Harold and the Purple Crayon

Harold and the Purple Crayon

Author: Crockett Johnson

Genre: Fiction

Ages: 3 and up

Themes: Imagination, Drawing

Summary: Harold decides to go for a moonlight walk with his purple crayon. This is the story of Harold and how far his imagination will take him. 

Pre-Reading Activity: Show students the cover of the book and tell them that Harold draws things he wants to see in his world. Ask students what they would draw to make their school better? Their homes better? Their city better? Record these responses. 

Post-Reading Activity: Give students pre-drawn pictures that illustrate a problem Harold may come upon, i.e a kite stuck in a tree, Harold is walking and it starts to rain. Let them use a purple crayon to draw another picture that would help Harold out of the situation. 

Reflection: All the "Harold" books are really good books to use with young children. It is a great way to expand students' imaginations and let them freely express themselves. 

About the Author

Crockett Johnson

Crockett Johnson was the writer and/or illustrator of over 20 books for children. He was also the creator of "Barnaby", one of the most popular comic strips of the 20th century. Mr. Johnson received his art training at New York University and Cooper Union.

(www.barnesandnoble.com)