Get ready for a thrilling return to the deep dark wood! Julia Donaldson, the mastermind behind the beloved Gruffalo series, is introducing a brand-new character that’s bound to shake things up. But here’s where it gets exciting: meet the Gruffalo Granny, a fresh addition to the monster’s family, set to debut in the third installment of this iconic children’s series. Scheduled for publication on September 10, 2026, this book marks Donaldson’s first dive back into the Gruffalo universe in over two decades, following The Gruffalo’s Child in 2004 and the original bestseller in 1999.
And this is the part most people miss: the idea for this new story has been simmering in Donaldson’s mind for years, but it wasn’t until the National Literacy Trust’s Early Words Matter program reignited her inspiration that she finally brought it to life. Is it possible to recapture the magic after such a long hiatus? Donaldson herself admits, 'It's always a challenge to write a sequel,' but she’s confident this one will delight both children and adults alike.
The book will feature the return of fan-favorite characters like Fox, Snake, Owl, and Mouse, alongside the new Gruffalo Granny. An early excerpt teases: 'The Gruffalo said to his daughter one day, your Gruffalo Granny is coming to stay.' Illustrated once again by Donaldson’s longtime collaborator, Axel Scheffler, the story promises to be a visual and narrative treat. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Can a new character truly stand up to the legacy of the original Gruffalo?
Scheffler’s illustration of Gruffalo Granny was recently unveiled in a grand projection across central London and Glasgow, giving fans a sneak peek at what’s to come. With over 18 million copies sold and translations into 115 languages, the Gruffalo series has become a global phenomenon. But will this new addition live up to the hype? Only time will tell. What do you think—will Gruffalo Granny become an instant classic, or is this sequel one too many? Let us know in the comments!
