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Harold and the Purple Crayon

by Crockett Johnson Publisher: HARPERCOLLINS

A moonlit walk drawn into being

Regular price $18.74 USD
Regular price $31.24 USD Sale price $18.74 USD
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Hardcover New English

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Awards & Recognition

  • Editorial selection

    The Atlantic 65 Essential Children’s Books Selection (2025)

    Selected for The Atlantic’s 65 Essential Children’s Books list (2025).

AlbakiReads Editorial

A moonlit walk drawn into being

On an evening walk, Harold uses an oversized purple crayon to create the world around him, drawing a landscape that takes him through woods and across seas, past dragons, and ultimately back to bed. The simple setup makes imagination the engine of the adventure: each new place begins with Harold’s own drawing. This picture book pairs an expansive journey with a reassuring return home, keeping its focus on the possibilities of making a world with a few lines and a crayon.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • A good match for children ages 4–8 who enjoy imaginative picture-book adventures.
  • For families and caregivers seeking a story centered on drawing and make-believe.
  • May interest young readers who like journeys featuring unusual landscapes and dragons.

Themes

Imagination and creativityDrawing and world-buildingAdventure and homecoming

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

From beloved children's book creator Crockett Johnson comes the timeless classic Harold and the Purple Crayon! This imagination-sparking picture book belongs on every child's bookshelf.

One evening Harold decides to go for a walk in the moonlight. Armed only with an oversize purple crayon, young Harold draws himself a landscape full of wonder and excitement.

Harold and his trusty crayon travel through woods and across seas and past dragons before returning to bed, safe and sound. Full of funny twists and surprises, this charming story shows just how far your imagination can take you.

"A satisfying artistic triumph." --Chris Van Allsburg, author-illustrator of The Polar Express

Share this classic as a birthday, baby shower, or graduation gift!

An Atlantic 65 Essential Children's Books Selection, 2025

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In-stock items normally dispatch within 1–2 business days. The ZIP-code estimator on this page is informational only; the final shipping method, price, and availability are confirmed at checkout for your full order.

For the initial delivery estimate we use these transit windows after dispatch: Standard 5–8 business days, Expedited 2–4 business days, and Priority 1–2 business days. Holiday delays are not included.

Eligible items can be returned within 30 days in accordance with our return policy.

Customer reviews

M
AlbakiReads
Malaika Taylor

I highly recommend to for anyone looking for inner clarity

T
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Thomas DiMassa

Great service and fast service

Great shopping experience! The book arrived quickly, was well packaged, and matched the description perfectly. I would definitely shop with you again

O
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Olivia

Smooth.