Kids
Disney Publishing to launch new book; $1 mn marketing campaign in the offing
MUMBAI: Disney Publishing Worldwide will unveil to the world its latest novel, Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg, by Newbery Honor-winning author Gail Carson Levine.
This new illustrated novel for girls aged 6-10 builds upon the enormous popularity of Tinker Bell and the Walt Disney Company’s heritage of more than 75 years of creating fairy tale magic.
The book is the cornerstone of Disney Fairies, a new franchise from The Walt Disney Company. Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg launched with an enormous one million copy printing in 45 countries — and was translated into 32 languages. The launch of the book will be supported by a $1 million marketing campaign.
The world of Neverland in J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan serves as the inspiration for Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg, which introduces a new group of fairies, each with a personality that will appeal to young girls — from feisty, big-hearted Tinker Bell to the newest fairy, Prilla, to Mother Dove, the wisest creature in Never Land.
The launch event, which will be held at Downtown Disney in Anaheim, California in the year of Disneyland’s 50th anniversary, will re-introduce hundreds of girls and their parents to Tinker Bell and her world of fairy friends.
Levine will read an excerpt from the book in a magical fairy environment while David Christiana, the critically acclaimed illustrator, will bring her words to life. During the event, Disney will introduce a new Disney Fairies collectors’ pin and exclusive lithograph of one of the book’s illustrations, as Levine signs books for her young fans.
“For over one hundred years, girls all over the world have embraced Tinker Bell and taken her into their hearts. With the launch of Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg, we are thrilled to introduce girls across the globe to Tinker Bell’s world of fairy friends and give her a voice for the very first time,” said The Walt Disney Company president, COO and CEO-elect Robert Iger.
Following Disney Publishing Worldwide’s initial launch, The Walt Disney Company will provide unparalleled and synergistic support for Disney Fairies across its business units. The campaign begins with the recent launch of http://www.disneyfairies.com, a global online experience where visitors can explore and learn about Tinker Bell and other Never Land fairies. The entertainment experience will continue with a series of chapter books planned for spring 2006.
In addition, multiple films are currently in development to further extend the storytelling and bring the world of Tinker Bell and her friends to life. Disney Consumer Products will bring Disney Fairies into the homes and lives of girls around the world with a breadth of product that will inspire, enlighten, and encourage them to believe — from apparel and toys to home decor and stationery.
“The response to the novel has been tremendous both globally and throughout the Walt Disney Company. We at Disney Publishing are so thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the way for the entire company in bringing Disney Fairies to life. It was an amazing opportunity to work with Gail Carson Levine, a real master of the modern fairytale, in creating Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg. The novel’s rich story, captivating illustrations, and that touch of Disney magic is bound to make Disney Fairies a phenomenal success with girls around the world in the years to come,” says Disney Publishing Worldwide president Deborah Dugan.
Levine will embark on a national and international book tour, visiting retailers in 10 US states throughout September followed by visits to Japan, UK, Finland, Germany, Spain and Portugal.
Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg can be found at bookstores in the US from 1 September, 2005 and will roll out around the world shortly thereafter.
Kids
Sony YAY! launches ‘House of Masti’ to celebrate 20 years of Shin chan
Comedian Kiku Sharda joins the fun with a special rap track as the mischievous icon returns to Indian TV.
MUMBAI: Shin chan is back and this time, he’s bringing the whole house of masti with him! Sony YAY!, India’s leading kids’ entertainment channel, has unveiled ‘House of Masti’, a specially curated programming block to mark 20 years of the iconic animated series Shin chan on Indian television. The campaign transforms the beloved character’s mischievous world into a fresh, high-energy viewing experience. It features new episodes, fan-favourite moments, and themed programming stunts, all designed to stand out from regular broadcasts.
Adding extra sparkle to the celebration, popular comedian Kiku Sharda has joined the campaign. He anchors the integration with a lively rap track titled ‘Shin chan ka YAY! Dhamaal’, infusing contemporary music and humour into the beloved series.
Sony YAY! business head of kids and animation Ambesh Tiwari said, “Over the past 20 years, Shin chan has built a strong and enduring connection with audiences in India. With ‘House of Masti’, we are celebrating this milestone through a differentiated, campaign-led experience. Kiku Sharda and the rap track add a fun, high-energy layer that will resonate with today’s kids and families.”
Starting 27 April, viewers can enjoy the World Television Premiere of Shin chan along with new episodes and an exciting lineup of blockbuster movies on Sony YAY!.
By blending nostalgia with fresh, engaging content, Sony YAY! is ensuring that the cheeky, laughter-filled adventures of Shin chan continue to entertain and connect with new generations across the country.
In a world full of serious cartoons, Shin chan remains delightfully naughty and with ‘House of Masti’, Sony YAY! is making sure his brand of chaos stays as fresh and fun as ever. Get ready for some serious masti!
