Random House Takes On Cartoon Network’s Generator Rex

ATLANTA: Cartoon Network Enterprises has signed up Random House Children’s Books to create a full line of storybooks based on the action-adventure series Generator Rex.

The Random House Children’s Books program will launch the collection in summer 2011 with a Step into Reading leveled reader and a deluxe 3D storybook. Additional readers, storybooks and activity books will follow.

The Generator Rex property follows a 15-year-old typical teenager who has abnormal powers, including the ability to make his fists grow to the size of boulders, sprout a jet pack on his back and turn his legs into a motorcycle. Further partners on the series include Mattel, the brands global master toy partner; Activision, for interactive extensions; Hallmark, for party goods and social expression; Hybrid Apparel and DC Comics. CNE is launching the first home-entertainment title for the property through Warner Home Video.

“Generator Rex is driven by action-packed storytelling and strong characters that excite fans and leave them wanting more,” said Christina Miller, the senior VP of CNE. “Random House, and the publishing category as a whole, are key components to further expanding the Generator Rex universe into an immersive world that tells Rex’s story off screen in a fun and engaging way.”

Dennis Shealy, the editorial director at Random House/Golden Books Young Readers Group, added, “Cartoon Network is a favorite among families, and Generator Rex is a powerhouse TV show with everything kids like: fast-paced action, sarcastic humor, creepy villains and monsters—and my personal favorite: Rex’s talking monkey sidekick. Combine that with some of Random House Children’s Books’ strongest formats, and you’ve got a recipe for retail success.”