Kinsane acquires film, TV and game rights for "Wedgie and Gizmo"

Kinsane Entertainment Inc., a worldwide cross-platform media company for children and families owned by Rainshine Entertainment, announces acquisition of rights to book adaptation Wedgie and Gizmo by successful author Suzanne Selfors. Kinsane will develop the franchise from book to animated series, with mobile games, consumer products and more for its worldwide distribution.

Published by HarperCollins Wedgie and Gizmo debuted in 2017 with critical and commercial success, the story of a mixed family, told by the alternating and singularly distinctive voices of the family pets: a deluded evil genius guinea pig named Gizmo and his lighthearted rival, an equally deluded Welsh Corgi called Wedgie.

The book series begins when Elliot, his father and Gizmo move into their new home, already occupied by Jasmine, Jackson, their mom and their mysterious grandmother and, of course, the sweet but annoying dog Wedgie. The hilarious and constantly failed plans of the evil genius of Gizmo, who plots a hamster revolt, have a change when the rodent becomes convinced that Wedgie is his super enemy determined to thwart his ambitions. As pets wreak havoc within the home and beyond, the books skillfully explore the dynamics within a newly merged multiracial family during their process of becoming a family.

Shortly after publication, Wedgie and Gizmo received the Amazon Best Book of the Month award, a Cybils Award from children's and young adult book bloggers, a nomination for the prestigious Japanese Sakura Medal, finalist status for an Audible Audie Award, and approximately 15 additional honors.

Kinsane Entertainment, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Rainshine Entertainment, the world's award-winning multi-studio entertainment mix, was co-founded by Kurt Inderbitzin, Indrani Pillai and Saahil Bhargava. Writer / producer Donna Ebbs will lead the creative development Wedgie and Gizmo for multiple platforms.

“We are so excited to welcome you Wedgie and Gizmo to the family. You rarely get a piece of material and everyone who reads it - and I mean everyone - can't wait for the next installment, ”commented Kurt Inderbitzin, co-founder and CEO of Kinsane Entertainment. “When I read it, I found myself laughing out loud, but it was incredibly touching at the same time. This is the magic of Suzanne's writing and what we will amplify in the series and in every part of this amazing brand. "

Annabell Saks, director of media at HarperCollins, added: “Wedgie and Gizmo has definitely found a great home at Kinsane Entertainment. We can't wait to see this beloved series come to life on multiple platforms under their trusted leadership. ”

"These fur babies have all grown up!" said proud parent and author of Pet Selfors. "Kinsane Entertainment will give them the opportunity to fly to new heights in animation, video games, toys and beyond."