Gruffalo Granny
A new rhyming picture book from the creators of The Gruffalo, with a visit from a very special relative.
Gruffalo Granny is a rhyming picture book title by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler. In the children’s bestseller list we checked on 7 November 2026, it was number 2. This guide explains what the book is about, who it suits, how to talk about it and what to read next.
What is Gruffalo Granny about?
The Gruffalo and his daughter are getting ready for a visit from Gruffalo Granny, and they have a menu in mind. Once again, the little brown mouse has to use his wits to stay off it.
The book is a new addition to the family of picture books that began with The Gruffalo and continued with The Gruffalo’s Child. Julia Donaldson wrote the rhymes and Axel Scheffler drew the pictures, so the look and sound will be familiar to children who know the earlier stories.
Gruffalo Granny: book details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Author | Julia Donaldson |
| Illustrator | Axel Scheffler |
| Series | The Gruffalo family |
| Format | Hardback picture book |
| Publisher | Macmillan Children’s Books |
| Published | 10 September 2026 |
| Length | 40 pages |
| Genre | Rhyming picture book |
| Age guide | 3 to 7 |
| ISBN (edition listed) | 9781035065516 |
Ages marked as “suggested” are our own guidance, not the publisher’s. Editions and dates can differ between shops, so check the listing for the copy you want.
Why children enjoy Gruffalo Granny
- Strong rhythm and rhyme make it a joy to read aloud, and easy for children to join in.
- Familiar characters make it comforting, while the new relative adds a fresh twist.
- The pictures reward a second look, with small details in the woodland scenes.
Reading and talking tips
Use these prompts to make reading time a conversation:
- Pause before the end of each rhyme and let your child supply the word.
- Ask: “What trick do you think the mouse will use this time?”
- Read The Gruffalo first if your child has not met the characters yet.
About Julia Donaldson
Julia Donaldson is a British writer who served as Children’s Laureate from 2011 to 2013. The Gruffalo, illustrated by Axel Scheffler, was first published in 1999 and is one of the best-loved picture books of its generation.
Read more on our Julia Donaldson author page.
If your child likes this, try…
- Rabbit and Bear: The Bog of Frogs by Julian Gough, number 14 in the list.
- Milly McCarthy and the Doggy Daycare Drama by Leona Forde, number 9 in the list.
- Ghost and Toast: Slice to Meet You! by Phil Corbett, number 10 in the list.
Browse the whole list in our Top 20 children’s books, or use our books by age guides to find your next read.
Frequently asked questions about Gruffalo Granny
What age is Gruffalo Granny for?
The publisher suggests ages 3 to 7. Younger children enjoy it as a read-aloud, and early readers can try the rhymes themselves.
Do I need to know The Gruffalo to enjoy Gruffalo Granny?
It helps. The new book builds on the characters from The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child, so reading those first makes the jokes land better.
How long is Gruffalo Granny?
It is a 40-page hardback picture book, so you can read it in one short sitting, which makes it a good bedtime choice.
Where to find it: your local library, an independent bookshop or an online retailer. Library membership is free in Ireland; see our guide to using your library.