Following the successful reintroduction of The Raccoons to a new generation of readers, Run With Us Productions and UK independent publisher Candy Jar Books are expanding the beloved brand into audio with the launch of a new Imagination+ Audiobooks line at the 2026 Bologna Children’s Book Fair.
Candy Jar has been working directly with series creator Kevin Gillis to develop an illustrated chapter book range based on the classic Canadian animated property. The books reintroduce characters including Bert Raccoon and Cyril Sneer to younger readers, while retaining the humour, adventure, and environmental themes that made the original series a global success.
The chapter books are designed for shared reading, with short, accessible chapters intended to be read across the week, encouraging parents who grew up with the series to read alongside their children. Each title also incorporates QR codes linking to animated music videos from the original series, carefully tied to key moments in the story to extend the reading experience beyond the page.
The new Imagination+ Audiobooks line will offer a further format for the stories, aimed at broadening access and giving families another way to engage with the Evergreen Forest.
Candy Jar’s head of publishing Shaun Russell says: “We’re creating a fully produced cinematic audiobook based on The Raccoons stories with fun, lighthearted narration, character voices, music, and rich sound effects designed to feel like a movie for your ears.”
Originally broadcast in more than 180 countries, The Raccoons has seen renewed activity in recent months, including restored home entertainment releases and expanded international distribution. The series is now also available on DVD and Blu-ray in the German language, contributing to a wider resurgence for the brand.
Kevin Gillis says: “It’s incredible to see the magic of the Evergreen Forest alive and well forty-five years later. It’s wonderful that a whole new generation can experience the humour, heart, and spirit of these characters.”
ITVX and BritBox UK, along with Bell Media’s CRAVE TV in Canada, have recently renewed the series and specials, while Pluto TV UK has licensed the series for streaming. The restored and remastered episodes are also being picked up by broadcasters and platforms in more than 40 countries, including Roku in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
Shaun Russell adds: “We’ve seen strong interest in the books from both parents and younger readers. Audio felt like a natural next step, particularly as families look for flexible ways to enjoy stories together.”
Kevin Gillis and Shaun Russell will attend the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, where they will present the audiobooks alongside Candy Jar’s existing publishing list and meet with international partners. They welcome meetings at the TV and Film Rights Centre (Hall 29, Mall 2).
Candy Jar is currently seeking additional publishing and licensing opportunities as it continues to expand its Raccoons programme.
