Celebrated Canadian kid lit author Ashley Spires (Binky the Space Cat, The Most Magnificent Thing) has a third animated TV series in development, Burt the Beetle. Spires’s Eisner Award-nominated book series about a kind beetle who may not have the abilities of the other bugs but is a fantastic friend is being developed into a new preschool series with TVOkids.
The TV series is created by the writing trio behind previous adapted toon Agent Binky: Pets of the Universe (Treehouse TV, Peacock) — Ashley Spires, Hugh Duffy and Carolyn Hay — and set to be produced by Epic Story Media (Bubble’s Hotel, Hop). Spires, Duffy, Hay, Ken Faier and Steve Couture of Epic Story Media will serve as executive producers, with Duffy and Hay adding their story editing talents.
Meanwhile, Kids Can Press has acquired a third Burt the Beetle book to add to the publishing series. The little insect’s adventures have been translated into four languages.
“At the heart of what we do is work with amazing creators who are passionate, authentic and understand what kids love,” said Faier. “We’re thrilled to be partnered with Ashley, Carolyn, Hugh and TVOkids and we look forward to sharing Burt the Beetle with the global community soon.”
“TVOkids is thrilled to bring the beloved Burt the Beetle book series to life with Epic Story Media. The books distinctive graphic style is sure to captivate audiences and translate beautifully to the screen,” said Kirsten Hurd, Commissioning Editor, TVOkids. “We’re excited to help build a captivating universe with entertaining and funny stories that will spark curiosity about the world of insects.”
