Studio’s minority acquisition and first-look deal with London-based publishing company aims to develop new stories from diverse voices.
9 Story Media Group has acquired a minority equity stake and struck a first-look deal with Knights Of, an award-winning, inclusive publishing company. Created by Aimée Felone and David Stevens, the London-based publisher focuses on improving inclusivity in children’s books, both on the shelf and behind the scenes.
Under the terms of the deal, 9 Story has exclusive first-look rights to acquire audio-visual, merchandising, theatrical and ancillary rights to Knights Of’s book properties. The publisher’s roster of award-winning, bestselling authors includes Elle McNicoll (“A Kind of Spark”), Kelly Yang (“Front Desk,” “Three Keys”), Jason Reynolds (“Look Both Ways,” “The Run” Series) and Sharna Jackson (“High-Rise Mystery”).
“We are thrilled to partner with Knights Of, which is changing the face of publishing by putting inclusion at the center of everything they do,” commented 9 Story president and CEO Vince Commisso. “Their mission to make books for every kid closely aligns with 9 Story’s core values and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are excited to collaborate with the Knights Of team and bring new stories from diverse voices to life on screen, so that no child is left behind.”
“Partnering with 9 Story is an absolute joy for us at Knights Of,” added Felone. “Bringing investors on board has always gone beyond financial motives for us, so to bring on board a company, who is not only at the forefront of their media sector, but also so closely aligned with our ethos was an incredible opportunity for everyone involved. We’re so excited to see how this partnership will further our mutual growth!”
9 Story Media Group and its Oscar-nominated studio, Brown Bag Films are known for popular children’s shows such as Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Blue’s Clues & You, Wild Kratts, and Doc McStuffins as well as newcomers Ada Twist, Scientist and Karma’s World.
Source: 9 Story Media Group
