Book Review: Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

"Reading to your child helps them become ready to start and stay in school. The fun doesn't have to stop when the reading is done! There are many skills that come can be initiated from reading a book. To build upon these skills, use activities to reinforce the learning." 

About the Author: Celebrating the 50th anniversary of this book, Crockett Johnson gave children a simple way to explore using just their imaginations and a crayon. In the beginning of his career, Johnson wrote for the new newspaper and drew comics but eventually moved to children's stories. He has written over 20 books and helped illustrate many others. As a couple, he and his wife enjoyed writing stories and plays for children. They wrote simple stories with great creativity, perfect for any age! 

Book Review: "One night, after thinking it over for some time, Harold decided to go for a walk in the moonlight." So begins this gentle story that shows just how far your imagination can take you. Armed only with an oversized purple crayon, young Harold draws himself a landscape full of beauty and excitement. But this is no hare-brained, impulsive flight of fantasy. Cherubic, round-headed Harold conducts his adventure with the utmost prudence, letting his imagination run free, but keeping his wits about him all the while. He takes the necessary purple-crayon precautions: drawing landmarks to ensure he won't get lost; sketching a boat when he finds himself in deep water; and creating a purple pie picnic when he feels the first pangs of hunger. 

Activity: Create a fun activity for the whole family by doing pass around story boards. Have one person start by drawing a simple picture, then passing it to another person who continues the picture, then pass it again. When everyone has had a turn, come together and tell the whole story. This a great way to use the imagination of all ages and to have fun as a group!