Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson is a book that I have loved sharing with Gage. It is all about imagination and that’s something I want to encourage in Gage. The fact that purple is his favorite crayon color and that there was a scary dragon in it made this an easy sell. It is a little long, but Gage makes it all the way through. I’d say It’s perfect for kids 2 1/2-5 and there are just so many activities to try with this one. I decided to let Gage make his own. book. Harold was armed only with a crayon, but Gage got stickers and a little help from mom.
For prep I folded 4 sheets of paper in half and then a sheet of white cardstock for the cover, collected purple crayons and stickers that could help with storytelling. We very loosely used some of the scenes from the book. Gage had fun even if I had to prod with the storytelling. I will do this activity again and each time prompt more from Gage so I have to provide less. I made the cover myself after he was done 🙂
the set up
what should I put on the road?
sometimes one crayon is not enough
and sometimes I needed help.
I’m feeling proud.
the final product
I had so much fun with Gage I’m thinking of making one myself. I think this book is a must have for any kid. Harold’s that is, Gage’s isn’t for sale!
There’s a little bit of purple in here :
(courtesy of Bookbath))
Stacy's Books 
It was so much fun watching Gage ( & Mommy) create this book. Gage loved choosing the story and the stickers. He is very proud of it and likes to tell the story. He’s so smart:)
What a fun fun fun idea!! We don’t own this book but I love the activity that you’ve done with it.
This is a great book and what a fun activity for mom and son:) You Rock Mommy!
What a great activity for you to do together! I can see how proud Gage is!
He has the best smile ever!!!
So fun! Such a great mom, Stacy 🙂
He is so completely adorable! too bad he wasn’t for sale cuz I would scoop him up! I love your activity with him!
We loved the Harold books when Amber was little, too. Making his own book was a great idea! And he’s cute, as always.
I like his drawings. He is doing good. BTW, I love purple too. Royal colour and all that!
Gage has the loveliest of smiles…:D
I loved those “Harold” books, they are so cute!
Great idea for Gage’s book!
He is so sweet and talented.
I still haven’t even read this book, alas. It’s definitely on our list for some point, though.
How adorable!! Gage is getting so big!
I always loved the Harold books. This is such a fun activity and a great idea! (Way to go Mommy!) Save that book because you will treasure it forever and Gage will enjoy it too when he gets older. My boys like looking at their old things but not as much as I do. 🙂
Oh I love this idea just fantastic! I have seen this book around online and wondered if it was any good. Might have to see if my local library has a copy.
how fun, way to go super mom!
What a great activity! Now Gage can read his own bedtime story.
Fun book and I love how it inspired yours and Gage’s creativity. His proud smile is just the cutest ever!!