DUBLIN – June 5, 2023 – 9 Story Distribution is pleased to announce that it has secured a number of sales for its powerful live-action series A Kind of Spark, based on the award-winning book by neurodivergent author Elle McNicoll. The series premiered on BBC (UK), BYUtv (US) and CBC (Canada) in April during World Autism Month. A Kind of Spark is the first project to be put into production from 9 Story’s first-look deal with award-winning publishing company Knights Of, which focuses on improving inclusivity in children’s books, both on the shelf and behind the scenes.
New broadcasters on board for the series include RTÉ (Ireland), NRK (Norway), YLE (Finland), SVT (Sweden), TVNZ (New Zealand) and TFO (French Speaking Canada). ABC Australia, France Télévisions and CBC (Canada) pre-bought A Kind of Spark last year.
A Kind of Spark is created for television by Anna McCleery (Free Rein, Secret Life of Boys) and produced by 9 Story Media Group in association with LS Productions for BBC and BYUtv. Lead writers are Anna McCleery and Elle McNicoll (A Kind of Spark, Show Us Who You Are) with Karissa Hamilton-Bannis and Vicki Lutas. It is executive produced for 9 Story by Gráinne McNamara (Malory Towers)
Touted as “revolutionizing onscreen autism” by The Guardian and “groundbreaking in its portrayal of autistic women” by Digital Spy, A Kind of Spark is a heart-warming story about friendship, courage and self-belief. Aimed at children 8-12, it tells the inspirational story of teenager Addie, a neurodivergent girl. When she learns about the witch trials that happened centuries ago in her hometown, Addie knows that there’s more to the story of these ‘witches’, just as there is more to her own. Can Addie challenge how people see her and her autism and make her voice heard?
About 9 Story Distribution International
9 Story Distribution International is the international distribution arm of 9 Story Media Group, a leading content creator, producer, and distributor of kids & family-focused intellectual property. Recognized around the world for best-in-class brands such as Daniel Tiger’s Neighbourhood, Wild Kratts, Barney and Garfield and Friends, 9 Story Distribution International represents over 4,400 half hours of animated and live-action programming, seen on some of the most respected international channels and platforms. With facilities in Toronto, New York, Dublin, and Bali, 9 Story Media Group employs over 1,000 creative and corporate staff. www.9story.com