Smartly designed and appealing, Red’s story offers much for discussion and affirmation. Finding strength in his difference, Red captures that feeling of ease, self-acceptance and freedom in an exuberant, far-reaching sky. And while the crayons themselves are not expressive, Hall’s compositions, manipulation of text, and simulated graphite and crayon markings convey a strong sense of emotion. Digital illustrations, done in a graphic, cut-paper style in a primary palette, pop on their white or black backgrounds. The personified crayons change their tune, claiming to have always known his true color. When Red succeeds, he feels free! He feels himself, and drawing becomes a delight. Until Berry asks him to draw something blue. But all fail to look beyond Red’s wrapper to what’s inside. The other art supplies offer a makeover, taping and snipping away. Some say he needs to press harder or grow out of it others say he’s lazy or unintelligent. Red tries to be a quintessential red crayon, coloring fire trucks, strawberries, hearts and cherries, but no matter the object, they all turn blue. When a red-labeled crayon discovers he’s actually blue, he finds joy, ebullience and acceptance.
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