
The Snail and the Whale
Julia Donaldson
Illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Synopsis
A rhyming story about adventure and friendship, The Snail and the Whale is a bestselling classic by the unparalleled picture book partnership of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo.
One little snail longs to see the world and hitches a lift on the tail of an enormous whale. Together they go on an amazing journey – and when disaster strikes and the whale is beached in a bay, it's the tiny snail's big plan that saves the day.
This classic story has sold over 8 million copies worldwide and is a must-have addition to the bookshelves of all Donaldson and Scheffler fans – big and small!
Also available: The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo's Child, The Snail and the Whale, Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book, Room on the Broom, A Squash and a Squeeze and Monkey Puzzle.
Look out for the brand new Gruffalo picture book coming on 10th September 2026.
Details
Reviews
Bold and brilliant, wise and wackyThe Times
A joy to read aloudGuardian
Lashings of colourful comedyThe Times
Deeply satisfyingDaily Mail