By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
Phoenix International Publications (PIP) has partnered with Hidden Pigeon Company (HPC) for a novelty book collection based on licensed characters from author Mo Willems.
“We have long admired Mo Willems and the curious, fun-loving characters he has created,” said PIP chief licensing officer, John Russell. “These beloved characters have often been an entry point for readers to associate reading with play, which we hope to continue and expand on with our interactive books.”
Based on brands like The Pigeon and Elephant & Piggie, the upcoming collection will include five titles that incorporate interactive elements such as sounds, activities, songs and more.
“We’re so excited to offer kids new ways to interact with The Pigeon and friends by adding sounds and hands-on elements to the stories,” said PIP chief publishing officer, Susie Brooke.
Scheduled to launch during the second half of 2026, the first title to hit the retail market will be a Christmas-inspired Little Music Note Songbook featuring The Pigeon character IP.
This first book will be followed by four additional titles including a Steering Wheel Sound book, an I’m Ready to Read Sound book, a Squish & Peek novelty board book and a Little Sound book.
These four titles are set to be released throughout 2027.
“We’re excited to be working with PIP to bring new book formats to young readers and their families and nurture a love of reading through the hilarious adventures of Mo’s celebrated characters,” said
Hidden Pigeon SVP, Tori Cook. “The upcoming titles from PI Kids are sure to engage kids and former kids alike in fresh new ways and help them make lasting memories together.”
The partnership with Phoenix International Publications was brokered by the founder of Screenland Literary Associates, Paula Allen, as a publishing consultant to the Hidden Pigeon Company.
HPC is an entertainment company that focuses on expanding Mo Willems’ entertainment brands to reach new media platforms and population demographics.
Willem’s portfolio of family-friendly IP includes a wide range of characters and stories such as The Pigeon, Unlimited Squirrels, Elephant & Piggie, Knuffle Bunny, Cat the Cat and more.
The company was founded in 2023 as a joint venture by Willems, Stampede Ventures and RedBird Capital Partners.
Phoenix International Publications is a publishing company that specializes in creating and distributing children’s sound and novelty books through its PI Kids imprint.
Through its licensing partnerships, the company combines character brands with illustrations, activities, sounds, songs and tech to develop an interactive reading experience.
This new partnership with HPC will expand PIP’s existing catalog of licensed children’s books, which also includes content from brands like Disney, Bluey, Baby Einstein, Paw Patrol, Sesame Street, World of Eric Carle and more.
Image Credit: HPC Character Logo.