PRH lands Messi animated series as publishing partner
The fall 2027 U.S. launch list runs three titles: a rules guide, a sticker-activity book, and a coloring book
Penguin Random House has signed on as the worldwide book publishing partner for Messi and the Giants, a global animated series produced by Sony Pictures Television Kids and Sony Music Vision and licensed by Sony Pictures Consumer Products, set to launch in the U.S. in summer 2027 on Disney+ and the Disney Channel. The series centers on a 12-year-old named Leo, inspired by Lionel Messi, who must compete in soccer-like battles against giants; Messi is an executive producer.
Daniel Moreton, VP and publisher of Grosset & Dunlap, brands, and licenses, told Publishers Weekly that Messi's name recognition was the main draw and described the show as blending video game play with sports in what he called "a sort of soccer-meets-Quidditch" scenario. The books are aimed at kids six to 11. Penguin is working with Egmont U.K. to develop titles and formats, and the fall 2027 U.S. launch list includes three titles: an illustrated guide to the rules and characteristics of the world, a sticker-activity book, and a coloring book. Future formats under consideration include chapter books, picture books, and graphic novels.
Other initial licensees named alongside Penguin Random House include Hasbro for toys and games, Adidas for athletic footwear, apparel, and accessories, Rubie's for Halloween costumes and party goods, Centric Brands for apparel, accessories, and home goods, and Panini for stickers and collectibles.
Here's the deal for anyone working in kids' licensing: a soccer-meets-Quidditch fantasy fronted by Lionel Messi just landed Penguin Random House as its worldwide book publisher, years ahead of the Disney+ launch. That's a long runway. If you write or package children's tie-in content, this is the kind of property to watch for subsidiary slots once the illustrated guide, sticker book, and coloring book prove the format out. Daniel Moreton at Grosset & Dunlap called the show's mix of fantasy and sports "a really interesting" fit for kids six to 11 — worth noting exactly that age range if you're pitching adjacent work.
From the Coral Wire edition of Sat, Oct 24 2026 · Coral Index 43/100 (Headwinds)