Company secures global licensing rights to classic children’s picture book.
Coolabi has secured global licensing rights for classic children’s picture book, Giraffes Can’t Dance.
Written by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees, Giraffes Can’t Dance celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. It is published by Orchard Books (part of the Hachette Children’s Group) and has been translated into 34 languages, selling over ten million copies worldwide.
Giraffes Can’t Dance promotes self-esteem in young children by championing the important and universal message of acceptance and self-belief.
Coolabi is now aiming to build an extensive licensing portfolio across core categories, driven by plush, apparel, games and puzzles.
“Giraffes Can’t Dance is such a beloved book all over the world and remains one of the best-selling picture books of the last 20 years,” said Allison Watkins, director of consumer products and TV distribution at Coolabi Group. “I am delighted that Coolabi Licensing have the opportunity to extend this wonderful book in to merchandise for the very first time.
“The beautiful colour palette and wonderful characters created by Giles and Guy will work across all product to delight boys and girls across the world.”
Karen Lawler, head of licensed content at Hachettte Children’s Group, added: “There is a reason Giraffes Can’t Dance has been a perennial bestseller for 20 years. Giles Andreae’s text is a fun, funny celebration of acceptance, with gorgeous, jubilant illustrations from Guy Parker-Rees.
“Those same elements are sure to make its merchandise a huge hit. Coolabi are a brilliant partner and we can’t wait to see Giraffes Can’t Dance products on the shelf.”
The news follows the recent announcement of the new Giraffes Can’t Dance stage adaptation for Christmas 2019.
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