Category Archives: Student Creative Writing

“Dear Daniel” (Advice Column)

By: Daniel Kendle

Hey guys, it’s me: Jake Paul — except not really. Actually, my name is Daniel, and I’m a senior here at, uh…(types on keyboard) Highland Park Senior High. Something like that, anyway.

As among this school’s most knowledgeable, attractive, and overall indispensable members, I thought it sensible to, in my twilight months here, shed some wisdom off onto you fledgling students. Like a mother bird to their wailing young, I shall regurgitate the writhing, worm-like information I’ve amassed over the last few years into your pitch-black maws, allowing your remaining years here to be as gentle and relaxed as mine were.

Thus, I sent out a poll on Instagram to all of my followers, asking for any burning questions they may have about either moi or other, less interesting junk. I’ve sampled 5 questions I received there, so without further ado, let’s crack these suckers open!

. . .

Dear Daniel,

“What’s 9 + 10?”

  • Angie V.

First-off, thank you for responding to the poll, Angie, as this is a great question. To solve this problem, simply adding the numbers 9 and 10 together — combining them, essentially — will result in the answer of 19. I hope that helps you with your homework endeavors.

Dear Daniel,

“How do you stay so sharp?”

  • Miranda S.

Well, I-! (Chuckles) I wasn’t expecting this at 10 in the morning! My kindest regards to you, Miranda, for such a delightful question. Now, as for staying so sharp, tch…I use a whetstone pretty often, actually.

Dear Daniel,

“What would happen if the sun grew at 1 inch per second?”

  • Chicory S.

Ah, a science-related question! Glad to see one make the list; I’ve always been interested in ‘Hamlet,’ ‘The Odyssey’ and the like. Put simply, Chicory, I think a lot of people would die, of course. Animals too, even. Heck — let’s just throw plants into there as well! I also think the sun would look a lot bigger from Earth, too, so that’s pretty cool. This wraps up the extent of this scenario’s consequences, I believe.

Dear Daniel,

“Are cozy video games really that bad?”

  • Munira A.

That’s an interesting question, Munira. I’m relatively-famous for my supposed disdain for “cozy games” — even briefly starting a cult around this notion — but to be honest, they’re…fine. I do actually hate the cozy game aesthetic you see so many YouTubers decorate their rooms to mimic, but as for the games themselves, I don’t mind them all that much. I don’t play them often, though I do plan on checking out some of the more popular titles someday, like ‘Stardew Valley.’

I guess I just enjoy games that offer difficulty and challenge from harsher means than growing crops. Y’know, there’s a difference between stressing over optimal soy bean harvesting and stressing over killing a blood demon, or whatever. One scenario isn’t “better” than the other, per say, but I simply enjoy the latter much more.

And now, finally… 

Dear Daniel, 

“What’s the best way to cook boxed mac n’ cheese?”

  • Chicory S.

Well, pushing aside the fact that mac n’ cheese is disgusting regardless of how it’s cooked, I believe a cardboard box over an open flame is the ideal method of cooking it. (Chuckles) I mean, there’s a reason “box” is in the name, after all.

Anyways, those were just a mere sampling of questions received from this little social experiment. Thanks for reading, and hey — if any of you guys know a doctor, can you ask about how to safely remove cardboard from a human stomach? Thanks in advance; I’ve been meaning to go for the past week, but anytime I stand up, blood starts leaking from my ears. Cheers!

The Christmas glow

By: Canaan Nonnemacher

Image created with Microsoft Copilot

The smell of balsam fills the room, as colorful lights begin to bloom. Red and green on every street, and candy canes for a sugary treat.

We hang stockings by the fire, as the snowy drifts grow even higher. The kitchen hums with holiday cheer, the best and brightest time of year.

The reindeer fly across the moon, to classic, catchy Christmas tune. Wrapped in ribbons, gold and bright, waiting for magic of the night.

So grab a scarf and join the fun, with joy and peace for everyone. The silver bells begin to ring, for all the wonder Christmas brings.

🦃 Simple Thanks

By: Canaan Nonnemacher

image from Gemini

The air is cold, but the sun is shining brightly. We all get together as the daylight starts to fade. The food smells warm and amazing, it feels like a cozy, happy, autumn day.

The window glass looks frosty and cold, like the season’s rain has finally been washed away. Everything feels calm and peaceful inside the room, getting rid of any bad feelings the winter might bring.

We take a moment to think about all the things we’re thankful for: like our home, our friends, and lots of other stuff. We share laughs and stories around the dinner table, just pausing to enjoy how happy we are together. We remember the strong, quiet love of our family, which you can see in everyone’s eyes. We’re thankful for people who helped us and cared, and for all the good times we’ve had.

We appreciate the food that came from the farm and everything the earth gives us to eat. We see the steaming dishes and the perfectly baked crusts it’s a moment made of simple love and trust.

It’s just a simple meal, and a simple moment of thanks, but love fills this comfortable spot. We eat and talk until we’re finished, knowing it was a wonderful day. We hang out for a long time, even when it gets late, with a bond of love that will last forever. And when we finally say our goodbyes, a sweet, thankful feeling stays with us.