The Gruffalo

The Gruffalo

From The Gruffalo

Character guide

Who is The Gruffalo in The Gruffalo?

The Gruffalo is a creature of mythical proportions, with a fearsome appearance that strikes terror into the hearts of all who hear of him. With his gnarled horns, sharp claws, and a spine-chilling growl, he embodies the essence of a creature straight out of a nightmare. His large, orange eyes gleam with a menacing glint, while his terrible teeth and tusks add to his imposing presence. Covered in purple prickles from head to toe, the Gruffalo cuts an intimidating figure as he prowls through the deep, dark wood. Despite his ferocious exterior, beneath the surface lies a creature who is more puzzled than fearsome, as he finds himself outwitted by the cunning mouse. Yet, despite his vulnerability, the Gruffalo remains an iconic symbol of the power of imagination and the unexpected twists that lie within the pages of a captivating story.

The Gruffalo has become one of the most iconic monsters in children’s literature. Since its debut in 1999, this award-winning tale of a cunning little mouse and his adventure through the deep dark wood has captivated both children and adults worldwide.

Created by the powerhouse duo Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler—among the most successful partnerships in picture book history—The Gruffalo is now a modern classic. Its beloved characters have leapt from the page to the stage and screen, becoming staples of storytime everywhere.Despite his ferocious exterior, beneath the surface lies a creature who is more puzzled than fearsome, as he finds himself outwitted by the cunning mouse. Yet, despite his vulnerability, the Gruffalo remains an iconic symbol of the power of imagination and the unexpected twists that lie within the pages of a captivating story.

Role in the story

Why The Gruffalo matters

The Gruffalo is part of the chain of encounters that makes The Gruffalo easy to follow. Each character helps children understand the pattern of danger, imagination and quick thinking at the heart of the story.

If you are looking for the whole plot, start with the Gruffalo story overview. If you want the complete cast, visit the Gruffalo character guide.

Questions about the Gruffalo character

Answers for searches about what a Gruffalo is, what he looks like, what the name means and how the character works in the story.

Listen screen-free

Hear The Gruffalo in the story

Voxblock is a screen-free audiobook player for children. Place the physical Gruffalo audiobook on the player and the story starts, making it easy for children to revisit favourite characters independently.

View The Gruffalo audiobook