Gruffalo Granny: The Long-Awaited Third Book Arrives in 2026
Exciting news has emerged for fans of the beloved Gruffalo series, as best-selling children's author Julia Donaldson has revealed detailed information about the eagerly anticipated third instalment. Titled Gruffalo Granny, the new book is scheduled for publication on 10 September 2026, marking a significant return to the deep dark wood after more than two decades.
A New Family Member Joins the Gruffalo Universe
The announcement confirms that the Gruffalo family will expand with the introduction of a new character, the Gruffalo Granny. An excerpt from the book has been released, reading: "The Gruffalo said to his daughter one day, your Gruffalo Granny is coming to stay." This charming snippet hints at a heartwarming family narrative that will delight both young readers and adults alike.
Fans were treated to a first glimpse of the Gruffalo Granny character when illustrator Axel Scheffler's artwork was projected in central London and Glasgow on Friday evening. This visual teaser has generated considerable buzz among the series' devoted following.
Collaboration and Creative Challenges
Julia Donaldson has spoken candidly about the creative process behind this new book, acknowledging the challenges of writing a sequel. She revealed that the basic idea for the story had been with her for a long time, but it was only recently that she found the inspiration to develop it fully.
"It was only when the National Literacy Trust, whose work I'm very impressed by, 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," Donaldson explained. "To my surprise, I managed to do just that! I was of course delighted when Axel came on board and am even more so now that I've seen the brilliant illustrations he's done for the new book."
Returning Favourites and Illustrative Excellence
The new book will once again feature the artistic talents of Axel Scheffler, Donaldson's frequent collaborator whose illustrations have become synonymous with the Gruffalo's world. Readers can look forward to seeing familiar characters from the previous books making their return, including:
- Fox
- SnakeOwl
- Mouse
This continuity ensures that the magical world of the Gruffalo remains consistent while introducing fresh elements to captivate a new generation of readers.
The Gruffalo's Remarkable Legacy
The Gruffalo series has achieved phenomenal success since the original book's publication in 1999. The combined sales of The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child have surpassed 18 million copies worldwide, with translations available in 115 languages and dialects. This remarkable reach demonstrates the universal appeal of Donaldson's storytelling and Scheffler's distinctive artwork.
Donaldson expressed her hopes for the new addition to the series: "I really hope that children - and adults too - will enjoy the new story, as I know what a wonderful experience shared reading can be." Her commitment to creating meaningful reading experiences continues to resonate with families and educators across the globe.
The announcement of Gruffalo Granny represents a significant moment in children's literature, bringing one of Britain's most cherished literary creations back to bookshelves after a lengthy hiatus. With its September 2026 publication date now confirmed, anticipation is building for what promises to be another classic addition to the Gruffalo canon.
