Audrey Petty

“How do we define beauty in a neighborhood plagued by violence?” This is a question that the children of Englewood’s Harvard School of Excellence search to answer. Living in one of the most dangerous areas of Chicago, seventh and eighth grade students aim to concentrate on the positive aspects, as well as their hopes and dreams, in this collection of essays published by the creative writing and tutoring organization 826Chi.

Every piece is a story that explores the ideas of community and show more identity, where individuals face love, loss, hardship, and success. Essays topics include completing volunteering projects, overcoming social pressures, anticipating fun and peaceful summers, basketball and rapping aspirations, and more. Based on real events experienced by these young authors, each narrative is expressed through dynamic language and illustration that allows the audience to believe, understand, and feel.

Even a Lion examines the perspectives of reality through a lens that displays the inspiration and wishes of the youth of Chicago. They paint a picture of life that one must combat, conquer, and change. show less

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