"The Gruffalo" is a popular children's book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. It tells the story of a clever little mouse who walks through a forest and encounters various predators, including a fox, an owl, and a snake. To avoid being eaten, the mouse invents a tale about a fearsome creature called the Gruffalo. As the mouse continues its journey, it unexpectedly meets the real Gruffalo, who is just as scary as described. However, the mouse cleverly uses its wits to outsmart the Gruffalo and ultimately turns the tables on the other animals, showcasing themes of intelligence and bravery.