Toronto’s Epic Story Media is teaming up with TVOKids to bring Burt the Beetle from the pages of children’s literature to screens across the country. This new 2D-animated preschool series promises to deliver engaging, humorous, and thought-provoking stories for young audiences, all through the lens of this kind-hearted insect.
Burt the Beetle is based on the beloved books written by Canadian author Ashley Spires, released by Kids Can Press. The series is still being developed, with creative talents such as Spires, TV writers Hugh Duffy and Carolyn Hay, all playing pivotal roles as executive producers. While the exact format for the show is not finalized, discussions indicate plans for 52 episodes, each lasting seven minutes.
The original Burt the Beetle stories, published in 2021 and 2023, chronicle the experiences of this June beetle who is on a quest to understand what makes him special. From his energetic search for the perfect house to fit his unique size and sticky legs, Burt’s adventures encapsulate themes of self-acceptance and the joys of discovering one’s identity. The series is set to expand with another book anticipated for release by Kids Can Press in 2026, which could lead to even more animated stories.
Kirsten Hurd, the commissioning editor for TVOKids, spoke about the vibrant graphic style of the Burt books, stating, "The [Burt the Beetle] books’ distinctive graphic style is sure to captivate audiences and translate beautifully to the screen." Her enthusiasm reflects broader expectations for children’s media to not only entertain but also educate and stimulate curiosity about the world around them, particularly the fascinating world of insects.
This project highlights Epic Story Media’s dedication to developing quality children’s content. The production company has made significant strides within the kidlit-to-animation pipeline and has worked on multiple successful franchises, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing creative ideas for young viewers.
Both TVOKids and Epic Story Media aim to create not just another animated series but to cultivate engaging content deeply rooted in relatable narratives. By incorporating playful, imaginative storytelling, the creators envision the series as one where children can learn more about nature and the importance of self-acceptance through Burt’s delightful adventures.
With the growth of streaming services and networks focusing on children’s programming, the need for high-quality preschool content is rapidly increasing. The incorporation of themes like empathy, identity, and curiosity aligns with current trends, making Burt the Beetle timely for upcoming preschool audiences.
The production of Burt the Beetle is just one element of efforts by content creators to adapt literature for visual media. Ashley Spires is no stranger to this dynamic; she has successfully navigated her works from printed stories to animated series before. Her previous adaptations include Binky the Space Cat, which was transformed appropriately for viewers as Agent Binky: Pets of the Universe, along with her book The Most Magnificent becoming Millie Magnificent.
Through these adaptations, there is a clear recognition of the power of animated storytelling — it allows young children to connect with characters and lessons visually and emotionally. Burt’s charming story arc, punctuated by comedic situations and educational moments, is likely to resonate with preschoolers, effectively fostering their love of nature and self-discovery.
While the road to development can often be fraught with challenges, including budget constraints and shifting viewer preferences, the earnest commitment of creators like Spires, Duffy, and Hay offers hope as they work to carve out engaging narratives for children. Their combined experience promises to bring Burt’s world to life with authenticity and fun.
Fans of the Burt the Beetle books can look forward to seeing how this transition enriches the beloved character and may even inspire new stories inspired by the animated series. Parents and educators alike can expect content to facilitate conversations about uniqueness and the importance of embracing one’s individuality.
With the series set to explore these themes through delightful storytelling, viewers can mark their calendars for Burt the Beetle’s animated debut on TVOKids, as it prepares to invite children to join Burt on his bug-tastic adventures shortly. The anticipation builds as audiences await this charming show, looks to hit screens and bring joy, laughter, and learning to young viewers everywhere.