Harold and the Purple Crayon

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

One evening Harold decided to go for a walk in the moonlight. But there wasn't any moon, and Harold needed a moon for a walk in the moonlight. Fortunately, he had brought his purple crayon. So he drew a moon. He also needed something to walk on. So he drew a path...

And thus begins one of the most imaginative and enchanting adventures in all of children's books. The creative concept behind this beloved story has intrigued children and kept them absorbed for generations, as page by page unfolds the dramatic and clever adventures of Harold and his purple crayon.

“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