Children’s book author Julia Donaldson recently shared in an interview that when she initially wrote the popular book “The Gruffalo” over twenty years ago, she did not expect it to be successful. Donaldson acknowledged that the story, featuring a clever mouse outwitting predators with tales of a fearsome monster in the deep woods, was unconventional for children’s literature at the time. Despite doubts about its rhyming style being out of fashion in 1999, “The Gruffalo” defied expectations and became a surprise hit.
Now, more than two decades later, Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler have released “Gruffalo Granny,” the third and likely final installment in the beloved series following the success of “The Gruffalo” and “The Gruffalo’s Child.” Donaldson expressed that she does not plan to create another Gruffalo book in the future.
The latest book, “Gruffalo Granny,” tells the story of the original Gruffalo and his child preparing a feast for the arrival of Gruffalo Granny, known for her enormous appetite. The mouse from the first book once again faces the possibility of becoming a meal. Donaldson revealed that the creative process for “Gruffalo Granny” mirrored that of “The Gruffalo,” focusing on crafting a compelling story without being overly concerned about the audience.
The release and promotion of “Gruffalo Granny” have been met with tremendous success. Within days of its launch, the book became the top-selling book in the U.K. for 2026 across all genres and age groups, surpassing adult books in sales. With over 227,000 copies sold in the first three days, it also set a record as the fastest-selling picture book in the U.K.
Julia Donaldson emphasized the enduring appeal of her collaborations with Axel Scheffler and expressed pride in the intergenerational readership the Gruffalo series has garnered. While she believes her time with the Gruffalo family has come to a close, Donaldson’s career as a children’s author continues with her upcoming book “Winnifred Duck,” based on the true story of rubber ducks lost at sea and their global journey.
The remarkable success of “Gruffalo Granny” reflects the lasting charm of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s storytelling partnership, captivating readers of all ages with their whimsical tales.