Children’s author Julia Donaldson recently spoke in an interview about her unexpected success with “The Gruffalo.” The story, which she initially doubted would be published, defied conventions with its dark themes and rhyming style back in 1999. Now, 26 years later, Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler have released “Gruffalo Granny,” the latest addition to the popular series.
The new book features the original Gruffalo and his child preparing for the arrival of Gruffalo Granny, known for her “enormous appetite.” Despite the success of the franchise, Donaldson expressed that she doesn’t plan to write any more Gruffalo books after this installment.
The promotion of “Gruffalo Granny” has been on a significant scale, with the book quickly becoming the best-selling book in the UK in 2026, across all genres and age groups. With over 227,000 copies sold in just three days, it has broken records as the fastest-selling picture book in the UK.
Donaldson shared her excitement about the enduring popularity of the characters she and Scheffler have created. While she believes her journey with the Gruffalo family is coming to an end, she looks forward to the release of her next book, “Winnifred Duck,” illustrated by Jim Fields, based on the true story of rubber ducks lost at sea and their global journey.