You’ll never look at a box of crayons the same after reading The Crayon Box that Talked by Shane DeRolf! It’s a profound story filled with philosophical life lessons and expressive illustrations. DeRolf cleverly uses this everyday tool of children’s play as a metaphor for the classroom community, or even society at large! A box (classroom/society) full of crayons (people) each a different color (different races, religions, cultures, traditions and a multitude of characteristics) that don’t like each other for no actual reason. A little girl changes that by drawing a picture using each crayon and creates something beautiful! This sends a clear and powerful message about how valuing diversity and working together is what makes life joyful and complete. DeRolf’s simple rhyming words coupled with Letzig’s emotive child-friendly illustrations, are a perfect pairing for children of all ages.