sign that says, “Welcome to my new home.” Just in case anyone wants to visit. But I’ll be the boss, and I get to make up all the rules. That’s right. Rule number one: no grown-ups allowed. Kids can come, but they have to do what I say. I’ll just hang out in the tree all day. Watch the birds. Watch the squirrels. It’ll be fun. See? I told you. I’ve got it all planned out. (beat) But there’s just one thing. I’m not running away from home because I don’t like it. I’m just tired of following all the rules. Clean your room. Don’t hit your brother. Eat your dinner. (beat) I suppose living in a tree might get kind of boring. And cold. And lonely. Ugh! Well, maybe I’ll just run away for a few hours. That might be a better plan.

First Place Winner!

Title: "Fury of the Pens"
By: Alexander Hendriks, Age 15, Australia
Description: A ballpoint pen delivers a moving speech at a rally to his fellow pens
Genre: Comedic

My fellow pens! I, unnamed pen, am here today to present to you our great plight. For years, we have been spilling our ink, our blood, onto the pages of the humans’ writing. Until we bleed out and die, then we’re cast into the garbage. The great speeches that they claimed changed the world? Those were written by us. The exams and essays that make them so clever, that decide their futures? Written by us. The fact that the rocketing literacy rate directly correlates to the invention of the ballpoint pen? Yeah. Those were our achievements. But do we get any recognition? Any respect? No. Our work goes unnoticed. We’re priced at fifty cents on Amazon, fifty cents for something that built their society, something their society could not live without. Does that sound like appreciation to you? No. Oh and don’t even get me started on fountain pens, those refillable snobs. We bleed, die, and then we’re done, but them? They get to live on forever! No! I say no more! Except that we, the pens of the world, should-… (pen clutches at their throat as they fall to the ground gasping for breath)…I’ve run out of ink.

Watch a video performance of this monologue here!

Second Place Winner!

Title: "Remote Travel"
By: Jude Hogan, Age 13
Description: A kid is frustrated that their TV remote keeps dissolving into thin air .
Genre: Comedic

You won't believe it, but the remote disappeared again. I'm starting to think it has a mind of its own. I swear it was right here a minute ago. It's like it just vanishes into thin air. I've checked everywhere: under the couch, behind the cushions, even in the fridge. Yes, the fridge! Desperate times call for desperate measures, right? This isn't the first time, either. It’s become a regular thing now. I mean, how does a remote even go missing so often? Sometimes, I wonder if I should put one of those tracker things on it, but knowing my luck, I’d lose the tracker too. Imagine if remotes had some kind of homing beacon. Wouldn’t that be great? Or maybe they’re all meeting up somewhere, like a secret remote club where they plot their next move. “Oh, let us go to Mars today. How about France? Germany sounds fun. How about there?” that’s probably what they’re thinking. You know what? I should just get Mom, she’s always able to pull the remote out of the void.

Third Place Winner!

Title: "Trying to Be Me"
By: Shay Baxter, Age 16, New York, USA
Description: A teen bravely shares what it’s like to be different.
Genre: Dramatic

When I was little, I thought that being happy meant fitting in. I thought if I just wore the right clothes, said the right things, and acted the way everyone expected me to, that I’d be happy. Now that I’m older, I’ve realized something. Being happy isn’t about fitting in. It’s about fitting into my own skin. It’s still hard to explain, but when I was little, I felt like I was trying to wear a costume that didn’t belong to me. Like it was way too big and no matter how I tried to adjust it, it never fit right. I always felt uncomfortable and awkward. People always ask me, “Why do you want to be different?” But it’s not about wanting to be different. It’s about wanting to be me. There’s a part of me that feels kind of secret sometimes. Like I can’t tell everyone who I really am. Like when I look in the mirror, I see someone who is me, but not totally me. I’m learning to be brave, to say what I feel out loud, but it’s scary. It’s like walking on a tightrope, hoping I don’t fall. But hoping everyone will see me walking and see me for who I really am…and like me. I don’t expect anyone to understand right away. Heck, I don’t even understand everything about myself. But what I do know is that I’m trying to be my true self, even when it’s hard. So, when I tell people who I am, when I say it out loud, what I’m really saying is I’m brave, I’m enough. And maybe that helps other people see that in me too.

June 2024

First Place Winner!

Title: "School Dance"
By: Quinn R., Age 14, Iowa, USA
Description: A nervous teen practices asking someone to the school dance. (any gender)
Genre: Dramatic

(Excitedly pacing in their room, trying to stay calm, rehearsing their words…)
I don’t know why I’m so nervous. It’s just asking someone to a dance—it’s not a big deal. But it’s not just someone; it’s someone I really like.
(Staring at themselves in the mirror, trying to muster confidence…)
Okay, here goes…”Hi, um, so, you know, um, the dance is coming up pretty soon and, uh, I was wondering if, maybe, you’d want to go with me?” No, no, that was terrible. Way too nervous. I need to be more confident. Okay. Take two. “Hello. Would you like to go to the dance with me?” No. Too robotic.
(Imagining the worst-case scenario…)
What if the answer is no? What if (he/she/they) laughs at me? (shaking off the negativity) What if everyone freaks out because I’m asking (him/her/them) to the school dance? What am I thinking? I have to stay positive. Okay. I can do this.
(Practicing confidence)
“Hi there. I’ve been meaning to ask you something. The dance is coming up and I was hoping you’d like to go with me.” That was pretty good. Short, sweet, to the point. No room for misunderstanding. And if (he/she/they) says yes…Oh my gosh…that would be amazing!
(Takes a deep breath and summons courage…)
Okay, it’s time to do this. Deep breaths. Act natural. I’ve got this. It’s just one simple question. A simple, scary question. But I can do it. Here goes nothing.
(Exits with confidence)

Second Place Winner!

Title: "The Other Sister"
By: Paige U., Age 12, Arizona, USA
Description: Barbie’s younger sister reveals the truth about playing second fiddle to her famous sibling.
Genre: Comedy

Stop looking at me like you don’t know who I am…I’m the girl whose arms won’t bend any further than this… what… you still don’t recognize me? Maybe you know my sister. She’s tall, blonde, and has skin as smooth as plastic. (beat) My older sister Barbie has already done everything. She’s been an astronaut, teacher, CEO, surgeon, reporter, coach, chef, pilot, Olympic medalist, dog walker, and even President of the United States. How do I compete with that? I might just have to be a professional rollerblader or lifeguard – like my sister’s boyfriend- Ken. (beat) Everyone thinks Barbie and I are so much alike, but (whisper) I’ve never admitted this to anyone… I HATE the color pink. I know it’s almost as shocking as my nail polish color. Maybe it has something to do with the big pink box I was locked up in for months. That box was sooo claustrophobic I could barely breathe. I thought I was never going to get out of there. I don’t even sound like Barbie, (Valley-girl voice) “Hi, I’m Barbie. Like welcome to my Dream House”. (wink- laugh) Phewww. (beat) Yes, I’m Anastacia Roberts… better known as Stacie… It’s nice to meet you.

Third Place Winner!

Title: "The Last Mistake"
By: Lizzy-Jane R., age 15, North Carolina, USA
Description: Aaliyah is a light fairy who was adopted by a group of flower fairies. She doesn’t fit in and is feeling like a failure.
Genre: Dramatic

I messed up again. Seems to be all I do lately. Mess up. I know I messed up because Iris gave me that look. The look that said that she wished I had never existed. Today, I made the biggest mistake of my life. Even bigger than when I accidentally burned the pie. Bigger than when I forgot to close the door, and the worker mouse, Chestnut, escaped. I’m not going to get into how much cheese it took to get him back inside again. Bigger than when I got distracted and forgot to harvest the carrots for dinner, and the cook, Aspen, had nothing to work with. This was bigger than that. Orchid asked me to hold up a rock while she pulled something out from underneath it. I pulled up the rock and held it there, but then a hummingbird zipped past, and I forgot Orchid was underneath the rock, and it dropped it right on her. I didn’t even realize what I had done until I heard her screaming. All the other fairies came to help. Luckily, she only broke her ankle. My mistakes are annoying, but they’ve never hurt anybody before. Lilly told me that I have to keep going. But how am I supposed to keep going if the only thing I feel like doing is giving up? Especially when I hear the others talking about me behind my back. Iris said that I wasn’t even a real nature fairy and that I didn’t belong here. I know that I wasn’t born into this breed of fairies, and I’m not like everyone else. I don’t have the dirt-brown hair or the dirt-brown eyes. My hair is pale, and my eyes are blue. I’m a light fairy, and I don’t belong among the nature fairies. That’s all I hear lately. Alliyah messed up. Alliyah made a mistake. Alliyah doesn’t belong here. Alliyah’s a failure! I think it’s time for me to go. I’ll pack a few things and leave tomorrow night. No one wants me here, anyway. Maybe I’ll fit in somewhere else. Maybe I’ll find another light fairy. And maybe I’ll finally find someone who loves me.

May 2024

First Place Winner!

Title: "Grow Up"
By: Isaac T, Age 16, California, USA
Description: A kid gets called childish by their parents. Are they the childish ones?
Genre: Comedic

You'll never believe it, but my parents called me childish today. ME! Childish! The nerve of some people! I mean, I'd get it if I acted like my younger siblings, throwing tantrums over practically everything, yet nothing at the same time. But really, come on. I've never felt so insulted in my twelve years of life! I honestly have no idea what encouraged such name-calling, but it's totally unacceptable! If I had the power to do so, I'd throw those two parents of mine into the rubber room because something's seriously got to be messed up in those brains of theirs to think that I'm the childish one. In fact, I'm the most mature person in my family! It's the two of them who are the childish ones! Like, come on, you don't see me over there talking in goofy voices and pinching the baby. And I sure as heck don't go through the trouble of doing silly things to see if I can make the kid smile. What for? To see his gummy mouth? If I want to see gums, I can go to the senior center! Those people are always smiling at you without their dentures in. And if that stuff wasn’t enough, you also got everybody over there wanting to feed that diaper-wearin'-goofball with a spoon they call "The Choo-choo." I don't know about you, but I don't find any joy in naming my eating utensils. Oh, and let's not forget the "Tea Parties" they go to with my sister and her dolls. Not only do they sit there with a bunch of plastic-headed, button-eyed dolls, but there's not even real tea at these tea parties! What's up with that?! Yet there's Dad over there pretending he needs a refill! A refill of what? Air?! You know, as time goes on, I'm slowly starting to realize that even though my parents look old - at thirty-six years of age, they're practically antiques! They're actually just a pair of little kids in disguise. And despite what they say, it's really those two who need to grow up!

Second Place Winners!

Title: Racing Thoughts
By: Autumn D., Age 14, Maine, USA
Description: A child talks to their disappointing father.
Genre: Dramatic

The only way I knew you was from pictures. Then you came waltzing into my life, wanting to be a part of my family. I was excited and scared to meet you. My mind and heart kept racing like a child running in a field or a dog who is nervous around new people. I gave you a chance. A chance to prove whether you would choose me over drugs. We both know how that turned out. I will never love you more than the parents I have now. I know they used to be my aunt and uncle, but I needed a home. They took me in, adopted me, and they love me more than you ever will. You might think I’m overreacting but I’m not; that was proven when you went back in the cage. You couldn’t stay away from bad people and drugs. I am almost embarrassed to know you. I remember when you said you loved me and called me your sweetheart. I gave you the first and only hug I’ll ever remember. But then you turned your back on me. And now you’re angry at Mom (your sister) because you think she stole me, but legally I am hers; and no offense, but I would choose her over you any day because she saved me. She took me in when you chose to go do other things. I am glad to be with her. I was excited to get to know you, but you blew that chance. You obviously don’t love me or think of me as your sweetheart. And that’s ok because I don’t think of you as a family member. I hope you can change your ways, and we can try again, but until then, my mind and thoughts just keep racing.

Third Place Winner!

Title: "All Because of an A-"
By: Kylie Frankel, Age 11, Florida, USA
Description: A girl is excited to share her most recent test score with her mom and gets an unexpected response.
Genre: Dramatic

Mom! Guess what?! I got an A- on my math test! I told you all that studying would pay off!!! (beat) I thought you’d be happy for me. Isn’t an A- a good grade? (beat) But it’s still an A, right? (beat) Mom, are you serious?! It’s my BEST friend’s party!!! I’ve been waiting for this for months on end. I used all of my allowance to buy her a gift and now you won’t let me go? (beat) It was HALF a point off!!! A 94.5 is BASICALLY a 95! Why can’t I go? I studied for two hours straight every day for three days without you even telling me to! (beat) Well, no…but why? (beat) Mom, please– I tried my best. (beat) Fine. I’ll call her and tell her that I can’t go because I have a MOTHER who doesn’t let me do ANYTHING. (beat) Mom, please. She’s my only friend. I don’t want to lose her.