Happy 2026! Dr. Toughlove recommends that you start the new year by reading a review of a colorful book – The Crayon Man: The True Story of Crayola Crayons. Enjoy!
Happy New Year! Dr. Toughlove is turning back the hands of time to reminisce about her very vivid recollection of owning her first box of Crayola crayons. While Dr. Toughlove is reticent about disclosing what year that was, she will share that she was in kindergarten and while walking to school, clutched her prized possession as if it was gold. Dr. Toughlove has warm recollections of using crayons when she arrived at school.
With that as a backdrop it is hardly surprising that Dr. Toughlove fell in love with the non-fiction book The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons written by Natascha Biebow and illustrated by Steven Salerno.
When Dr. Toughlove first saw this book, she was struck by Steven Salerno’s COLORFUL illustrations. Bright, vibrant pictures were everywhere. She also learned about Edwin Binney, who was an entrepreneur who invented the first dustless white chalk. Never one to rest on his laurels, he wanted to make a coloring stick that was safe for children to use. His wife was a teacher, knew what children needed, and encouraged Edwin to pursue his dream. He worked tirelessly, in secret, to perfect his product. Natascha Biebow’s text presents a rather complex scientific concept in words that young children can comprehend. Steven Salerno’s illustrations add visual interest and convey many thoughts and ideas that are unstated but are integral to the story.
Edwin Binney was fortunate to find a partner who complimented his entrepreneurial spirit. His cousin, C. Harold Smith worked with him to perfect and market his invention. Thus, the partnership of Binney & Smith was born and these new, revolutionary crayon boxes were displayed at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair.
At the back of the book, there is a wonderful two-page spread that outlines how Crayola crayons are made today. In addition, there is a brief biography of Edwin Binney and a bibliography that includes books, articles, websites and videos. If a child (or an adult for that matter) has a keen interest in Crayola crayons and other Crayola products, they can visit the Crayola Experience at Easton, PA. You can learn more at https://www.crayolaexperience.com/easton.
The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons is an ideal book for children aged 6-9 years, but can be read to older youngsters as well. Adults will probably enjoy it too. It is available at your local library.