Kids studio Coolabi and Walker Productions, the production arm of book publisher Walker Books, have entered into a major new co-development deal for Walker Books” comedy book series Scream Street. The partners have jointly secured the TV, gaming and licensing rights from author Tommy Donbavand and will develop the books as an animated TV series for 7-10 year olds.

The books are about a boy who doubles up as a reluctant werewolf. When the Government Housing of Unusual Lifeforms (G.H.O.U.L.) gets wind of his secret, they transfer him and his parents to Scream Street – where surfer-dude goblins, laid-back zombies, ghosts, vampires and witches give a new meaning to community spirit.

The Scream Street books have developed a growing fanbase since the launch of the first title in 2008. Ten books have already been published and so far sold into China, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Portugal, Russia and Sweden. The series begins development in 2011 with production slated to start during 2012.

Helen McAleer, MD of Walker Productions, says: “Tommy Donbavand”s books have attracted a loyal following of fans, and we”re very excited to work with Coolabi on creating the TV series.” Michael Dee, Director of Content at Coolabi, added: “Scream Street is a truly individual series that we know will translate into fantastic TV.”

Walker Productions develops Walker Books content for other media platforms. Current projects including Tilly and Friends for BBC and Fleabag Monkeyface for ITV.