HarperCollins Childrens Books will launch a book series based on the new television series, ASTRO BOY, produced by Sony Pictures Ent. Japan and Tezuka Prods. HarperKids Ent. has been granted North American English-language rights from Sony Pictures Consumer Products. HarperCollins will launch the 30 book program in September 2004 with seven titles: one color and activity book, one color and sticker book, two beginning readers, two storybooks, and one chapter book.
"We are thrilled to be teaming up again with Sony Pictures Consumer Products on this very exciting property, said Emily Brenner, editorial director of the HarperFestival imprint. "ASTRO BOY has all the elements of a great literary property for kids: terrific storylines, a strong central character, and amazing artwork that pops off the page."
"Were very excited to be partnering with HarperCollins, a worldwide leading publisher of childrens books, for ASTRO BOY," said Al Ovadia, evp, Sony Pictures Consumer Products. "We look forward to working with them to develop an out-of-this-world line of books that will capture the true essence of the new animé series."
ASTRO BOY airs Monday-Friday at 5:00 pm on Cartoon Network.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
