What is fear, what truly needs to be feared, and what is merely an illusion? These timeless questions are at the heart of the first two Gruffalo books, which have captured imaginations around the globe. So when word got out that a third Gruffalo adventure was finally on its way, two decades after the last one, anticipation ran high.
The release date of 12 September 2026 was tightly guarded, and publishers were instructed to keep every detail under wraps until launch day. Only a select few were let in on the secret, including Luxembourgish translator Martine Schoellen, who can now finally share her experience of working on this extraordinary project.
Martine Schoellen describes the moment she learned a third Gruffalo book was in the works as both a thrill and a complete surprise, especially given previous statements from illustrator Axel Scheffler suggesting a sequel was unlikely.
Gruffalo Granny is her 13th translation of a Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler book, and it is not the first time the Luxembourgish edition is being released simultaneously with the original. Schoellen told RTL that this time the process was especially exciting and nerve-wracking.
The lengths to which the English publisher, Macmillan, went to to maintain secrecy were remarkable: international publishers who had signed the contract were summoned to a confidential presentation in Frankfurt just ahead of the book fair, where the story was read aloud, without illustrations and with phones strictly forbidden.
This level of confidentiality made translation even more challenging, as Schoellen could only discuss the manuscript with her two editors and her graphic designer. She explained that it was very unusual for her not even to be able to share her excitement with her own family, especially since she had just become a grandmother herself in January.
Still, the experience was also a joyful one, as she dedicated this translation to her grandson, who accompanied her in spirit throughout her work. In April, at the International Children’s Book Fair in Bologna, publishers and translators from around the world joined the authors to celebrate with a Gruffalo Granny Party, making it feel like one big international Gruffalo family reunion.
In this new tale, Gruffalo Granny comes to visit and, of course, she is hungry! The clever little Mouse also makes a return, just as quick-witted and resourceful as ever. Gruffalo Granny is a heartwarming story that celebrates the power of storytelling, and yes, Granny has a secret of her own…
As the publisher, éditions Guy Binsfeld, notes in its press release, it has been 26 years since The Gruffalo first introduced its world to readers, followed by The Gruffalo’s Child five years later. Now, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are inviting us to meet a new family member: Gruffalo Granny, or Grüffelo Grousi as Schoellen lovingly calls her in Luxembourgish.
Readers will once again encounter familiar faces: the Owl, the Snake, the Fox, and of course, the brave Mouse. The publisher promises another adventure to delight fans young and old, with the book set to hit shelves on 12 September.
Gruffalo Granny
Written by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Translated into Luxembourgish by Martine Schoellen
Published by éditions Guy Binsfeld
ISBN: 978-2-919822-44-7
32 pages, €18
