Penguin Random House to Acquire Complete Works of Eric Carle

Penguin Young Readers has announced a deal to acquire the rights for Eric Carle’s children’s books and licensing business.

The deal sees the Penguin Random House subsidiary take control of Carle’s library of more than 70 published children’s books and long-running licensing rights. Book properties exchanged as part of the deal include The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Mr. Seahorse and Dream Snow.

“We are proud that Penguin Random House, a publisher so integral to Eric's success, will now carry on this legacy,” says Jack Fortier, chief executive officer, The Eric Carle Corporation. “Penguin Random House brings to the brand tremendous integrity, respect and resources, leaving us with no doubt that they are the right new owners for ‘The World of Eric Carle.’”

The deal also includes the business assets of Eric Carle Studio across books, merchandise and entertainment. Beginning next year, all domestic and foreign business operations for the studio will be overseen by Stephanie Sabol, vice president, business development, Penguin Young Readers.

“It is a thrill to welcome the Eric Carle studio to the Penguin Random House family,” says Madeline McIntosh, chief executive officer, Penguin Random House, U.S. “Eric’s beautiful books have captivated generations of children, including those in my own home. We at Penguin Random House look forward to supporting and advancing his unique vision and works for generations to come.”

Penguin will continue to work with The Joester Loria Group, the licensing agent for the Eric Carle brand since 2011. Recent licensing successes for the JLG and the Eric Carle brand include a bedding deal with Jay Franco and a clothing line with Little Goodall.

“It has been our great honor to work with Eric Carle and the Eric Carle studio in establishing the global success of his award-winning brand, The World of Eric Carle,” says Debra Joester, president, JLG. “Over the past 7 years, we have developed a close relationship with Penguin Random House, and we are excited to work with Penguin to further Eric Carle’s legacy and bring his works off the pages and onto quality product and memorable experiences.”