Moth Studio Developing Animated Adaptation Of Million-Selling Kids’ Book ‘The Storm Whale’

Benji Davies’ beloved picture book The Storm Whale is headed to the small screen.

BAFTA-nominated Moth Studio has announced that it is developing a 30-minute animated TV special based on Davies’ award-winning children’s story. The project will make its public debut at Annecy next week, where Moth will present the adaptation to potential partners.

First published by Simon & Schuster in 2013, The Storm Whale has sold more than one million copies in 41 languages and territories. The story follows Noi, a lonely boy living on a remote island with his father, whose life changes when a young whale washes ashore after a storm. The book won the inaugural Oscar’s Book Prize and inspired three follow-up titles.

In a release, Davies said:

Working with Moth Studio to bring Noi and The Storm Whale to life has been an absolute joy. Their deft treatment of the source material very much reflects the spirit of the book, and I couldn’t love what they have done more. Since The Storm Whale was first published thirteen years ago, I have seen its fanbase steadily grow around the world, and I believe that our animated film adaptation is now willing itself to be made. Under Moth’s masterful eye and hunger for the medium, and with trusted co-producers on board, I believe we have the perfect opportunity to bring this adaptation into production.

Moth Studio founders David Prosser, Daniel Chester, and Marie-Margaux Tsakiri-Scanatovits added:

We always knew there was something special about The Storm Whale. This 30-minute adaptation allows us to explore the emotional depth and visual poetry of Benji’s work. Collaborating with Benji means we can bring his distinctive artistic vision to the screen in a way that we know will resonate with families everywhere.

Moth Studio and literary agency The Bright Agency are currently seeking broadcasters, distributors, and financing partners for the project.