Lionsgate Secures Film and DVD/BD Rights to Magic Tree House Book Series

Continuing to expand its portfolio of brands and franchises, Lionsgate has acquired the rights to the Magic Tree House book series, it was announced today by Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-Chairs Rob Friedman and Patrick Wachsberger. The Company is developing multiple live-action films to be released by Lionsgate's Summit Entertainment label that are based on the adventures chronicled in the 54-volume Magic Tree House collection, one of the most beloved and recognizable children's brands in the world. Award-winning author Mary Pope Osborne will executive produce along with her husband, Will Osborne.

The Magic Tree House franchise has sold over 130 million books, been translated into more than 35 languages and even spawned a successful musical on its way to worldwide acclaim. The series, which chronicles the adventures of brother and sister Jack and Annie after they discover a mysterious tree house and find a collection of books that transports them through history, has earned acclaim from diverse groups including the American Booksellers Association and the National Council of Teachers of English. Published by Random House Children's Books, the most recent installment of the 54-volume series was released last month. The series has taught millions of children the joys of reading and is perennially at the top of national bestseller lists.