The Sharpest Crayon

October 8, 2026 Ms. Jennifer Picture Books

This is a book about learning to let go of perfectionist tendencies.

Book Title: The Sharpest Crayon
Author: Maggie Kramer
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9798999947765
Number of Pages: 40
Date Published: September 15, 2026

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Review

Disclosure: The publisher provided this for review via NetGalley.

Violet is a crayon who likes things to be a certain way. She learns that everyone does not have the same standards that she does.

The point that the book is trying to make is very positive and inspiring. Unfortunately, the writing does not flow well and energetically it feels scattered. The ideas are apparent and they make sense, but they are not always linked together in a coherent manner. This leaves the reader wondering what they missed. Nothing was missed, it just isn’t written clearly.

However, this style might appeal to those who tend to jump from topic to topic without acknowledgment or transition. There is no judgment on that, this is how some people process information and experiences.

On the bright side, the artwork is very beautiful, whimsical, and fun. Children will love it simply for the pictures. Towards the middle of the story, the writing improves and is easier to follow. Yet for me, this book is more appropriate for teaching about imagination than it is for teaching about anxiety or expanding one’s world by trying new things.

Ms. Jennifer
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