9 Story Media Group announces production of new animated children’s series
October, 1 2018
Toronto, Canada – October 1, 2018 – 9 Story Media Group is pleased to announce that it is in production on the new animated series XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM for PBS KIDS. Based on the children’s book series, Ordinary People Change the World by New York Times bestselling author Brad Meltzer and illustrator Christopher Eliopoulos, XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM is produced by 9 Story Media Group’s award-winning animation studio Brown Bag Films. 9 Story Distribution International holds worldwide distribution rights (excluding Canada), with global licensing and merchandising rights managed by 9 Story Brands. The series will debut in the U.S. on PBS stations, the new 24/7 PBS KIDS channel and PBS KIDS digital platforms in fall 2019.
The first season of XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM will include 74 x 11 minute episodes with accompanying interstitial content and a one-hour special. The series can also be packaged into half hour episodes. 9 Story Distribution International will premiere the pilot episode at MIPJunior later this month.
Geared towards kids ages 4-7, the series follows the adventures of Xavier Riddle, his sister Yadina and their friend Brad. In each episode, they face a problem, and turn to the Secret Museum, a hidden room under an ordinary museum, to help them solve it. The museum allows Xavier, Yadina and Brad to travel back in time to meet real-life historical figures when they were kids. They witness pivotal moments that shaped each of these iconic people, and learn about aspects of good character and social-emotional lessons – such as being resilient in the face of adversity and making and accomplishing goals. Each episode is designed to help viewers make the connection between the attributes that made each historical figure a hero, and those same attributes within themselves, while approaching history in an engaging, age-appropriate manner.
“For me, XAVIER RIDDLE ANDTHE SECRET MUSEUM isn’t just a show – it’s my dream for my daughter and my sons,” said author Brad Meltzer. “My dream is for all of us to witness how the most ordinary person can become truly extraordinary through their actions. I want to show kids that there is potential in each of us. Every hero in the show was once a kid – smart, curious and full of adventure – just like them. They too can be heroes.”
“XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM is a truly special show that will inspire kids to believe they can change the world. I can’t think of a better way to empower the next generation,” said Vince Commisso, President and CEO of 9 Story. “Brad and Christopher’s bestselling book series Ordinary People Change the World inspires kids and parents alike, and we’re thrilled to bring their Xavier concept to new audiences at PBS KIDS and around the world via an animated series.”
Produced at Brown Bag Films’ Toronto studio, executive producers on the series are Vince Commisso, Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos, Fonda Snyder and Rob Weisbach. The series is directed by Cory Bobiak (Peg + Cat), with Meghan Read (Dot, Dino Dan) in the role of executive story editor. The look of the show is based on Christopher Eliopoulos’ illustrations featured in the Ordinary People Change the World series.
About 9 Story Media Group
9 Story Media Group is a leading creator, producer and distributor of kids and family focused intellectual property. Its award-winning animation studio, Brown Bag Films, is recognized around the world for best-in-class brands such as Doc McStuffins, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Octonauts, Wild Kratts, Peter Rabbit and The Magic School Bus: Rides Again. The company’s international distribution arm, 9 Story Distribution International based in Dublin, represents 3,500 half-hours of animated and live-action programming, seen on some of the most respected international channels and platforms. Its in-house consumer products division, 9 Story Brands, builds international entertainment brands for kids, with expertise across creative, brand marketing, and licensing. With facilities in Toronto, Dublin, Manchester and New York, 9 Story Media Group employs nearly 700 creative and corporate staff. www.9story.com
About the Ordinary People Change the World Series
Inspired by his love of history, #1 bestselling author Brad Meltzer was determined to give his kids better heroes to emulate. Teaming up with award-winning artist Christopher Eliopoulos, they created the Ordinary People Change the World nonfiction picture book series that focuses on the traits kids can aspire to in order to live heroically themselves. With over 2.5 million books in print, including titles like I am Amelia Earhart, I am Abraham Lincoln, I am Rosa Parks, I am Jane Goodall, and their newest, I am Neil Armstrong, their series from Dial Books for Young Readers sits on the shelves of children nationwide.
For further information:
Jennifer Ansley, Vice President, Marketing AND Communications, 9 Story Media Group
+1 416 530-9900 ext 230, jennifer.ansley@9story.com