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Hodder acquires tie-ins to Famous Five

12.10.07 Katherine Rushton

Hodder Children's Books has acquired rights to a series of tie-in books to the new animated 'Famous Five—On the Case' series, in a new deal which secures its future as "the lead publisher" for the Enid Blyton literary estate until 2026.

The agreement comes in line with plans by Chorion, the intellectual property developer which holds all the Blyton rights, to develop her literary creations with a raft of new spin off series, in books and on television.

Hodder will publish 13 TV tie-in books for the new Famous Five show until 2013. The 26-part series launches in the UK on the Disney Channel in 2008, and follows the children of the original Famous Five characters on a new set of adventures. Each book will contain two novelisations.

Hodder will also publish The Famous Five Adventure Survival Guide, a diary supposedly written by the original Famous Five cast. The deal also renews Hodder's contract to be "the lead publisher" of Blyton's classic Famous Five and Secret Seven stories until 2026. It has also renewed audio rights for Famous Five, Secret Seven, Naughtiest Girl, Malory Towers and St Clare's until 2018.

M.d. Marlene Johnson said: "We are delighted that Enid Blyton's properties are to remain with her original publisher Hodder Children's Books. Our continuing aim is to celebrate the classics alongside new publishing. The strong working relationship we have with Chorion will help to support this
and ensure these books are treasured by future generations."

Jeff Norton, director of brand development at Chorion added: "Producing new stories and characters for Famous Five is a significant development for the property and it was important that publishing is at the heart of the new venture. Working with the right partner is also critical. Hodder Children's Books' experience and understanding of Blyton's work is unrivalled. We look
forward to seeing the final results."

Katherine Rushton Rights deal children's Hodder Famous Five Chorion

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