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BBC and 9 Story Media Group bring A Kind of Spark to UK screens
Elle McNicoll's A Kind of Spark (Knights Of) will be brought to UK screens in a live action series, following a partnership with BBC Children's and 9 Story Media.
Based on the book by award-winning children’s author (pictured, top) , the series will tell the story of 11-year-old Addie, a neurodivergent girl. When she learns about the witch trials that happened centuries ago in her hometown, Addie knows that there’s more to the story of these "witches", just as there is more to her own. Can Addie challenge how the people in her town see her and her autism and make her voice heard?
Winner of the Blue Peter Book Award and the overall Waterstones Children’s Book Prize, A Kind of Spark interweaves the past and present, and will feature across eight episodes full of "magic, mystery and friendship", with a strong message of inclusion.
Sarah Muller, BBC head of commissioning and acquisitions for the seven to 12 age group, said: “We’re delighted to bring this moving and powerful story to audiences in the UK. In Addie we have a character who is relatable, uplifting and inspiring and we can’t wait to bring her story to life. Our aim is to reflect all of our audience on screen and this story of difference and acceptance is one that we can’t wait to tell.”
A Kind of Spark will be created for television by Anna McCleery ("Free Rein", "The Secret Life of Boys"), written by Anna McCleery and Elle McNicoll and produced by 9 Story Media Group. The series is the first announced since 9 Story acquired a minority equity stake in Knights Of.
“We are thrilled to partner with BBC Children’s to bring this incredibly special story to the screen,” said Gráinne McNamara, vice-president of live action for 9 Story. “Just like the countless kids who have fallen in love with the book, we were instantly captivated and inspired by Addie's way of looking at the world. Representation is crucial in kids' television and we are excited to bring A Kind of Spark to new audiences in the UK.”
