WRITTEN BY ROB FLANNERY In Partnership with Harry’s Rainbow
A heartwarming story about love, loss, memories and the lasting impact we leave on one another.
“Craig the Crayon Leaves a Mark” is an amazing picture book that helps children understand complicated emotions through the use of storytelling and illustration.
Written by Rob Flannery, and illustrated by Samie Iliffe, the book narrates the story of Callum’s drawing with his most loved red crayon, ‘Craig’. The story gently explores how Callum’s drawings, and people in his life, make an imprint in his world and how the love that is poured into each creation outlasts the crayon.
Using fun rhymes, beautiful illustrations, and a story that links moments in time captured by Craig the red crayon, the author offers children the opportunity to talk about big confusing emotions that arise from the loss of something deeply loved. Feelings of grief felt by children when they lose a beloved toy are similar to the big feelings of grief children feel when a loved one dies. Using story books to explore these feelings is a good starting point for conversation, Craig the Crayon left a mark on Callum’s life, as people leave a lasting mark on children’s lives. A red crayon can be replaced, but it may never be the same as Callum’s beloved Craig.
At Harry’s Rainbow we are acutely aware that it is not easy to discuss grief and loss, especially for children, it can be hard to find the right words, that’s why we are so grateful for Rob creating a book in partnership with us so families can start that conversation. Rob is a fantastic supporter of Harry’s Rainbow, and it gives us great pleasure that 15% of all profits from this book will be donated to Harry’s Rainbow to continue our support for bereaved children.
Odette Mould MBE, Founder and CEO of Harry’s Rainbow, explains:
“This book is for all children with big feelings, missing someone they love. You matter and you are not alone.”
Rob Flannery, author, explains:
“Craig the Crayon leaves a mark started as an idea to support boys with their emotions. Given the men’s mental health crisis, I believe talking about feelings, particularly difficult ones, should start at a young age to help us learn to process them better. As a father of two young boys, I wanted to inspire my sons, other parents and all children to talk comfortably about their emotions. After producing the book, partnering with Harry’s Rainbow felt like a natural fit. As a long-time supporter of the charity, I know the important work it does and hope Craig the Crayon Leaves a Mark can help open conversations for the bereaved children and families it supports within their programme.”
Reviews
Morgan Perkins “a heartwarming and beautifully written book,”
Mrs B “great illustrations and a wonderful message.”
James Dove “Lovely book, well written and our daughter loved it.”
