Black pencil and red pencil

　　What is the meaning of life? What constitutes a meaningful life? This existential question has occupied thinkers and philosophers, both ancient and modern, for half a lifetime, or even an entire lifetime, in their quest for truth. Perhaps discussing the meaning of life with young children might seem premature, but helping them appreciate the value of life and accept themselves is never too early. And the medium that resonates most with children, allowing them to empathize most deeply, is storytelling.

　　In the book, both the red pencil and the black pencil have their own goals and life missions, but they go about them in completely different ways. The red pencil spends all its time dreaming of writing an epic story but keeps putting it off. In the end, it is carried away by a large rat before writing a single word. The black pencil, on the other hand, writes every day. Although it doesn't write a grand story that will last for ages, it records its daily life, leaving a memorial for its short existence.

　　The entire book features a doodling, casual style with a childlike touch that greatly resonates with children. The rich colors also create a strong contrast between the red pencil, the black pencil, and the chubby rat. When the long, thick, and seemingly beautiful red pencil is gnawed into pieces by the rat, it's startling and prompts a moment of self-reflection: have I also wasted my time? Yet, does effort always guarantee reward? There might not be a definitive answer to this question, but one thing is certain: without effort, there will definitely be no reward. I believe intelligent young readers, after reading this book, will clearly know their desired choices.