There is a whole world of wonder waiting to be discovered around us. From the extraordinary animals that call our planet home to the many different cultures, landscapes and natural wonders that make Earth such a remarkable place, there is always something new to learn about the world we share.
And sometimes, all it takes is a story to help children begin exploring it.
Now, a beloved collection of children’s books from musician, photographer and author Julian Lennon is preparing to make its way into the world of animation, bringing its messages of environmental awareness, discovery and appreciation for the natural world to a new audience.
Love the Earth with Julian Lennon & Friends, an upcoming animated series inspired by the New York Times bestselling Touch the Earth children’s book trilogy written by Lennon and Bart Davis, is moving forward with a new international production partnership.
First announced during SXSW London, the project has now welcomed E-Factor Experiences as an executive producer alongside lead producer Compassionate Studios, bringing together partners from India and the United Kingdom to help develop the series.
And with the new collaboration comes another exciting development, as an episode centered around India is currently in the works.
The upcoming series will expand upon the themes introduced throughout the original books, inviting young audiences to explore nature, cultural diversity and the importance of caring for the planet through new characters and adventures.
At the heart of the project is Lennon’s longstanding commitment to environmental awareness, something that has also been reflected through his work with the White Feather Foundation. Through the new series, those same ideas will become part of an animated experience designed to encourage children to look a little closer at the world around them and the many lives that share it.
The series is created and written by British filmmaker Jean-Paul Mertinez, with Meena Khera serving as producer. Lennon is also taking an active role in the project as executive producer, co-writer and creator of original music for the show.
The voice cast will include Lakota actor Mo Brings Plenty, whose previous credits include Yellowstone.
And while audiences will have to wait a little longer to discover the full world of Love the Earth, the project has already offered an early introduction to some of its characters.
During the first-ever Experience Design Summit in Jaipur, attendees were treated to a special half-hour Love the Earth Experience, which included an early look at Lilly-Lou and the Strawberry Tiger from Assam.
With its combination of storytelling, music and environmental themes, Love the Earth with Julian Lennon & Friends is looking to introduce children to the beauty and diversity of our planet while encouraging curiosity, kindness and a greater understanding of the natural world.
An official premiere date and distribution platform have not yet been announced, but with development continuing and new international partners joining the project, another chapter in the Touch the Earth story is beginning to take shape.