The studio’s animated series adaptation of author Eric Hill’s bestselling children’s book series will follow Spot, the beloved, rambunctious, and curious puppy; former Amazon Kids+ exec Sarah Maizes comes on board to helm the project.
Industry-leading animation studio Guru Studio has optioned the TV rights to the best-selling and hugely popular children’s book series “Spot,” published by Puffin, part of Penguin Random House Children’s UK. Author Eric Hill originally introduced the popular pup in the first ever 1980 lift-the-flap storybook, “Where’s Spot?” According to the studio, the books are available in 60+ languages, including braille and sign language, across more than 20 formats. The bestselling series' popularity continues to grow throughout key global territories, including the U.S. and Australia.
The new animated TV series will follow Spot, the beloved, rambunctious, and curious puppy. Just like in the classic books, children will see their own everyday experiences reflected in Spot’s adventures with his family and friends as they discover the big, wide world around them.
“Spot holds a special place in the hearts of millions of families around the world as Eric Hill’s dynamic storytelling and lift-the-flap discovery moments invite children to become part of the story,” said Guru Studio president and executive creative director Frank Falcone. “As stewards of this cherished literary legacy, we will inspire that same engaged curiosity, bringing a fresh and contemporary feel for today’s preschoolers.”
“Puffin is proud to be the home of Eric Hill’s beloved ‘Spot,’” said Francesca Dow, managing director Penguin Random House Children’s U.K. “His child-like, inquisitive nature and boundless energy have captivated small children for over 40 years. Spot’s timeless appeal lies in his simplicity and in Eric’s ability to capture the essence of early childhood experiences. Guru recognizes Spot’s unique appeal, and this, together with an impressive portfolio and roster of talent, creates an exciting opportunity to bring Spot to new audiences via animation. We can't wait to see Spot come bounding onto screen to excite and entertain millions of young children and their families, reaching new fans and old.”
Helming the project for Guru is award-winning children’s author and TV veteran Sarah Maizes, a former executive at Amazon Kids+ and the Jim Henson Company. Her credits include Harriet the Spy (AppleTV+), Dinosaur Train (PBSKids), Randi Zuckerberg’s Dot. and Hello Kitty: Super Style (Amazon Kids+).
Guru Studio is the animation studio behind popular children’s properties such as PAW Patrol, Netflix’s True and the Rainbow Kingdom, and Sesame Streets animated spin-off Mecha Builders. The studio is also currently in production on the family mini-series adaptation of the beloved classic “Charlotte's Web” for Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max.
Source: Guru Studio
Debbie Diamond Sarto is news editor at Animation World Network.
