Penguin Random House's Penguin Young Readers division is buying Eric Carle LLC, the entity that holds intellectual property rights for Eric Carle, the children's book author and illustrator whose more than 70 books have sold more than 145 million copies worldwide. The deal is expected to close January 1.
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Eric Carle |
Carle, who is 90, commented: "My son, Rolf, and I have decided to transition the management of my books to the most logical and appropriate place: Penguin Random House, my publisher of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. I know they will continue the work of the Eric Carle studio with creativity, integrity and care. I feel confident that entrusting Penguin Random House with my life's work is the right direction for me, and will benefit many future generations of readers for my books."
Penguin Random House U.S. CEO Madeline McIntosh said: "It is a thrill to welcome the Eric Carle studio to the Penguin Random House family. Eric's beautiful books have captivated generations of children, including those in my own home. We, at Penguin Random House, look forward to supporting and advancing his unique vision and works for generations to come."
Penguin Young Readers president Jen Loja added: "Eric Carle's iconic picture books have long been part of the fabric of Penguin Young Readers. Generations of readers, myself included, grew up with Eric's innovatively designed books. And his signature collage artwork and introductions to early concepts are as resonant today as they were 50 years ago... We are honored to continue their work to grow and expand this treasured preschool brand.”
Beginning in January, all business operations for what has previously been the Eric Carle studio will be overseen by Stephanie Sabol, v-p, business development, Penguin Young Readers.
For 25 years, the Eric Carle studio, headed by CEO Jack Fortier and creative director Motoko Inoue, has managed the business assets of Carle's work across books, merchandise, and entertainment and expanded Carle products to include live children's theater adaptions, bestselling interactive apps, direct-to-retail license and "good for you" food- and beverage-licensing. After a period of transition, Inoue will retire and Fortier will become president of the Eric and Barbara Carle Foundation. Mary Mekarnom, currently senior designer, will take on the role of creative director, reporting to Stephanie Sabol.
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Mass., will remain its own entity.