‘Iyanu: Child of Wonder,’ the 2017 novel created by Roye Okupe and illustrated by Godwin Akpan has been given an HBO Max, Cartoon Network, and Lion Forge 2D adaptation green light.
This information was announced with a post on the official Instagram page of Cartoon Network where the content giant gave an insight into what the Nigerian series will be all about.
‘Iyanu: Child Of Wonder’ will follow the story of the teenage heroine, Iyanu who must uncover the mystery behind her divine powers to save the world on the brink of destruction.
One day, she unintentionally unlocks her powers in response to a threat. Iyanu teams up with two other teenagers as they set out on a quest to learn the truth about the evil hiding all around them using her newly discovered powers.
The story is set in an ancient Yoruba kingdom and is influenced by the rich culture, music, and mythology of the Yoruba people of Nigeria.
According to Variety, Okupe will write and direct several episodes in addition to creating the show and serving as a co-executive producer. The supervising director will be Lion Forge’s head of productions, Saxton Moore.
While talking about the announcement, Roye Okupe expressed excitement in reaching a global audience with this new opportunity.
“When I set out to create ‘Iyanu’ for a global audience, I wanted to develop a world that combined everything I love about the fantasy genre with the majesty and awe that is ancient West Africa.
“On top of that, working with Godwin Akpan, who illustrated the books, as our art director and collaborating with a thoughtful studio like Lion Forge Animation that prioritizes authenticity and diversity, is beyond belief.”
The writer’s room will be overseen by Brandon Easton, and other executive producers include Doug Schwalbe, Carl Reed, Lion Forge’s David Steward II and Matt Heath, Impact X Capital’s Erica Dupuis, and Forefront Media Group’s Ryan Haidarian.