Scholastic has acquired the master publishing rights for Boat Rocker Studios’ Dino Ranch, an animated series for preschoolers that is scheduled to debut on Disney Junior in the U.S. in the first quarter of 2021. The inaugural books are set for a fall 2021 release. The deal includes global English language rights, and Scholastic’s offices worldwide will collaborate on developing the titles.
The show is a western, starring three siblings who live with their family on a ranch in a “pre-westoric” era where they coexist with dinosaurs. The series combines both action-adventure and comedic elements. “It’s such a fun property, with lots going on,” said Debra Dorfman, Scholastic’s v-p and publisher, global licensing, brands, and media. “It ticks all of our boxes,” she added, citing the themes of family, friends, and community; a diverse cast; and lessons on how to collaborate to solve problems. Dorfman believes the property will appeal to all genders and lends itself to family viewing. “I think parents will love watching it with their kids. That’s something we look for.”
Scholastic holds the rights for formats including readers, sticker story books, novelty titles, activity books, and audio books. The presence of both dinosaurs and ranch animals brings possibilities for nonfiction as well as traditional licensed fiction formats, Dorfman said. Development is in its early stages, but the inaugural list is likely to feature at least three titles, with an introductory storybook and a novelty format among the mix.
Scholastic is the second licensee to sign on for Dino Ranch, following Jazwares, which was named the global master toy partner last fall.
