The Day the Crayons Quit was given to us by a dear friend, and I’m so glad that she did! It is an original, humorous and highly imaginative children’s story. I feel it would appeal to the elder of the picture book audience although our 5 year old found it hilarious. The illustrations are quirky and fun and perfectly capture the mood of each crayon and are produced by Oliver Jeffers, the creator of Lost & Found.
The Story: Poor Duncan is presented with quite a challenge when one day he opens his colouring box: his crayons have quit! In their place he discovers a number of handwritten letters, one from each crayon, each providing the reason for their resignation. Red is worn out! With so many fire engines, apples, Santas and Valentine hearts to colour he is feeling overworked! Beige is fed up with being second fiddle to brown whilst yellow and orange have fallen out over who should be picked to colour the sun. Pink doesn’t just want to be a girlie colour and white is feeling empty. But what should Duncan do?!
As well as a super book to share with your child, The Day the Crayons Quit would serve as a valuable resource in the classroom to pave the way for numerous activities: writing letters to and from inanimate objects, activities about using colour imaginatively; drama work; problem solving and conflict resolution between friends as well as a starting point for many meaningful discussions both at home or at school.
Age Range: 5 +
Author: Drew Daywalt / Illustrator: Oliver Jeffers
About Polly Walker
Polly Walker is the author of ‘Worm, Slug, Maggot & Leech and their Troublesome Transformation!’ due for release on 12th September, available to pre order now. Drawing on previous experiences of mainstream primary school teaching and working within Special Educational Needs, her book has a theme around self-esteem, identity and diversity.
Polly currently works in the field of conflict resolution and is hoping to produce a sequel to her book.
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