Blue's Clues Creator Expands YouTube Hit into Book Series

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Emmy Award-winning children's media pioneer Angela C. Santomero, creator of Blue's Clues, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, and Super Why!, is bringing her popular YouTube Kids property Princess Penelope's Purse of Preposterous Things to print. In partnership with publisher 4U2B Books & Media, Santomero will launch a new early-reader series based on the hit digitally animated series, with the debut featuring two titles - the eponymous lead book and Dragon's Marshmallow Mess - releasing on April 21, 2026.

Why it matters

The new book series expands Santomero's signature 'pause-and-play' storytelling approach, which aims to help preschoolers practice problem-solving, emotional regulation, and cooperative thinking through interactive read-aloud adventures featuring the character of Princess Penelope. The brand is actively expanding with further broadcast and streaming distribution currently in development.

The details

The series follows Princess Penelope as she uses imagination and kindness to help her friends navigate unexpected challenges. The narrative mirrors Santomero's 'pause-and-play' storytelling, inviting children to predict outcomes and think through choices. While the animated series currently streams on YouTube Kids, the brand is actively expanding with further broadcast and streaming distribution currently in development and with new book releases scheduled for fall 2026.

• The debut titles will be available on April 21, 2026.
• New book releases are scheduled for fall 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The brand is actively expanding with further broadcast and streaming distribution currently in development, and new book releases are scheduled for fall 2026.