Gruffalo Granny Makes Her Debut in Julia Donaldson's Newest Adventure
The deep dark wood welcomes a new resident as Julia Donaldson, the celebrated British author, introduces Gruffalo Granny in her long-awaited third book. This latest instalment, set for release in September, marks a return to the beloved monster's world more than two decades after the publication of The Gruffalo's Child in 2004, which itself followed the best-selling original The Gruffalo from 1999.
A Familiar Cast Returns with a Fresh Face
The story will see Gruffalo Granny visiting the deep dark wood, with an excerpt hinting at the narrative: 'The Gruffalo said to his daughter one day, your Gruffalo Granny is coming to stay.' Fans can rejoice as familiar characters from previous books, including Fox, Snake, Owl, and Mouse, will also make their return. The illustrations, as always, are provided by Donaldson's long-time German collaborator, Axel Scheffler, ensuring the visual charm that has captivated millions.
Julia Donaldson, now 77, expressed her excitement and the challenges of crafting a sequel. 'It's always a challenge to write a sequel,' she remarked. 'Five years elapsed between publication of The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child, and now it will be more than 20 between The Gruffalo's Child and the third book. I really hope that children – and adults too – will enjoy the new story, as I know what a wonderful experience shared reading can be.' She added her delight at Scheffler's involvement, praising his brilliant illustrations for the new book.
Inspired by a Literacy Campaign
The decision to revisit the Gruffalo universe was first announced in April last year, driven by a National Literacy Trust campaign aimed at reversing a decline in children's reading. Donaldson's previous works, The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child, have together sold over 18 million copies and been translated into 115 languages and dialects, underscoring their global appeal.
Axel Scheffler, 68, shared his initial reluctance and eventual enthusiasm for the project. 'Never say never – a lesson learnt for me who, whenever asked, denied the possibility of another visit to the deep dark wood,' he said. 'Till one day, out of the blue, there came a wonderfully clever and inspired new text by Julia. How does she do this? Could I decline? Of course not!'
Celebrating the National Year of Reading
To build anticipation, fans were treated to a glimpse of Gruffalo Granny with projections planned in central London and Glasgow. Alison Ruane, managing director at Macmillan Children's Books, highlighted the significance of this release. 'We are so proud to publish Julia and Axel here at Macmillan's Children's Books, and we can't wait for children and families to experience this new story together – especially in the National Year of Reading,' she stated.
Donaldson and Scheffler's collaboration extends beyond the Gruffalo series, including popular titles like The Snail And The Whale, Room On The Broom, and Stick Man. Many of their stories have been adapted into televised animations, becoming festive staples, and stage productions, further cementing their place in children's literature.
