The Picture Book Perspective: The Crayons Go Back to School


Hello, fantastic readers!

Today we’re getting ready for the school season with a colorful bunch that we all know and love: the crayons from Drew Daywalt's series. In The Crayons Go Back to School, our waxy friends are up to their usual antics, bringing humor and heart to the back-to-school jitters. Let's dive into this vibrant tale and explore what makes it a must-read for kids and adults alike.

Historical and Cultural Perspectives

The Crayons Go Back to School is the latest addition to the beloved Crayons series, which began with The Day the Crayons Quit. Drew Daywalt, along with illustrator Oliver Jeffers, has created a world where crayons have feelings, personalities, and a knack for comedic timing. The series has been praised for its clever storytelling and unique approach to addressing children’s emotions and conflicts.

In this book, we see the crayons getting ready for school, each one dealing with their own set of anxieties and expectations. This mirrors the real-life experiences of kids heading back to school, making it culturally relevant and relatable.

Social-Emotional Content

This book is a treasure trove of social-emotional learning. Each crayon represents different emotions and challenges that kids might face when going back to school. From Red Crayon's excitement to Blue Crayon's nervousness, the story provides a platform to discuss various feelings and how to manage them.

The humor woven throughout the book helps to lighten the mood and makes these conversations more accessible. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions, and sometimes, a little laughter is the best way to deal with those back-to-school butterflies.

Using the Book for Kids: Tips for Parents and Teachers

  1. Color and Emotions: Use the crayons to discuss emotions. Ask kids which crayon they relate to the most and why. This can help them articulate their feelings about going back to school.

  2. Creative Writing: Have children write a letter from their favorite crayon’s perspective about their first day of school. This encourages empathy and creative thinking.

  3. Art Project: Get out the crayons and have a drawing session where kids illustrate their own back-to-school experiences. They can use different colors to express different feelings.

  4. Classroom Discussion: Use the book as a starting point for a classroom discussion about what to expect in the new school year. Encourage kids to share their hopes and fears.

  5. Role-Playing: Act out scenes from the book. This can help children practice social skills and explore different ways to handle school-related situations.

Humorous Takeaway

If there's one thing we've learned from The Crayons Go Back to School, it's that even crayons have their quirks. Green Crayon is worried about being eco-friendly, Beige Crayon is concerned about being overlooked, and Yellow and Orange are still bickering about the true color of the sun. It’s a hilarious reminder that everyone, even our trusty crayons, has their own unique perspective on going back to school.

So, whether you're feeling like a well-sharpened Blue or a stubby little Peach (who still hasn't gotten over being naked in The Day the Crayons Quit), remember that school is a place for all of us to grow, learn, and maybe even find a little humor along the way.

Until next time, keep your crayons sharp and your smiles bright because:

Where There's A. Williams, There's A Way.

Happy reading and happy back-to-school season!

Adam

To buy your own copy (and support this blog) click here



Do you have a picture book for Adam to review? Email us your suggestion at beastlybanterblog@gmail.com

About the Author

Adam Williams is a dedicated elementary school teacher with a passion for literacy and children's literature. Married to Leigha, Adam is a proud father to a son named Tate and a daughter named Emery. He is known for his engaging read-aloud videos on his YouTube channel, "Where There's A. Williams, There's A Way," where he brings picture books to life for his audience. The Picture Book Perspective is published every Sunday. In his blog, he explores the historical and cultural contexts of picture books, delves into their social-emotional content, and offers insights for parents and teachers on how to use these books effectively with children. 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Hot 'n Hungry: Doro Wat

Image
Hello, spice lovers and food adventurers! Acorn and Woody here, your dynamic duo diving into the hottest dishes from around the globe. Today, we're bringing you a taste of Africa with the legendary Ethiopian dish: Doro Wat. Buckle up, because this one is packed with history, flavor, and a whole lot of heat!
Read more

The Picture Book Perspective: Julian Is a Mermaid

Image
Hello, wonderful readers! This week, we're taking a deep dive into the whimsical and heartwarming world of Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love. Grab your flippers and floaties because this tale is about to make a big splash in your hearts! Historical and Cultural Perspectives Julian Is a Mermaid is a relatively recent addition to the picture book scene, having been published in 2018. Jessica Love both wrote and illustrated this book, bringing a fresh and inclusive perspective to children's literature. The story centers on Julian, a young boy who dreams of becoming a mermaid after witnessing a group of them on the subway. Set against the vibrant backdrop of a New York City summer, the book celebrates cultural diversity and the rich tapestry of urban life. The vibrant, watercolor illustrations capture the essence of the city and the joyful, liberating experience of embracing one's true self. The narrative’s roots in Pride and celebration of individuality reflect a growing r...
Read more

The Picture Book Perspective: What Miss Mitchell Saw

Image
Hello, fellow book lovers! This Sunday, we're setting our sights on the stars and uncovering the inspiring true story behind What Miss Mitchell Saw by Hayley Barrett, illustrated by Diana Sudyka. This beautifully illustrated picture book tells the tale of Maria Mitchell, the first professional female astronomer in the United States, who discovered a comet in 1847 using a telescope she had from her father.
Read more