The Day the Crayons Quit

The Day the Crayons Quit

book

2013, Children's Books, Arts, Music & Photography

WISE
93%

WISE Score

4.8

Amazon

Crayons go on strike in this hilarious, clever picture book that's become a modern classic for good reason.

Amazon4.8
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

Amazon
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble
Libby
Libby

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those rare picture books that deserves its bestseller status. The concept is fresh and funny, the execution is sharp, and it actually teaches something valuable about empathy and problem-solving without feeling like a lesson.

The letter format is genius—each crayon has a distinct personality and legitimate grievance (Blue is tired of coloring all the water, Beige feels neglected, Orange and Yellow are in a fight about who's the real sun). Kids love the humor, and parents appreciate that it's not annoying to read for the 47th time.

It's also genuinely useful for teaching perspective-taking. Kids start to understand that everyone experiences the same situation differently, which is a foundational empathy skill. Plus it might inspire some creative writing or art projects.

At over a decade old, it's still completely fresh and engaging for modern kids. No dated references, no tired tropes—just a smart, funny book that works.

Age Fit

Perfect for ages 3-8, though the humor lands best around 4-7 when kids can appreciate the absurdity and relate to the crayons' complaints. Adults genuinely enjoy reading it aloud, which makes it a win for bedtime rotation.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
92

Models problem-solving, empathy, and perspective-taking through Duncan's need to understand each crayon's complaints. The crayons express their feelings without meanness—they're frustrated but communicate their needs clearly. Humor is gentle and clever, never cruel. The resolution involves compromise and appreciation for different viewpoints.

Imaginative
95

Brilliant concept that personifies crayons with distinct personalities and grievances. The letter format is inventive and unexpected for a picture book. Oliver Jeffers' illustrations are bold and playful. Directly celebrates creativity and self-expression while inviting kids to think about everyday objects in completely new ways. The premise itself sparks imaginative thinking about what other objects might say if they could talk.

Safe
98

Zero concerning content. No violence, scary moments, or mature themes. The 'conflict' is crayons complaining about their workload and wanting recognition—completely age-appropriate and relatable. No surprise elements that would upset young readers. This is as safe as picture books get.

Enriching
88

Teaches conflict resolution, empathy, and the importance of seeing multiple perspectives. Kids learn that everyone has different needs and feelings worth considering. The letter format introduces a functional writing style. Encourages discussion about fairness, compromise, and creative problem-solving. Also genuinely funny, which makes the lessons stick. Not deeply educational in academic terms, but strong on emotional intelligence and creative thinking.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Actually funny—kids and parents both laugh, which is rare in picture books
  • Teaches empathy and perspective-taking without being preachy (each crayon has legitimate complaints)
  • The letter format is clever and introduces functional writing in an entertaining way
  • Bold illustrations from Oliver Jeffers that match the humor perfectly
  • Sparks creativity—kids start thinking about what other objects might complain about
⚠

What to Watch For

  • Some kids might get anxious about the crayons being 'upset' but the tone is lighthearted throughout
  • May inspire your kid to write complaint letters about their own toys (feature, not bug?)

Conversation Starters

  • "If your toys could write you letters, what do you think they'd say?"
  • "Which crayon do you think has the best complaint? Why?"
  • "How would you solve the problem between Orange and Yellow about who's the real color of the sun?"
  • "Do you ever feel like one of these crayons—like you're always asked to do the same thing?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic

Writing about The Day the Crayons Quit? Put this WISE score on your site