Third Gruffalo Book’s Title and Release Date Revealed

Macmillan has announced the upcoming release of the third Gruffalo book, titled “Gruffalo Granny”, which is set to launch on September 10, 2026. This new installment marks the first return to the beloved character in over two decades, following the publication of “The Gruffalo’s Child” in 2004, a sequel to the original “The Gruffalo” released in 1999.

Inspiration Behind the New Gruffalo Book

Author Julia Donaldson was motivated to write this new story in response to a campaign focused on promoting children’s reading. In April 2025, she revealed her plans to revisit the deep dark wood, mentioning her excitement about creating a story that connects with younger readers.

New Characters and Themes

“Gruffalo Granny” introduces a new character, with Donaldson sharing a snippet where the Gruffalo welcomes his daughter, saying: “Your Gruffalo Granny is coming to stay.” The story will feature illustrations from Axel Scheffler, Donaldson’s longtime collaborator. Iconic characters from previous books, including Fox, Snake, Owl, and Mouse, will reappear, enhancing the continuity of this beloved series.

Challenges in Writing the Sequel

Donaldson acknowledged the challenges of writing sequels, emphasizing that more than five years passed between the previous books. She expressed her satisfaction in developing the basic idea into a full narrative, inspired by the National Literacy Trust’s initiatives.

Community and Charitable Efforts

• The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child have collectively sold over 18 million copies.
• These books have been translated into 115 languages and dialects.
• The characters will also support charitable activities to reach more young readers.

Donaldson and Scheffler’s partnership has produced numerous popular titles, including “The Snail and The Whale” and “Room on the Broom.” Their works are celebrated globally, often adapted into live performances and animated specials.

Public Engagement and Anticipation

Fans can look forward to a preview of the new Gruffalo character at public displays in central London and Glasgow. Alison Ruane, managing director at Macmillan Children’s Books, highlighted the worldwide impact of Donaldson and Scheffler’s work. She noted the excitement around the new book, especially in the National Year of Reading.

As September approaches, readers of all ages are invited to prepare for Grandma’s visit into the enchanting world of the Gruffalo.