by Cyrus Webb
Seeing the success of my first children's book, The Black Crayon, has been both humbling and affirming. Knowing that this book has sparked conversations, comforted young readers, and helped children feel seen reminds me why this work matters. This journey has strengthened my belief that stories can heal, empower, and create space for every child to recognize their value and voice.
You have made a name for yourself as a passionate educator. What led you to writing a series?
I have made a name for myself as a passionate educator by leading with empathy, purpose, and an unwavering belief in my students. Writing a series grew naturally from my work in the classroom, where I witnessed the untold stories my students carried with them every day. Their struggles, resilience, and strength inspired me to become a voice for experiences that are often overlooked or misunderstood. This series was born of a desire to honor their stories, validate their emotions, and remind every child that they are not alone and that their stories matter.
What I appreciated so much about the first book was the idea that all of us have a purpose and belong in the world. When did you realize your own purpose?
What I appreciated most about the first book was the message that every one of us has a purpose and a place where we belong in the world. I realized my own purpose while teaching in urban education when I saw and heard firsthand the struggles my students faced each day. Their stories, resilience, and need to be seen made it clear that my role went beyond teaching content. I was there to listen, to advocate, and to help them find their voice. That experience shaped my purpose and continues to guide the work I do both inside and outside the classroom.
Teaching in itself it a profession of service. What has it been like to see the impact you've been able to have both on students and other educators?
Seeing the impact of my work has been deeply meaningful. With students, it has been powerful to watch them grow not only academically, but also emotionally, gaining confidence, feeling seen, and realizing their own worth. Knowing that my presence and voice have helped them navigate challenges reminds me why this work matters. Equally rewarding has been the impact on other educators, especially in creating spaces where they feel encouraged, affirmed, and inspired to teach with authenticity and care. Being able to influence both students and fellow educators has reinforced my belief that service-driven teaching creates lasting change far beyond the classroom.
What should we expect next from the COMPASSIONATE CRAYON SERIES?
You can expect the Compassionate Crayon Series to continue growing as a meaningful collection of stories that celebrate identity, self-love, and social acceptance in a bright, colorful world. Each book will spotlight a different emotional or social experience that children often navigate, helping them see themselves reflected in the characters. The series is intentionally designed to support students in developing and demonstrating Social Emotional Learning (SEL) skills such as empathy, self-awareness, resilience, and kindness.
What do you hope young readers who either read the book or have it read to them get from THE BLACK CRAYON?
My hope for young readers who read The Black Crayon, or have it read to them, is that they develop a strong sense of self-awareness and self-identity. I want them to feel comfortable with who they are on the inside and to understand that their feelings, differences, and experiences matter. Above all, I hope the story helps children recognize their own value, embrace who they are with confidence, and know that they belong just as they are.
Thank you for all you do, Dr. Vassall. How can our readers stay connected with you?
Readers can stay connected with me by visiting my website at drandrewvassall.com, where I share updates, resources, and information about my work. You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to stay engaged, join the conversation, and follow along on this journey.
You can get the first book in THE COMPASSIONATE CRAYON SERIES on Amazon.
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