The Crayon Box that Talked is a sweet story about a box of crayons that just can't get along! Red doesn't like blue, and green doesn't like yellow! No one knows why; they are just different. However, throughout the story, the crayons learn that together they can make beautiful pictures. This would be a great story to use on the first day to discuss diversity and to enhance a sense of classroom belonging. Everyone is important is important in my classroom, and the picture isn't complete when one of my friends is missing! This book is appropriate for K-3 grades.
I really enjoyed reading about the evolving friendship between Jess and Leslie, and I believe many students could relate. When I first read the book in 4th grade, the climax was shocking and that feeling has never left me. It's one of the books I remember most from my childhood. One concept to focus on in the classroom is imagery. This book paints vivid pictures with its details. A teacher could pass out art supplies, read a vivid excerpt from the book, and have students create what they see. It would be interesting to see all of the different images that are created.