Italian animation studio and licensor Rainbow has a signed a book deal with Italy-based publishing house Mondadori Libri for a range of titles based on its first fully live-action series, Maggie & Bianca Fashion Friends. (The show’s original working title was My American Friend.)
Under the deal, Mondadori Libri will develop secret diaries of both Maggie and Bianca, as well as novels and activity books. The titles will hit bookstore shelves this back-to-school season, coinciding with the show’s debut this fall.
Maggie & Bianca Fashion Friends tells the story of ordinary American girl Maggie, who dreams of becoming the world’s top fashion designer. On her 16th birthday, she becomes the youngest contestant to win a two-year scholarship to the Milan Fashion Academy, where she meets self-proclaimed Italian princess Bianca. Together, they makes friends with students who all share a love for both fashion and music.
The publishing agreement follows a master toy deal announced in January with German toy manufacturer Simba Dickie Group, which will make toys inspired by fashion, music and role-play for the European market.
The series began shooting last September, a month before Rainbow acquired Vancouver, Canada-based animation studio Bardel Entertainment.