Do you have fond memories of reading Harold and the Purple Crayon as a child? And do your children love Harold’s creative adventures in Crockett Johnson’s original books as much as you did? It’s hard to believe that it was published in 1955! Well, if you and your children are fans of Harold and his crayon just like we are, then I’ve got good news for you — Harper has released a new Harold adventure, anonymously published, but just as full of charm and imagination: Harold’s Treasure Hunt!
*** Affiliate links used. A big thank you to Harper Kids for sharing this book with our family in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions of this book are my own.
Harold’s Treasure Hunt opens with Harold taking a nighttime walk on the beach, bringing his trusty purple crayon with him. In the peace and quiet of the beach at night, Harold begins to dream of pirates and their adventures at sea. So, of course, he uses his crayon to create said adventures! Once upon the pirate ship, he remembers that pirates often look for treasure, so he begins his own treasure hunt. Meeting grouchy pirates, walking the plank, swimming past octopuses, sharks, and mermaids, and venturing into a dark cave, Harold does indeed find a treasure chest… In the most unexpected place!
My girls love the undersea part of Harold’s adventure and have spent many a conversation discussing which sea animals and creatures they’d “meet” on a Harold-like adventure. They also find the twist in the ending absolutely delightful, and I love how this twist reminds them that some of the most exciting adventures can be found right in their own bedrooms, with the toys they have and their imaginations.
Of note, there is one misspelled word in here, so hopefully Harper will make that quick fix on reprints. Regardless, our family has loved going along with Harold on another delightfully sweet adventure!
If you liked Harold’s Treasure Hunt, be sure to check out our list of books to inspire wild creativity (you’ll find Harold and the Purple Crayon there!). Older readers might love Aaron Becker’s Journey trilogy.
What childhood favorites of yours do your children love to read today? A few of mine include Ira Sleeps Over, The Relatives Came, Each Peach Pear Plum, and Beverly Cleary’s Ramona series!
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We have a Harold’s Fairy Tales and I’ve always wondered if there were other extra books. That’s good news!
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You’re in luck — there are a lot! Have you ever read the original, Harold and the Purple Crayon? Crockett Johnson wrote a handful originally!
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Oh, yes. That one’s the best one, in my opinion. I read it when I was a kid and now I read it with my kids.
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