Zonderkidz Partners With Creators of VeggieTales

Posted on September 21, 2001

Zonderkidz, the children's group of Zondervan, has reached an agreement with Big Idea Productions to be the publishing partner of the family entertainment company's three current properties: the VeggieTales series, the newly launched 3-2-1 Penguins series and the upcoming feature film release Jonah -- A VeggieTales Movie.

``We had contact with over a dozen publishers and ultimately chose Zonderkidz because of our shared missions and core values,'' said Phil Vischer, CEO and Chief Creative Officer, Big Idea Productions. ``Both companies are committed to personal and corporate integrity as well as creative excellence and design innovation. We are thrilled to have our innovative storytelling and wacky sense of humor come to life through books produced by Zonderkidz.''

The companies plan to release their first collaborations in the summer of 2002, beginning with the products to support the full-length theatrical release of Jonah -- A VeggieTales Movie. The film tells the Bible story of Jonah with VeggieTales' wacky sense of humor.

``We're approaching this partnership as a defining moment for both companies,'' said Bruce Ryskamp, President and CEO for Zondervan. ``With our combined strengths, we plan to develop products that parents can use to make a significant impact on the spiritual and developmental growth of their children.''

Zonderkidz, the children's publishing group of Zondervan, is responsible for the creation, marketing and sales of books, Bibles, gifts and new media products for children ages 12 and under. Big Idea Productions is a family media company that produces children's videos and albums.