Walliams writes first ever sequel with Gangsta Granny Strikes Again

Children's author David Walliams has written his first-ever book sequel with Gangsta Granny Strikes Again!

HarperCollins Children's Books will publish the new book on 16th November in hardback with simultaneous e-book and audio editions. The book will be illustrated by Tony Ross and the audio will be narrated by Walliams himself alongside a star-studded cast.

The original Gangsta Granny, published in 2013, is still Walliams' bestseller and has sold 1.87 million copies to date across all print editions in the UK for £9.5m through Nielsen BookScan. It has since inspired a BBC film, a play and even a theme-park ride. A 10th anniversary edition of the original book was released in September.

HarperCollins says the sequel will be launched "with an unparalleled PR and marketing campaign to include high-profile media coverage, live events and unmissable trade-marketing support for booksellers across the nation". The flagship campaign will be amplified with World of Walliams partners across retail, arts and entertainment. 

Gangsta Granny Strikes Again! sees Ben getting used to life without his beloved granny, who as well as being a cabbage enthusiast, and a Scrabble partner was an international jewel thief known as The Black Cat. The publisher said: "Now, only the memory of their extraordinary adventure to steal the Crown Jewels lives on. Then something inexplicable happens. World-famous treasures are stolen in the dead of night and the clues point to none other than The Black Cat! But that’s impossible…?"

Walliams said: “I have never written a sequel to one of my stories before. I was waiting until I had an idea that felt special. Once I had come up with the central idea I couldn’t wait to start. This was a joy to write and I hope it will be a joy to read too. It is a love letter to all the grannies of the world.”

Ann-Janine Murtagh, executive publisher, added: “We are always excited to announce David’s new book for Christmas and this one is a truly wonderful treat as he makes a triumphant return to the world of Gangsta Granny in a stunning sequel that is just as heartfelt and endearing as the first. A beautifully written companion to the original title, Gangsta Granny Strikes Again! is a glorious farce that will have children laughing out loud as they join hero Ben in solving the mystery of The Black Cat. The book twinkles with Walliams magical storytelling, a spirit of adventure, a warm heart and the most fabulous twist ever!”