Julia Donaldson: A life in language

Julia Donaldson: A life in language

From Word of Mouth by BBC Radio 4

October 2, 2025 · 34 min

About this episode

Julia Donaldson discusses her writing journey and influences with Michael Rosen.

Julia Donaldson, author of The Gruffalo and many other beloved children's books, tells Michael Rosen about her own writing, reading, speaking and listening. Her childhood experiences were a big influence, as was busking in Paris and writing songs which ended up on Play School and Play Away. One of the songs became her first book, A Squash and a Squeeze. They also talk about Julia's new book, Paper Chase, illustrated by Victoria Sandøy. Produced for BBC Audio Bristol by Beth O'Dea, in partnership with the Open University. Subscribe to the Word of Mouth podcast and never miss an episode: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/b006qtnz

People in this episode

Host: Michael Rosen

Guest: Julia Donaldson

Topics covered

  • children's literature
  • writing
  • influence of childhood
  • songwriting
  • interview

Keywords

  • Julia Donaldson
  • children's books
  • The Gruffalo
  • Paper Chase
  • songwriting

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: BBC Radio 4, BBC Audio Bristol, Open University

Books & works: The Gruffalo, A Squash and a Squeeze, Paper Chase

More episodes of Word of Mouth

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Word of Mouth podcast page.