Renowned children's author Julia Donaldson has disclosed that the concept for her latest addition to the wildly popular Gruffalo series was initially envisioned almost twenty years ago. During an appearance on BBC Radio 4, Donaldson discussed the launch of Gruffalo Granny, a new title that follows the iconic The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child.
Decades-Long Development
Donaldson explained that while the book is only now being published, the idea has been percolating for the better part of two decades. "I've had this idea for the best part of two decades, but I've just been so busy writing other things," she stated. The author, who resided in Scotland from 1989 to 2014, admitted she struggled to develop the concept initially, leaving it dormant for years.
Inspiration from Literacy Initiatives
The breakthrough came when the National Literacy Trust incorporated the first two Gruffalo books into their Early Words Matter programme. Donaldson, deeply impressed by the Trust's work, found the motivation to revisit her idea. "It was only when the National Literacy Trust used the first two books as part of their Early Words Matter programme that I was spurred on to get my idea out of the cupboard," she said. "To my surprise, I managed to turn it into a really satisfying story."
New Character and Release Details
Gruffalo Granny, set for release on September 10 in hardback and audiobook formats, introduces a brand-new character named Granny. This addition promises to join the Gruffalo family for an exciting new adventure. The original The Gruffalo debuted in 1999, with The Gruffalo's Child following in 2004.
Phenomenal Sales and Global Reach
The Gruffalo series, illustrated by German artist Axel Scheffler, has achieved remarkable commercial success. Combined sales have reached 18.2 million copies, with the books translated into 115 languages and dialects. Scheffler humorously noted the lengthy gap between books, saying, "As I have had to draw the odd Gruffalo and his daughter over the last 20 years, I'm not completely out of practice."
Donaldson's Career Journey
Born in London, Donaldson studied drama and French in the late 1960s. In the 1970s, she contributed to BBC children's television, writing songs for programmes like Play Away and conducting children's drama sessions in Brighton. Her literary career truly began after relocating to Bearsden, near Glasgow, in 1989, following her husband Malcolm's paediatric appointment in Scotland.
Collaboration and Accolades
Her first book appeared in 1993, marking the start of her prolific writing career and her enduring collaboration with Axel Scheffler. Together, they produced classics such as The Gruffalo, Room On The Broom, and numerous other titles. Donaldson's contributions to literature were recognised with an MBE in 2011, and she served as Children's Laureate from 2011 to 2013, using the role to advocate against library cuts across the country.
