DreamWorks Animation is putting pen to paper with the launch of DreamWorks Press, an in-house operation which will publish digital and print books inspired by the studio’s vast IP library. The newly formed division will also join with The Perseus Books Group for the sale and distribution of its digital and print books through Perseus’ Publishers Group West distribution unit.
DreamWorks Press signals the studio’s first-ever, year-round publishing program to establish permanent shelf space across top retailers as well as deliver content through a diverse range of formats and price points.
The department will be run by Emma Whittard, an 18-year veteran of kids publishing including eight with Disney, and supported by DreamWorks Animation’s Head of Franchise, Shawn Dennis, who previously oversaw publishing for American Girl.The in-house staff will produce digital and print books, along with book apps featuring DreamWorks Animation franchises including Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, Shrek and the upcoming B.O.O.: Bureau of Otherworldly Operations, as well as assets from the DreamWorks Classics portfolio and recent acquisition AwesomenessTV.
The material generated by DreamWorks Press in North America will also provide a wealth of book assets for the studio’s international licensees for use in the planning and creation of their DreamWorks Animation ranges in territories worldwide.
The first wave of books from DreamWorks Press is likely to launch in time for the 2014 holiday season.
