Macmillan has announced a new instalment in the beloved Gruffalo series, titled Gruffalo Granny, set for release on 10 September. The book marks the return of author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler, more than 20 years after the publication of The Gruffalo's Child in 2004.
The story introduces a new character, Gruffalo Granny, with an excerpt reading: “The Gruffalo said to his daughter one day, your Gruffalo Granny is coming to stay.” Familiar characters including Fox, Snake, Owl and Mouse will also reappear. Donaldson said she had the basic idea long ago but struggled to develop it until the National Literacy Trust's Early Words Matter programme inspired her to revisit the story.
Scheffler, who initially denied the possibility of another Gruffalo book, said he could not decline after receiving Donaldson's “clever and inspired” text. He added that the Gruffalos will support charitable activities to reach young readers with the National Literacy Trust. The original The Gruffalo (1999) and its sequel have sold over 18 million copies combined and been translated into 115 languages.
Fans can see a first look at Gruffalo Granny when a never-before-seen illustration is projected in central London and Glasgow on Friday evening. Macmillan Children's Books managing director Alison Ruane expressed pride in publishing the duo, especially during the National Year of Reading.
