Common Sense Media Review
By Regan McMahon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Imagination reigns in timeless classic about drawing boy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 2+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
In HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON, Harold is a little boy who always has his purple crayon with him. He decides to go for a walk in the moonlight, but there's no moon, so he draws a crescent one and then draws a straight path to walk on so he won't get lost. The moon goes with him as he walks. He draws an apple tree, a dragon to guard it, and so on, creating settings, situations (a picnic full of pies), and transportation (a boat, a hot-air balloon) as the need or whim arises. And of course, when he decides to return home, there's only one way: To draw his way back.
Is It Any Good?
This timeless story has been a hit with young readers since it was first published in 1955. Harold and the Purple Crayon is simple enough to delight a toddler and clever enough for parents to enjoy as a whimsical celebration of endless, spontaneous creativity.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why Harold and the Purple Crayon has been loved by kids for generations. What makes it so appealing?
Harold has to persevere through a few sticky situations in the book. What would you draw if a dragon were chasing you?
How does Harold show courage on his adventures?
What would you draw with a magic crayon of your own, using your own curiosity?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Crocket Johnson
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Arts
- Character Strengths : Courage , Curiosity , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : HarperCollins Children's Books
- Publication date : January 1, 1955
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 3 - 8
- Number of pages : 64
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle, App
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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