Latest news with #TheGruffalo
Daily Mirror
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
I read 500 children's books with my kids – these are 10 we keep going back to
One dad explains how he's read more than 500 children's books with his son and daughter over the years - and these are the 10 that they've enjoyed the most Reading with young children has a multitude of benefits. Experts concur that it can be instrumental in language, cognitive and emotional development, whilst also fostering imagination and creativity. Books can enhance social skills and cultural awareness, as well as honing concentration and focus. But, just as crucially, reading with kids is enjoyable. I've always made a point of reading with my eight year old son and five year old daughter at bedtime, as part of our nightly routine. Over the years, I reckon I've read at least 500 children's books. Some have lodged themselves more firmly in my memory – probably because I've had to read them over and over again. These days, my little lad is content reading chapter books by himself and his sister requires my assistance less and less. Occasionally, though, they still relish revisiting an old favourite. Via The Mirror US, here are the 10 books, suitable for children under seven, that we've enjoyed the most... 1. Monkey Puzzle by Julia Donaldson (2000). Known as Where's My Mom? in the US The undisputed GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) of authors for younger children, Julia Donaldson has gifted us classics such as The Gruffalo, Stick Man and Superworm. Penned in Donaldson's signature rhyming prose, the tale follows a young monkey who gets lost in the jungle. A well-meaning butterfly attempts to assist but ends up leading her to various other creatures - an elephant, snake, spider, frog and bat - due to constant misinterpretations of her descriptions. It's a joy to read, educational, concludes on a happy note and is vividly brought to life by Axel Scheffler's distinctive illustrations. I've recited it so often that I can now do so from memory. Buy Monkey Puzzle by Julia Donaldson on Amazon. 2. Meltdown! by Jill Murphy (2016) Without exaggeration, navigating a supermarket with a toddler can feel akin to stepping into the Seventh Circle of Hell. The late, esteemed Jill Murphy, likely drawing from personal experiences, encapsulates this ordeal flawlessly in Meltdown! In the story, Ruby the rabbit joins her mum for a shopping trip. Initially, she's keen to be helpful, but in typical toddler fashion, she soon becomes overzealous, throws a monumental tantrum over a 'piggy cake', embarrasses her mum at the till, and wails all the way home before eventually saying sorry and returning to her adorable self. My children adore it because they see themselves in Ruby. I cherish it because I've been in Ruby's mum's shoes on more than one dreadful occasion. Buy Meltdown! by Jill Murphy on Amazon. 3. The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith (2009) Children's literature is often a treasure trove of life lessons, but ' The Wonky Donkey ' bucks the trend with its delightful dose of pure silliness that has captured hearts everywhere. Originally penned as a ditty by Kiwi author Craig Smith, inspired by the gag "What do you call a donkey with three legs? A wonky donkey!", this book became an overnight sensation in 2018 when a video of a Scottish granny chuckling her way through it with her grandson went viral, sending sales through the roof. A hilarious rhyming challenge, 'The Wonky Donkey' is a joy to read out loud and has found a special place on bookshelves and in the hearts of readers. Buy T he Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith from Amazon. 4. You're Called What? by Kes Gray (2018) Kes Gray, a celebrated children's author, certainly knows how to tickle the funny bones of both youngsters and grown-ups who've kept their childlike humour intact. While his famed Oi Frog! and the Oi! series are staples in my children's collection, it's another one of his works, You're Called What?, that truly takes the cake for comedy gold. Set against the backdrop of the Ministry of Silly Animal Names (a nod to Monty Python's iconic sketch), this book introduces kids to hilariously named creatures like the monkeyface prickleback and the pink fairy armadillo, while teaching them about these lesser-known species. And let's be honest, 'blue-footed booby' will always be a hoot. Buy You're Called What? by Kes Gray from Amazon. 5. The Trouble With Mum by Babette Cole (1983) The Trouble With Mum by Babette Cole, the vintage gem of this list, was passed down by a cousin. But it absolutely stands the test of time. The story is told by a little girl whose mum is always turning people into toads, wearing funny hats and doing other embarrassing things. The girl's friends think her mum's great, but their parents aren't quite as enamoured – until she saves the day, rushing to put out a fire at the school. Our version of the book is a 'four for the price of one' deal, with Dad, Gran and Grandad all given the same treatment. The late Babette Cole's illustrations are every bit as good as her words. Buy The Trouble With Mum by Babette Cole at Amazon. 6. There's A Pig Up My Nose by John Dougherty (2017) There was a period of around a month – which felt more like a year – when my daughter asked to read There's A Pig Up My Nose every night, often more than once. To make matters even more tedious, every read came with a slew of questions, mainly about the feasibility of animals becoming stuck up children's noses. Thankfully, though, there's plenty to like about the book, which follows Natalie, who enlists the help of her schoolmates to remove the little animal. Very loud, dramatic animal noises are a mandatory requirement. 7. Poo In The Zoo by Steve Smallman (2015) If there's one thing guaranteed to make kids laugh, it's poop. And in Steve Smallman's book, there's lots of it – including a variety that glows green. Poo In The Zoo by Steve Smallman tells the story of zookeeper Bob McGrew, who adores his job except for the task of cleaning out the animals' enclosures. When an iguana produces a radioactive-looking deposit, it attracts crowds, including a poo museum owner who forever changes Bob's life. The book even includes a pictorial glossary of various animals' droppings, which I can now confidently identify unaided. Buy Poo In The Zoo by Steve Smallman on Amazon. 8. The Disgusting Sandwich by Gareth Edwards (2013) While plot twists aren't common in children's literature, this book has one. It may not be on par with The Sixth Sense or The Usual Suspects, but it's still an unexpected ending. Even after the initial read, when children know exactly what will happen, they seem to enjoy it just as much. The narrative follows a hungry badger eyeing a sandwich dropped by a little boy in the park. The sandwich gets squashed, ridden over, and slithered on before the badger finally reaches it. Buy The Disgusting Sandwich by Gareth Edwards on Amazon. 9. Alan's Big, Scary Teeth by Jarvis (2016) Jarvis skilfully narrates the tale of an alligator who loses his intimidation factor when the other animals discover he has dentures. But it's not just the author's sharp wit and understated, matter-of-fact tone that impresses – his illustrations are equally captivating. Both hilarious and heartwarming, like many other children's books, it carries a message about the significance of friendship, honesty and kindness. Buy Alan's Big Scary Teeth by Jarvis on Amazon. 10. There's A Snake in My School by David Walliams SPOILER ALERT: In this book by David Walliams, the nasty headmistress Miss Bloat is devoured by a pupil's pet snake, leading to jubilation among the schoolchildren. Given the slightly dark nature of the ending, I've unsurprisingly had to answer several questions about snakes consuming people and teachers being killed. Despite all that, though, the book is a big hit with my kids. Walliams has a talent for creating stories and using language that makes children chuckle.
Scoop
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Hawke's Bay Roars For More: Extra Show Added For The Gruffalo At Toitoi This July
Blink and you'll miss it—tickets for The Gruffalo are vanishing faster than you can shout, 'Oh help! Oh no! It's a Gruffalo!' In response to overwhelming demand, Toitoi – Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre is thrilled to announce a fourth performance of the beloved show, set for 2pm on Friday, 4 July. The internationally acclaimed production, based on the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, has captivated audiences around the world—from London's West End to Broadway. Now, in a rare treat for New Zealand families, this international hit will grace just two cities on its tour: Auckland and Hastings. That makes Toitoi the only regional venue to welcome this theatrical gem. 'We knew The Gruffalo would charm Hawke's Bay, but the demand has exceeded all expectations' says Glen Pickering, Toitoi's Presenter Services Manager. 'When international productions see how enthusiastically our community embraces world-class theatre, it puts Toitoi—and Hawke's Bay—firmly on the map. High-selling seasons like this one help us attract even more exceptional shows from around the globe to our region.' Presented by Tall Stories and CDP Theatre Producers, The Gruffalo brings the enchanting tale of a clever mouse and his imagined monster friend to life with sing-along songs, colourful characters, and vibrant staging. With all three existing performances down to the last few seats, the additional matinee is expected to sell quickly. Tickets for the new 2pm Friday performance are available now at and from the Hastings and Havelock North isites.
Wales Online
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Gavin and Stacey star's next project announced but fans will have to wait to see it
Gavin and Stacey star's next project announced but fans will have to wait to see it Gavin and Stacey star Rob Brydon is set to star in a new BBC animation Gavin and Stacey star Rob Brydon has landed an exciting new role (Image: (Image: PA) ) Gavin and Stacey star Rob Brydon has landed an exciting new role however fans have to wait a while before they can watch it. The actor, 60, who is known for his role as Uncle Bryn, will star in new BBC animation The Scarecrows' Wedding, which is based on the hit book by Julia Donaldson. The half-hour animated special features an all-star voice cast with Rob voicing Reginald Rake. Meanwhile co-star Jessie Buckley will voice Betty O'Barley and Domhnall Gleeson as Harry O'Hay. The storyline will be led by Sophie Okonedo, who is the Narrator and viewers will be able to watch the new film this Christmas on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. The Scarecrows' Wedding is an enchanting story about two devoted scarecrows, Betty O'Barley and Harry O'Hay, who are planning a wedding to remember. The actor is well known for his role as Uncle Bryn on Gavin and Stacey Article continues below Ruth Jones shares huge career update after Gavin and Stacey finale READ MORE: The synopsis continues: 'When Harry insists on leaving the farm to collect one last thing for their big day, a smooth-talking scarecrow named Reginald Rake swoops in with plans of his own. 'Chaos follows, and soon Betty's in danger and everything's at risk. Can Harry get back in time and save the day? Full of heart, humour and adventure, this is the joyful tale about loyalty, love and learning that the most important thing isn't a grand gesture – it's simply being together.' Speaking about the movie, Rob's co-star Jessie Buckley said: "I love this story. The film has so many beautiful little moments but I love the scene where the first glimmers of love get expressed between Harry and Betty – the anxiety and the tentativeness around that.' BBC and Magic Light Pictures announce The Scarecrows' Wedding, based on the hit book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler She added: 'They're both edging closer and closer to being in the relationship, realising that they want to be together… we've all been there. It's all about young love, and recognising what's important to you in life. " The film is the 13th animated special that Magic Light Pictures have produced for the BBC. Last year's animation, Tiddler, saw an audience of 7.3 million and the highest audience share on Christmas Day for a Magic Light Pictures film since The Gruffalo in 2009. Article continues below Director of BBC Drama Lindsay Salt added: 'We're incredibly proud of our enduring partnership with Julia, Axel and Magic Light Pictures, and can't wait to bring the Scarecrows' big day to millions of viewers across the UK this Christmas. "Much like the wedding itself, this charming, funny and exquisitely animated adventure has all the perfect ingredients.' The Scarecrows' Wedding will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One this Christmas.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Children to retell Gruffalo story in mix of four languages
The Community Language School at York St John University has been granted permission by the publishers of The Gruffalo to stage a multilingual reading of the well-known children's story. The book was originally written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, and was published by Macmillan's Children's Books, which has granted permission for the reading. Four children will retell the tale in a mix of English, Japanese, Italian, and Spanish. The Community Language School, which opened in 2022, offers free classes in multiple languages. Its team has now supported more than a hundred children with language learning, according to a spokesperson. The Community Language School aims to foster a love of languages and to keep heritage languages alive amongst younger generations. Dr Indu Meddegama, director and co-founder of the Community Language School, said: "Julia Donaldson is a masterful writer, and her stories have been translated into many languages, so we couldn't think of a better way to showcase language learning at the school. "With direction and guidance from our postgraduate student and performing arts practitioner, Emily Howarth, the children have brought this story to life in a truly multilingual and multicultural way. "My thanks to Macmillan Children's books for supporting this work, which promises to be a fantastic way to mark the end of a third year of the school. "I'm so proud of all our young people for taking part in such a memorable occasion." Mencia, Vega, and Emilia are three of the four children who will bring the exploits of the Gruffalo, mouse, fox, owl, and snake to life. Mencia, aged 13, said: "The best of it all is getting to perform with my Spanish, getting to mix two of my favourite things together, and I feel like it has helped me feel closer to the language." Vega, aged 10, said: "It's a fun way to develop my Spanish. "It's an interesting way to connect with other languages. "I'm really enjoying it and I am meeting lots of new friends." Emilia, aged 9, said: "I love learning Italian at the Community Language School, although sometimes it is a bit hard to go back to 'school!' "I especially like the play, The Gruffalo, and although I have a small role, I found out how much I like acting, so much so that I have been asking my mum to enrol me in a drama class." The Community Language School will present the multilingual reading of The Gruffalo on Saturday, May 31, at 3pm at the York St John Creative Centre. The audience will be composed of parents, carers, and Community Language School families. More information about the Community Language School is available at
Sydney Morning Herald
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sydney Morning Herald
‘Every empty seat is a missed opportunity': QPAC's new boss brings back kids' festival Out of the Box
Rachel Healy has strong views on the role of theatre on impressionable young minds. At the age of eight she was taken by her parents to see the musical Annie at the Adelaide Festival Centre. Her mind was blown. 'I wanted to be on stage with those orphans,' she admits. Healy's first job out of the University of South Australia was assistant editor at youth arts magazine Lowdown, where one of her earliest topics was QPAC's brand new biennial children's festival, Out of the Box. Some 33 years later, Healy is now QPAC's chief executive, and one of her tasks has been bringing back Out of the Box after a seven-year hiatus. 'It probably should have come back in '23 or '24, but every organisation was rebuilding after COVID, including QPAC,' Healy says. Out of the Box is a six-day event (Tuesday to Sunday, June 17-22) showcasing seven mainstage shows for kids, plus over a dozen workshops and activities, held in QPAC's theatres, event spaces, and at the State Library and QAGOMA. Shows include adaptations of kids' books The Gruffalo and Gurril Storm Bird, while workshops cover mindfulness, dance, a Bluey Puppetry Workshop and a cooking workshop in the kitchens of QPAC's fancy restaurant, Lyrebird.
