Harold and the Purple Crayon

Description: The beloved classic is now available as a durable board book--ideal for little hands! Full color.

Brief description:

Crockett Johnson (1906-1975) was the writer and illustrator of over twenty books for children, including the beloved classic Harold and the Purple Crayon, six subsequent adventures starring Harold, and The Carrot Seed, written by his wife, Ruth Krauss. He was also the creator of the groundbreaking Barnaby, one of the most influential and ingenious comic strips of the twentieth century.

Review Quotes:

"[Harold and the Purple Crayon] is one of my favorite children's books. I've read it to my kids so many times." - actress, singer, and songwriter Zooey Deschanel

What they're saying now... "One of the world's most beloved children's books." - Horn Book Magazine

"The art book I most recommend is Harold and the Purple Crayon." - Deborah Solomon, New York Times Book Review

What they said then... "An original book that should fascinate the finger-paint buffs." - New Yorker

"An ingenious and original picture story in which a small boy out for a walk--happily with crayon in hand--draws himself some wonderful adventures. A little book that will be loved." - Horn Book Magazine

"One of the world's most beloved children's books." - Horn Book

"[Harold and the Purple Crayon] is one of my favorite children's books. I've read it to my kids so many times." - actress, singer, and songwriter Zooey Deschanel

The story follows straightforward toddler reasoning, and ends up playfully illustrating cause and effect. The best part of the book is that its world is built entirely by a single child, sending a message that's charming for readers of any age: Adventure can be available to anybody who thinks to seek it. - The Atlantic 65 Essential Children's Books, 2025