Learn how to draw Crankenstein, the main character in a children’s book by Samantha Berger. He’s a little boy that turns into a cranky Frankenstein monster,

A Drawing of Crankenstein

Years ago, some kindergarten teachers taught me one of the best tricks for starting an art lesson with 5- and 6-year-olds: read them a book first.

I saw firsthand how quickly a story could calm the room and get everyone looking and listening in the same direction. It worked like a charm, every single time.

Eventually, I learned that almost any book could help, but the really fun part was finding one that connected to the art project. Maybe it had a character the students could draw, a color idea they could borrow, or a setting that helped get their imaginations going.

That little bit of connection gave students something to think about before they ever picked up a pencil. It made the art lesson feel less like a separate activity and more like the next part of the story.

Over time, I started collecting books and projects that worked well together. Those pairings often turned into some of my favorite lessons, especially for younger students who love having a story to get them started.

When I came across “Crankenstein” by Samantha Berger*, the process was actually reversed and the book inspired the project. The fun message about a boy who wakes up super cranky, is a fun twist on a Frankenstein theme, and a great project around Halloween time. *Affiliate link. If you click and take action, I will be compensated a small amount, at no cost to the buyer.

Another Fun Variation

This one came from a homeschooling mom, I believe. Have older students draw their entire body, split in half to show their “Crankenstein” side. They would probably enjoy making all of their skin look the same shade of green. My tutorial just covers a face, but the illustrations in the book are so good that it might be all students need figure out what a full body would look like.

Student Artwork Inspiration

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Use the Button below to grab a PDF Tutorial

A step by step tutorial for how to draw Crankenstein, also available as a printable.

Open Draw Crankenstein Tutorial

Want more of a challenge? Try adding shadows for a 3D look.

Crankenstein Coloring Page

Open Crankenstein Coloring Page

Materials

Crayola Twistables Crayons for Kids

(24ct) Essential School Supplies for Girls & Boys, Toddler Coloring, Less Mess, Back to School Gifts for Kids. *Note: I may earn a commission if you buy through the link.