USING COLOUR IN CHILDREN'S BOOKS - PURPLE. By Sharon Tregenza

 

PURPLE

Purple is a particularly interesting colour in children's literature because it evokes both imagination and emotion. It crosses the calm stability of blue with the energetic warmth of red. For children this can mix feelings of magic with creativity and curiousity.

Its often feels special because it's not so common in the natural world. That makes children associate it with make-believe and fantasy.

Authors and illustrators use purple to invite children into a world that is different while still feeling safe.

Three books that use the colour purple to great effect:

In "Harold and the Purple Crayon" by Crocket Johnson it's used to depict imagination. Harold's purple crayon creates a special world around him. It symbolises safety in exploration.

"Purple Green and Yellow" by Robert Munsch. The colour purple in this book stands out as bold and different. It's used for themes of independent expression which is valuable for children just learning about identity.

"The Gruffalo"  by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. The purple prickles on the Gruffalo emphasises his magical nature. It's used here to signal mystery without fear helping children process tension in a non-threatening way.

In children's books purple tells young readers that this book is magical but also safe. It's an important visual aid that deepens a psychological connection to the story for children.

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