Book Being Reviewed:
Johnson, C. (1955). Harold and the purple crayon. New York, NY: HarperCollins.

Reviewer:
Kate Sutton

Genre:
Fiction-Children (6-11 years old)

Subject Headings:
Alternative therapies,Career

Review:
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson is an imaginative children's book about a little boy who ends up creating a before bedtime adventure by drawing his experience with a big, purple crayon. The entire story blooms out of Harold's imagination, for the only real elements are Harold and his purple crayon. Harold's journey begins when he decides to take a walk in the moonlight so he draws the moon. From there, he must make decisions about whats to come walking through a field to an apple tree guarded by a dragon, rescuing himself from the sea by drawing a boat to sail above the waves, riding a hot air balloon, creating a city, and finally, finding his way back home. The story shows both Harold and the reader the possibilities of this exciting adventure, as he draws the landscape of his imagination.This story is abundant with meaning.

As a counselor, one could approach this book in a few different ways. First, Harold's adventure is gently reminiscent of the Heroes Journey and could be used to explore how a client may relate to the beginning, middle and end of Harold's setting out, his trials, and his homecoming. Second, the purple crayon is a symbol of self-efficacy and ability to make creative choices to reach goals. As an exercise, counselors may encourage clients to identify how they would like to create their lives and use motivational interviewing to help them meet their goals. Finally, this book would be an excellent candidate for use in conjunction with art therapy. Clients could choose their preferred color of crayon and draw where they would like to go in life, whats stopping them and how to find a way to get there. Just like Harold, clients are engaged in the problem solving process and can use their own imaginations to seek change that is meaningful and fulfilling.