"The Toot & Puddle series captures the essence of National Geographic's brand and mission by encouraging exploration and adventure," said Meir. "The holiday special that aired on Noggin and was also licensed to a number of international broadcasters, including YLE (Finland), DR1 (Denmark) and ATV (Hong Kong), was a big hit with children and their families, and we are thrilled to be working with Mercury Filmworks to bring them more adventures and entertainment from the best-selling book series."

"Holly Hobbie's Toot & Puddle books are endearing and full of extraordinary charm. Toot and Puddle are two fun-loving characters who are adventurers at heart, and we are excited to bring Holly's uniquely expressive work to the screen," said NGKE vice president of development Tara Sorensen.

Toot & Puddle is an entertaining and heartwarming preschool series about two adventurous piglet pals, Toot, the world-traveler, and Puddle, the backyard explorer, who go on exciting journeys both near and far.

Episode themes in the series will be based on the Toot & Puddle books, which have sold over 1 million print copies worldwide. The Toot & Puddle franchise celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and will release its next book, Let It Snow, in October 2007. The holiday special Toot & Puddle: I'll Be Home for Christmas is available on DVD through Warner Home Video.

Fans of the Toot & Puddle special and soon, the series, can log on to the interactive web site at www.tootandpuddle.com for fun games and activities.