Lupus Films to Adapt Brambly Hedge Books

The London-based animation studio Lupus Films has optioned the rights to adapt the classic countryside Brambly Hedge stories.

Originally written and illustrated by Jill Barklem, the Brambly Hedge series, published by HarperCollins Children’s Books, focuses on the adventures of a hidden community of mice in the English countryside. Lupus Films picked up the rights to the series from the author’s estate in a deal brokered by Rockpool Licensing.

Lupus is initially developing the property as a Christmas special, with further episodes to follow. HarperCollins is set to launch a celebratory publishing program to commemorate the book series’ 40th anniversary in October.

Ruth Fielding, joint managing director at Lupus Films, said: “The Brambly Hedge characters stand tail to tail with the most classic British literary characters and we cannot wait to delve into the hedgerows and fields of the British countryside to reveal the secrets and folklore of this hidden little community of animals. The Brambly Hedge world captures the best and sweetest moments of childhood and revels in the pleasure to be found in friendships, families, and the natural world.”

Lizzie Barklem of the Brambly Hedge estate added: “We’re delighted to have teamed up with Lupus who have a fantastic track record of translating beautifully illustrated books on to the screen. 2020 is the 40th anniversary of Brambly Hedge so the timing is perfect for introducing the mice to a brand new generation.”