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In the book Red: A Crayon’s Story, a young crayon learns that it is ok to show your “true” color. “He was red. But he wasn’t very good at it.” Even though the crayon is labeled red, everything comes out blue. Parents, grandparents, teachers and friends try to “help” the crayon by telling him to try harder or practice more. He tries his hardest to be Red, but after multiple failed attempts, begins to believe in the notion that he is truly broken. That is until a new friend asks him a daring question, “Will you make a blue ocean for my boat?” Reluctant at first, Red tries and learns the most important lesson one can learn in life. Author Michael Hall tells a story that everyone can relate to, a story about finding your true, authentic self.
This book is truly special. EVERYONE needs to learn how to celebrate who they truly are on the inside. This is especially important for the young audience that Michael Hall writes for. In a superficial world, children need to hear the importance of celebrating who they are. Even more importantly, this book serves to be a valuable lesson to adults as well. Children will be who they are “allowed” to be. Families need to learn the importance of exploration, discovery and acceptance.
