The Day The Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

Title: The Day the Crayons Quit

Genre: Fiction

Author: Drew Daywalt

Illustrator: Oliver Jeffers

Major awards: E.B White Read Aloud Award

Age group: PreK-2nd

Summary: 

This book is about Duncan, the young owner of a crayon box. While at school, Duncan comes across a series of letters written to him, from his crayons. His crayons each write him a letter, describing their resignation. The illustrations are paired with the letters, and they feature the drawings Duncan has drawn using the crayons. The crayons want more, and they each have their own reasons for quitting. For example, the blue crayon feels overused, and the beige crayon feels underused. The book is full of humor. In the end, Duncan creates a beautiful drawing, using the crayons in different ways. This book explores the idea of creativity! Sometimes its okay to color outside of the norm.

Why would I use this book in the classroom: 

As a future educator, I'd use this book in my classroom to focus on creativity! It's okay to do things differently. Creativity creates authenticity. Students will learn that it's okay to be different. 

Appropriate grade level:

I think an appropriate grade level for this book is PreK-2nd. The story line is perfect for younger students. Students will also be able to relate their experiences of coloring, to this book. Students at this age are also familiar with their colors. They will be able to infer what colors are included in the book, and what those colors are typically used for. The letters are a bit lengthy, but they are fun.

Ideas for unit of study to include the book in and how you might use the book in the classroom:

• Language Arts/Art: I would use this book to lead an activity that focuses on creativity. I'd have students choose a letter from the book. I'd then have them write back. They could then pair their letter with a drawing that they think the crayon would appreciate.