THE CRAYONS' BOOK OF MANNERS

Daywalt and Jeffers’ crayons get schooled in etiquette.

Our stubby, waxy friends have learned many lessons over the years, but they still might need some practice when it comes to manners. Daywalt sets up the framework with a comically exaggerated statement at the start: “Duncan’s crayons are perfect little angels, who never, ever misbehave and always use their manners. Always, always, always.” Several crayons pose nearby, smiling and hugging, but readers will notice the black crayon making the bunny ears gesture behind the blue crayon—a hint that these characters might not be as angelic as described. The pages that follow each highlight one polite expectation, while the illustrations depict a conflicting behavior. When Daywalt asserts, “They always say ‘please,’” Jeffers’ accompanying image shows the yellow crayon simply shouting, “Gimme!” And when we’re told that the crayons “always share,” the illustration shows the red crayon surrounded by toys while another looks on forlornly. The creators mine humor from bodily functions: “And they never toot at their brother. “ (The blue crayon’s response to the puff of gas? “C’mon man, seriously? Dude. WHY?”) All is forgiven in the end, though, when they realize they aren’t perfect; what matters is apologizing for their missteps—sound advice. Once more, Daywalt relies on archly funny narration, with Jeffers contributing minimalist depictions of his winsome cast in action.

Lessons in what not to do, whimsically delivered by a crew of characters still figuring it out for themselves.