Crockett Johnson was the pen name of David Johnson Leisk, an American cartoonist and children’s book illustrator, born on October 20, 1906, and passed away on July 11, 1975. He is renowned for his comic strip Barnaby (1942–1952) and the Harold series of books, starting with Harold and the Purple Crayon in 1955. This particular book has become a classic in children’s literature, known for its imaginative and minimalist style, showcasing Harold’s adventures drawn with his purple crayon. A new movie version of Harold and the Purple Crayon is scheduled for release in 2024.

Johnson’s work in Barnaby was notable for its unique blend of whimsical fantasy and gentle satire, and it earned a significant place in the history of American comics. The strip featured characters like five-year-old Barnaby and his fairy godfather Mr. O’Malley, a bombastic and bumbling character.

Apart from Harold and the Purple Crayon, Johnson wrote and illustrated several other books for children. Some of these include Harold’s Fairy Tale (1956), Harold’s Trip to the Sky (1957), The Blue Ribbon Puppies (1958), and Ellen’s Lion: Twelve Stories (1959), among others. He also illustrated books for other authors, such as The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss (Johnson’s wife).

Johnson’s artistic style was known for its simplicity and effectiveness, often using minimal lines to create memorable characters and settings. His work has been appreciated for capturing the world of young children with a unique charm and clarity.

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