After more than two decades, the Gruffalo is coming back in a brand-new adventure. The much-loved character will return in a third book by author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler, which is set to be published in September 2026.
The new story follows the success of the original The Gruffalo, released in 1999, and its sequel The Gruffalo’s Child in 2004. Together, the two books have sold more than 18 million copies and become modern classics in children’s literature.
Donaldson had the idea for a third story years ago but didn’t move forward with it until recently. She was inspired to write the new book after seeing how the first two titles were used by the National Literacy Trust (NLT) in its Early Words Matter program. The initiative aims to boost reading among children, especially at a time when fewer young people are reading for fun. In 2024, only 35% of children aged 8 to 18 said they enjoyed reading in their free time—the lowest rate since 2005.
The Gruffalo’s return is expected to connect generations. Many adults who enjoyed the first book as children will now be able to share the new story with their own kids.
The original tale followed a clever mouse who outwits predators in the deep dark wood by inventing a scary creature—the Gruffalo—only to meet the real monster later. The sequel featured the Gruffalo’s child searching for the “big bad mouse” her father once met.
Publisher Macmillan Children’s Books described the upcoming book as a fresh story with the same charm that made the first two so successful. The new adventure continues the collaboration between Donaldson and Scheffler, a duo known for their warm storytelling and imaginative illustrations.
Since the Gruffalo first appeared, the franchise has expanded to include animated films, merchandise, and educational tools. The return of the character is likely to spark excitement among fans both young and old, who have wondered what the Gruffalo has been doing all this time.
The new book will aim to bring more families together through shared reading, while also encouraging a new generation to fall in love with books.