The Gruffalo

The Gruffalo

Book • 2016

by Julia Donaldson

The nation's favourite bedtime story!"A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood.
A fox saw the mouse and the mouse looked good."

Walk further into the deep dark wood, and discover what happens when a quick-witted mouse comes face to face with an owl, a snake ... and a hungry Gruffalo!

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's The Gruffalo is an undisputed modern classic and has become a best-selling phenomenon across the world with over 13.5 million copies sold. This award-winning rhyming story of a mouse and a monster has found its way into the hearts and bedtimes of an entire generation of children and will undoubtedly continue to enchant children for years and years to come. No home should be without The Gruffalo! This edition features the classic story with a stunning redesigned cover and beautiful finish, making it a must-have addition to the bookshelves of all Donaldson and Scheffler fans - big and small!

Also available with redesigned covers are The Gruffalo's Child, Room on the Broom, The Snail and the Whale, The Smartest Giant in Town, Monkey Puzzle, Charlie Cook's Favourite Book, and A Squash and a Squeeze.
Juvenile Nonfiction / Activity Books / General
Juvenile Fiction / Animals / General
Juvenile Fiction / Classics
Juvenile Fiction / Monsters
Juvenile Fiction / Stories in Verse
Juvenile Fiction / General
32 pages
3+

Suggested Age

Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.

The story's reliance on cleverness to overcome perceived threats and its rhyming structure make it suitable for preschoolers. Minimal scary elements are presented in a fantastical context.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

0/5

This story is a classic children's tale with no elements of romance, nudity, or sexual themes.

Violence & Gore

1/5

While there is a mention of the mouse being considered food and some characters attempting to eat the mouse, it is portrayed in a mild, cartoonish way without any graphic depiction of harm. The Gruffalo is ultimately outsmarted and not physically harmed.

Profanity

0/5

The dialogue in The Gruffalo is entirely clean and suitable for young children, with no instances of profanity.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

0/5

There are no portrayals of alcohol, drugs, or smoking in this story.

Frightening Scenes

2/5

The Gruffalo character can be a bit intimidating for very young children due to his appearance and the initial threat he poses. However, the tension is resolved through wit and bravery, and the overall tone is more whimsical than scary.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

It's a story about a little mouse who cleverly tricks bigger animals in the woods by pretending to be scary. He uses his smarts to get home safely!

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The story features mild peril as the mouse encounters animals who wish to eat him. The 'Gruffalo' himself is a fantastical monster, not a real threat. The rhyming narrative makes it engaging for young children.

What Kids Can Learn

Children can learn about different woodland creatures and develop an appreciation for storytelling. It promotes the idea that one doesn't need to be physically strong to be successful.

Key Topics Discussed

Forest animals
Problem-solving
Imagination

Why Parents Might Like It

A beloved classic with beautiful illustrations and a clever, reassuring narrative that has captivated generations of children and adults alike.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

4/5

Emphasizes intelligence and resourcefulness over brute strength. Demonstrates how to navigate potentially intimidating situations with wit.

Positive Role Models

4/5

The mouse is a clever and adaptable protagonist who uses his intellect to manage fear and outsmart larger creatures. His quick thinking serves as a positive example of problem-solving.

Diverse Representations

2/5

No diverse representations indicated in available information.

Educational Value

3/5

Enhances vocabulary through rhyming text and introduces concepts of strategy and wit. Encourages imaginative play and creative thinking.

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