Dynowish to become animated series

Paola Myriam Visconti, author of Giunti Editore’s best-selling children’s book series Dynowish, is partnering with UAE-based producer and distributor TwelveP Animation and award-winning content creator Josh Selig to develop Dynowish into a new animated television series for kids 8-12. The IP will be presented at the upcoming MIP Jr. and MIPCOM markets. 

Paola Myriam Visconti’s Dynowish books, from renowned Florentine publishing house Giunti Editore, in both English and Italian, have already achieved great success in Italy and the Middle East. The Dynowish series includes Dynowish and the True Story of the Abandoned Dreams, the prequel to the nine-book saga Dynowish: The Protector of Dreams, whose first volume is Tears of the Moon. The next title, The Moon Flower, is forthcoming. In total, nine books in the series are planned. Paola has also published the spin-off Dynowish: Mission Clean Planet, a story that emphasizes the importance of dreams that uplift others and protect the planet.

Paola and her husband are co-founders of the Dynowish Foundation, whose mission is to support children worldwide, particularly the less fortunate, in pursuing their dreams.

TwelveP, based out of Abu Dhabi and known for its record of successfully managing children’s IP, was the first partner to invest in the development of Dynowish as an animated series. TwelveP’s expertise lies in applying a 360-degree approach to managing kids’ entertainment and a strong international distribution network, which currently covers 80 countries around the world.

Josh Selig, creator of the Emmy Award-winning The Wonder Pets! and Small Potatoes, is working with Visconti to draft the bible for Dynowish and is overseeing the series’ creative direction. Selig is also the founder of China Bridge Content, a company that helps international companies get a foothold in mainland China, and helps Chinese companies expand their reach into the global market. His most recent creation, The Dog & Pony Show launched in the US on Peacock in September 2024.

Renowned scriptwriter, comic book creator, story editor and producer Francesco Artibani is writing the pilot for the series. Artibani has held positions with the Walt Disney Company Italia and has worked on such projects as Winx Club and World of Winx, W.I.T.C.H, Monsters & Pirates and Pop Pixie. He has also produced miniseries for Panini/Marvel, including X-Campus and has edited Italian editions of comics including Bone, Elfquest, and Simpsons. He is co-creator of the Monster Allergy comic book series.

The design for the new series is led by Luigi Aimè, known for his work with Disney and Pixar.

The central characters in Dynowish are Ginny and Leo, two siblings who face off against Azimur, the evil wizard who seeks to use the energy of dreams to increase his power and turn those dreams into nightmares. Only Dynowish, the legendary protector of dreams, together with Ginny and Leo, can stop Azimur and restore hope to the dream world. At the heart of the Dynowish saga is the reminder of the importance of dreams and the need to protect them.

“Dynowish is the story of dreams lost, abandoned and found again,” said Visconti. “This comes from deep within my heart – it has always been my wish to inspire children to hold onto their dreams and keep their faith. I’ve been so humbled by how this fable of hope, joy and perseverance has touched so many children – and adults. Now we are able to bring this powerful message to a worldwide audience. I could not be more excited to be undertaking this next chapter in the Dynowish journey.”

In addition to the new animated series, TwelveP’s blueprint for the Dynowish franchise includes multiple platforms and touchpoints, including toys and consumer products, theatrical content and educational, immersive gaming that will allow children to explore the world of Dynowish through interactive adventures. 

“Supported by a solid creative foundation, a proven monetization strategy and an amazing multinational team of top-tier talent, Dynowish features universal themes that easily resonate across all cultures,” commented Katerina Pshenitsyna, Managing Partner, TwelveP Animation. “Most importantly, we see Dynowish developing into a successful franchise.”

“Dynowish is an ambitious and visionary project that blends literature, art, and entertainment to inspire and encourage children all over the world,” added Selig. “It is an honor and privilege to work with Paola, Luigi and the entire team to bring this wonderful adventure to life on the screen.”