Red Planet Pictures options Emergency Zoo

Red Planet Pictures has acquired TV rights to Miriam Halahmy's children's novel The Emergency Zoo (Alma Books, 2016).

The deal was brokered between Emily Hayward Whitlock at The Artists Partnership on behalf of Anne Clark Literary Agency, and Red Planet Pictures’ joint m.d., Alex Jones.

The Emergency Zoo is a "stirring tale of courage and friendship in desperate times." The synopsis reads: "With Britain on the brink of World War II, Tilly and Rosy are horrified to discover that their beloved cat and dog will be killed, along with tens of thousands of other animals in London. Outraged by the news, the friends decide to hide their pets in a derelict hut in nearby woods. When other children start bringing along their rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters, their secret den turns into an emergency zoo. But the children will soon be evacuated: what will happen to the animals then?"

Kate Rowland, Red Planet Pictures’ creative consultant, said: "The story of the WWII British pet cull—and the effect it had on children— is one of the most compelling tales never told. With the support of the BFI Young Audiences Content Fund (YACF) and the talents of script writers Vicky Donoghue and Natalie Mitchell we are excited to be developing Miriam’s book into a gripping children’s drama, reminding ourselves of the incredible resilience and creative spirit of young people in times of crisis. It couldn’t be more relevant."

Halahmy commented: "I am absolutely delighted that The Emergency Zoo has been optioned for the screen. This is a story that was waiting to be told and a story very close to my heart—children and animals surviving the grownups’ war. Red Planet Pictures has shown such immense enthusiasm for my book and their vision is completely inspired. I can’t wait for viewers to see Tilly and Rosy leading the way."