The Smeds and Smoos Early Reader

Soar into space with this glorious love story of alien folk, from the creators of The Gruffalo and Stick Man, now in an early reader format to support children who are gaining confidence in reading.

The Smeds (who are red) never mix with the Smoos (who are blue). So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love, their families strongly disapprove. But peace is restored and love conquers all in this happiest of love stories. There’s even a gorgeous purple baby to celebrate!

This Early Reader edition contains the complete classic story and pictures, in a pocket-book format, and with an extra-clear font and layout, to support children who are gaining confidence in reading.

Winner at the British Book Awards 2020 - Children's Illustrated & Non-Fiction Book of the Year

With fabulous rhymes and breathtaking illustrations, this book is literally out of this world!

From the creators of The Gruffalo, Stick Man and ZOG, which have all been made into animated films shown on BBC1. The animated film of The Smeds and the Smoos is the winner of an International Emmy Award.

The animated film of Tabby McTat is on BBC One at Christmas with voice artists including Jodie Whittaker (Doctor Who) as the narrator, Rob Brydon (Gavin and Stacey) as Fred, Sope Dirisu (Gangs of London) as Tabby McTat, alongside Cariad Lloyd, Joanna Scanlan and Susan Wokoma.

Look out for Jonty Gentoo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler in 2024.

Praise for The Smeds and the Smoos:

'A book for our time.' BBC Radio 4

'Blast off with the most exciting book yet from the creator of The Gruffalo. Get ready for a wild and wonderful journey through space in a book that is perfect for reading together.' The Sun

'The Gruffalo team's own Jabberwocky, with rhyme and nonsense words but a happy ending, inventively illustrated by Scheffler.' The Times

'A timely tale of tolerance that's fun to read aloud.' Daily Express