Few of us can have managed to bring up our children without the magical tale of The Gruffalo being introduced at some point. For those of you at the beginning of this journey of parenthood with babies or toddlers, who may be hearing about The Gruffalo for the first time, believe me it will not be the last.
The Gruffalo is an enchanting tale that stays with a child throughout their lives, and will be part of many memories that you have of bedtime stories and quiet afternoons snuggled up on a chair with your child sat on your lap.
Why is it, that this delightful tale has enraptured two decades of children and their adults? I wonder if Julia Donaldson, author and current Children's Laureate or illustrator Axel Scheffler knew they were creating an all-time classic that will surely be delighting children for years to come. Perhaps it is the light hearted humour which never fails to disappoint, or the wonderful characters you meet on your journey through the deep dark wood. There is certainly a message to be delivered by this children’s tale, one that 'no one should get too big for ones boots' – a message that many people would benefit from learning (perhaps we should be reading this to certain adults too?)
The great news is that 2012 sees Tall Stories' magical adaptation on tour - The Gruffalo Live. With shows across the country there should be a chance for you to take your family along. You and your child can travel with Mouse in the deep dark forest meeting the predatory owl, fox and snake. How clever Mouse feels with himself and then…we can see how Mouse will react when he comes face to face with his imaginary terrifying creature The Gruffalo. Everyone will enjoy joining in with the catchy songs, and we are sure you will be singing them all the way home too!
