You Need to Read: Duncan's Crayons

In the modern classic, The Day the Crayons Quit, we are introduced to Duncan's Crayons. Each Crayon has a grievance to bring to Duncan's attention in the form of a written letter. From being used too much, to having exclusive rights over the color of the sun, these are grave complaints! Serious to the Crayons, but humorous to the reader, this book has become beloved by many.

So... Crayons (and Duncan,) listen up! Here are a few books that might give you some new ideas on conflict resolution, as well as some other creative outlets to bring to Duncan's attention.

Still Life

Written by Alex London

Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky

New York: Greenwillow Books, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, 2024. Picture Book.

Crayons, you'll recognize that these illustrated characters are also having a rough time of it. There is a poor dragon who needs rescuing, but this is supposed to be a still life painting... where nothing moves... ever! They aren't even supposed to be there, what will happen?

P.S. This book has the added benefit of bringing still life painting to Duncan's attention with simple explanations from the artist main character. I see a vaction in your future.

I'm Sorry You Got Mad

Written by Kyle Lukoff

Illustrated by Julie Kwon

New York: Dial Books for Young Readers, 2024. Picture Book.

Another letter-writing whiz, Jack, learns to express his feelings and how to apologize when he's done something wrong to his friend, Zoe, with help from his teacher. Can you say tips for Duncan (and just maybe you too, Crayons.) Anyone?

I Can Draw! Animals: 50 Simple Step-by-Step Guides

Witten by William Potter

Illustrated by Hui Skipp

London: Sirius Publishing, a division of Arcturus Publishing Limited, 2024. Informational. 96 pages.

For those of you, Crayons, who want to be used more... here is a whole book of ideas for Duncan! Especially, since he really seems to love drawing animals (thanks for that tidbit, Gray Crayon.) Apologies in advance to those of you who are worn out. There's no pleasing everyone, okay?!

How to Be a Color Wizard: Forage and Experiment with Natural Art Making

Written by Jason Logan

Illustrated by Jason Fulford

Somerville, MA: MIT Kids Press, 2024. Informational. 163 pages.

Here's one budding artist, Duncan, will likely be interested in. This also serves as one last ditch effort to steer him to other mediums (for those of you who are exhausted,) and to the knowledge that color can come from many places. The author, celebrated ink maker Jason Logan, includes chapters on gatherng materials, how to then transform said materials into dye, and ways to share these creations with others.

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