Universal Studios Consumer Products Group has acquired the rights to license Where the Wild Things Are (HarperCollins). Merchandise will feature Maurice Sendak's drawings, as well as new art in the same illustration style. "We own the film and television rights," said Universal spokesperson Colleen Foster, "so licensing the classic is a great way to begin the program."
This is the first broad licensing effort for the property, although McFarlane Toys released a line of limited-edition collectible figures in 2000. Products are expected to include everything from toys and interactive games to food and home furnishings; the first two licensees are MJC for men's and boys' boxers, loungewear and neckwear, and Balzout for t-shirts, knitted tops, fleece and hats. The introduction of the first merchandise will coincide with the 40th anniversary of the book, a milestone Harper is promoting in bookstores.
