UK-based kids series artist and author Curtis Jobling, has signed a deal with Penguin imprint Puffin for two books in a new series of young adult fantasy novels entitled Wereworld.

Puffin has secured world rights from the John Jarrold Literary Agency for the series, which are due for publication in 2011 and 2012.

Wereworld follows the story of fifteen-year-old Drew, a shepherd’s son, as he comes of age and discovers he’s the last of the long line of Werewolves, and rightful, yet reluctant, ruler of the land of Lyssia, where lycanthrope Werelords reign. Before long he’s hurtling headlong into an epic journey of fantasy and horror, from one deadly encounter to the next, meeting exotic Werelords at every turn as he’s drawn inexorably towards his destiny.

Puffin’s Shannon Park says werewolves are hot property right now, and this series has huge appeal for the 10-plus fantasy market.

Curtis Jobling designed BAFTA-winning Bob the Builder and is also the creator of Frankenstein’s Cat. In addition he has numerous shows in development with Disney, the BBC and others.