The Gruffalo family is expanding! Publisher Macmillan has announced that the third book of Julia Donaldson's beloved children's stories, "Gruffalo Granny," will be published on September 10.
This book comes more than 20 years after the previous sequel, The Gruffalo's Child (2004), the sequel to the original The Gruffalo (1999). The new stories will bring back familiar characters such as Fox, Snake, Owl and Mouse, while a new character, Gruffalo Granny, will visit the Gruffalo and his daughter. An excerpt from the book reads: “The Gruffalo said to his daughter one day: The Gruffalo Grannys are coming for a visit.”
Donaldson explained that he had the basic idea for this story for a long time, but had difficulty developing it. Inspiration came from the National Literacy Trust's Early Words Matter programme, prompting him to take the idea out of the drawer and turn it into a story that would be enjoyable for young and old readers.
“I was delighted to have my frequent collaborator Axel Scheffler on board, and his illustrations for the new book are simply stunning,” said Donaldson. “I hope children – and adults – will enjoy the new story, because reading together is a special experience.”
Scheffler added: “Never say never – that’s what I learned. When Julia sent me this new text, I couldn’t say no. I’ve been drawing the Gruffalo and his daughter for over 20 years, so I’m not completely out of shape. I’m also delighted that the Gruffalo will also be involved in charity work to support young readers, in aid of the National Literacy Trust.”
The original The Gruffalo book and its sequel have sold over 18 million copies and have been translated into 115 languages and dialects. For the first time, the Gruffalo Granny drawing will be screened in central London and Glasgow this Friday.
Alison Ruane, director of Macmillan Children's Books, said: "The impact that Julia Donaldson, Axel Scheffler and the Gruffalo have had on families around the world is extraordinary. The global enthusiasm for the new book clearly demonstrates this. We are proud to publish this story and can't wait for children and families to experience it together, especially in the National Year of Reading. Ready for September - The Grannies are coming to visit!"
Donaldson and Scheffler's collaborations also include books such as The Snail and the Whale, Room on the Broom, Stick Man, Tiddler, The Scarecrows' Wedding and The Highway Rat, most of which have also been adapted into television animations and the stage. /GazetaExpress/
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