Red: A Crayon's Story
Red: A Crayon's Story by Michael Hall is a picture book for children aged 3-8, consisting of 40 pages. The story follows a crayon with a red label who discovers they are, in fact, blue. Despite repeated attempts by others—including a teacher, mother, and scissors—to make the crayon act 'red,' the crayon consistently produces blue marks, leading to frustration and unhappiness. The narrative explores themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the importance of being true to one's inner self regardless of external labels or expectations. The book is lauded for its insightful and heartwarming message, appealing to readers of all ages and prompting discussions on self-discovery and appreciating differences.
Concerns
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
HighWhile the book does not explicitly use LGBTQ+ terminology, it is widely interpreted by educators, librarians, and various communities as a powerful allegory for gender identity, particularly transgender and non-binary experiences. Many sources highlight its use as a resource for discussing these themes with children.
The book is frequently included in lists of LGBTQIA+ children's books and its narrative of a crayon with a 'red' label but an 'inner blue' identity is seen as mirroring the experience of individuals whose assigned gender does not match their internal gender identity. An educator's guide explicitly suggests using the book to 'explore the concept of gender identity with students,' discussing 'non-binary students,' and comparing Red's feelings to a transgender individual, recommending 'I Am Jazz' for comparison.
Scary & Intense Content
MediumWhile the book is not scary or horror-focused, Red experiences emotional distress, misery, and frustration due to the pressure to conform and the inability to be authentically 'red.' This struggle could be mildly intense for very young or sensitive children.
Red is described as 'miserable' and experiences 'despair, sadness, [and] frustration' because he 'just can't be red, no matter how hard he tries.' The book depicts Red feeling 'humiliated in front of his classmates' and eventually 'stormed off in a fit of frustration' when he fails to draw red.
Disrespect & Rebellion
MediumThe central theme involves Red's 'rebellion' against the label given at the factory and the expectations of his teacher and mother to draw red. This is portrayed positively as self-discovery, but inherently involves defying external authority and societal norms.
Red repeatedly fails to fulfill the explicit instructions from his teacher to 'draw a red strawberry' and from his mother, who suggests he 'mix with other colors' to 'draw a nice, round orange.' The entire premise of the story is Red's persistent inability to conform to the 'red' label and the ultimate affirmation of his true 'blue' identity, which can be seen as a positive form of rebellion against being mislabeled.
Violence
LowThe book contains no physical violence, gore, or graphic depictions. However, it portrays instances of emotional pressure and discouraging remarks from other characters towards Red, which could be considered mild emotional harm for a sensitive reader.
Other crayons make critical comments about Red's inability to draw red, such as, 'He's got to press harder,' 'I think he's lazy,' and 'I don't think he's very bright.' Additionally, when Red tries to mix with Yellow to create an orange, Yellow exclaims 'Yuck,' which reinforces Red's feeling of being 'disgusting' or wrong.
Romance and Sexual Content
LowThere is no romantic or sexual content present in the book. The narrative focuses solely on the crayon's internal struggle with identity and external expectations.
The book's plot revolves around a crayon named Red attempting to draw in red and eventually discovering its true blue color. There are no characters engaging in romantic gestures, suggestive language, or implied sexual activity.
Profanity
LowThe book contains no profanity, strong language, or objectionable words. The dialogue is simple and appropriate for young children.
Character interactions are limited to simple sentences and observations related to Red's drawing abilities and perceived color. There are no instances of curse words or offensive language.
Witchcraft & Occult
LowThere are no elements of witchcraft, sorcery, occult practices, magic rituals, demons, spells, or supernatural themes in the book. The story is a straightforward allegory about identity.
The narrative focuses on a sentient crayon's journey of self-discovery within a literal art supply context. No characters possess magical powers, engage in rituals, or encounter supernatural beings.
Substance Use
LowThe book contains no depictions or mentions of alcohol, drugs, smoking, or any other substance use.
The story is set in a world of art supplies and does not involve any human or anthropomorphic characters engaging in substance-related activities.
Anti-Christian Themes
LowThe book does not contain any anti-Christian themes, mockery of Christian beliefs, or sacrilegious acts. It is secular in its narrative focus on identity and self-acceptance. One Goodreads review, from a self-identified Christian, interprets the acceptance shown in the book as aligned with 'the true nature of Christianity (IMO).'
The story centers on the journey of a crayon finding its true color and does not touch upon religious or spiritual topics. There are no characters or plot points that directly or indirectly challenge or disrespect Christian faith or symbols.
Other Notes
Target Demographic
Ages 3-8 (Pre-K to 3rd Grade). The book's simple language and vivid illustrations are accessible for young children, while its themes of identity and self-acceptance resonate with early elementary students.
Additional Notes
Parents should be aware that while the book's core message is about self-acceptance, its widely recognized interpretation as an allegory for gender identity and transgender experiences may lead to discussions on these topics in educational settings or among peers. The author has stated the story is personal to him, reflecting his experience with dyslexia, yet has not explicitly disavowed the gender identity interpretation, allowing for multiple layers of meaning.
Related Reviews
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