Kids publishing giant Scholastic is moving beyond books to launch multiplatform adventure series The 39 Clues next September in the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

Combining reading with online gaming, The 39 Clues will include 10 books to be released over a two-year period, 350 collectible cards and an online game where readers uncover information beyond what is revealed in the books and cards.

The whole enchilada of rights for the new franchise is owned by Scholastic and a full licensing program is expected to roll out in conjunction with the various releases.

The first book in the series The Maze of Bones is being penned by New York Times best-selling author Rick Riordan, who also outlined the program’s 10-book story arc. The initial title and the official game will be released by September 9, 2008.

The franchise centers on the fictional family dynasty of the Cahills, a clan whose source of power will be revealed once the 39 clues hidden throughout history are unravelled.