Illustrator Axel Scheffler urges publishers to act against AI-generated Gruffalo book covers

Axel Scheffler, the German illustrator of the Gruffalo, expressed shock over AI-generated book covers featuring his character, such as "The Gruffalo at the Oktoberfest." He had previously ignored artificial intelligence but now demands that publishers take measures against such misuse. The Gruffalo, created in 1999 with author Julia Donaldson, remains a global children's favorite. A new book, "The Gruffalo's Grandma," was recently published, with Scheffler noting it was not driven by publisher pressure or money.

Illustrator Axel Scheffler urges publishers to act against AI-generated Gruffalo book covers
Published Sep 25, 2026
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