'We’re going on a Bear Hunt' to be brought to life in a TV animation

The 30-minute animation is being produced by the makers of The Snowman and The Snowdog, Lupus Films, along with the publisher of the book, Walker Productions. It will air on Channel 4 next year.

The TV special will incorporate both the story and artwork of the original book, which last year celebrated 25 years as an international bestseller.

Written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxbury, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, tells the story of Stan, Katie, Rosie, Max, a baby and Rufus the dog, who are left home alone one day before Christmas as their parents go to the rescue of grandma. Spurred on by Katie’s love of grizzly bears, the children decide it would be fun to go on a bear hunt.

Commenting on the news that the picture book is to be turned into a TV special, children’s novelist and poet Michael Rosen said, ‘I am absolutely delighted that Channel 4 has commissioned this animation. Lupus has a great record in this field and I am very excited to be part of the project. Helen Oxenbury's wonderful art work provides a powerful family saga, full of imagined or real trials and these pictures will give a basis for a moving Christmas drama.’

Illustrator Helen Oxenbury said, ‘I'm so looking forward to seeing the book brought to life in this way. It's a wonderful opportunity to bring We're Going on a Bear Hunt to even more children and I'm thrilled to be part of it.’

Producer Ruth Fielding said, ‘We’re delighted that Channel 4 have commissioned us to re-tell this classic story and bring to life its beautiful illustrations with our hand drawn animation style. We hope audiences will enjoy the film for many years to come.’