From the Award-winning creator of some of the most popular animated TV series of our time, including Babar, Little Bear, The Adventures of Tintin, Berenstain Bears, Franklin, The Magic School Bus, Beetlejuice, Rolie Polie Olie, Inspector Gadget, Johnny Test, Caillou, Arthur, Max & Ruby, Droids, Ewoks, Cyberchase and beyond (also an animated Star Wars short produced for George Lucas that introduced the Boba Fett character), Michael Hirsh has written a tell-all book Animation Nation: How We Built A Cartoon Empire, featuring untold stories of the making of some of the most cherished cartoons of all time.
Available on July 23, the book by the visionary co-founder and CEO of Nelvana (nelvana.com), takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the rise of one of the world’s most influential independent animation companies, in addition to his follow-up enterprises, including Cookie Jar Entertainment and WOW! Unlimited Media. Michael’s work left an indelible mark not only on the animation industry but also on children around the world. Through Michael’s vision and perseverance, he brought these characters off the page and into children’s living rooms where children could immerse themselves in the world of their beloved animated friends.
All in all, Michael Hirsh produced and created over 6,000 episodes of children’s TV programming. These programs ran on every children’s network and cable channel around the world — PBS, Cartoon Network, CBS, FOX, Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, to name just a few. He understood the secret ingredient needed to captivate children with entertaining shows that parents would wholeheartedly endorse and enjoy.
In his book, Hirsh provides readers with a unique glimpse into the creative process and entrepreneurial spirit that fueled Nelvana’s success and created an animation nation. Also included are anecdotes and insights from his collaborations with iconic personalities like George Lucas, Roseanne Barr, Mr. T., Debbie Harry and Tim Burton.
Animation Nation: How We Built A Cartoon Empire is not just a memoir; it’s a celebration of the power of creativity and perseverance. Packed with humor and hard-won wisdom, Hirsh’s narrative is a testament to how passion and entrepreneurial zeal can build a global empire from humble beginnings.
Pre- Order is now available for purchase on amazon