WUCF Announces New Series XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM, Premiering Fall 2019

WUCF announced the new animated series XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM, based on the children’s book series Ordinary People Change the World by New York Times best-selling author Brad Meltzer and illustrator Christopher Eliopoulos. This new multiplatform series, produced by 9 Story Media Group’s award-winning animation studio Brown Bag Films, will debut nationwide in fall 2019 on WUCF, the WUCF PBS KIDS 24/7 channel and PBS KIDS digital platforms. XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM will introduce kids ages 4-7 to inspiring historical figures – from Rosa Parks to Leonardo da Vinci – who will help them learn important social-emotional concepts.

“At WUCF, we believe that every child has unlimited potential,” said Dr. Phil Hoffman, WUCF Executive Director. “We’re thrilled to extend this mission with the debut of XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM. With Brad Meltzer’s vision, the series will reinforce the idea that anyone can accomplish amazing things. Introducing our young viewers in Central Florida to iconic figures that have done just that will help them realize that they too can change the world.”

The series follows the adventures of Xavier Riddle, his sister Yadina and their friend Brad. In each episode, they face a problem and turn to the Secret Museum, a hidden room under an ordinary museum, to help them solve it. The museum allows Xavier, Yadina and Brad to travel back in time to meet real-life historical figures when they were kids. They witness pivotal moments that shaped each of these iconic people and learn social-emotional lessons – such as being resilient in the face of adversity and making and accomplishing goals. Each episode is designed to help viewers make the connection between the attributes that made each historical figure a hero, and those same attributes within themselves, while approaching history in an engaging, age-appropriate manner.

“For me, XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM isn’t just a show – it’s my dream for my daughter and my sons,” said author Brad Meltzer. “My dream is for all of us to witness how the most ordinary person can become truly extraordinary through their actions. I want to show kids that there is potential in each of us. Every hero in the show was once a kid – smart, curious and full of adventure – just like them. They too can be heroes.”

Along with the television series, XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM will offer digital content for kids, parents and teachers, debuting in fall 2019. XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM games will be available at pbskids.org and on the free PBS KIDS Games App, along with clips and full episodes streaming across PBS KIDS’ video platforms, including the free PBS KIDS Video App. A XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM app will also launch after the series’ debut. WUCF will offer parent resources, including tips and hands-on activities to extend the learning at home, will be available on the PBS KIDS for Parents site, and PBS LearningMedia will offer classroom-ready materials for teachers, including video excerpts, games, teaching tips and printable activities.

“XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM is a truly special show that will inspire kids to believe they can change the world. I can’t think of a better way to empower the next generation,” said Vince Commisso, President & CEO of 9 Story. “Brad and Christopher’s bestselling book series Ordinary People Change the World inspires kids and parents alike, and we’re thrilled to bring their Xavier concept to new audiences on PBS KIDS and around the world via an animated series.”

Each episode of XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM will include two animated 11-minute stories with accompanying interstitial content. The series is currently in production of 37 half-hour episodes and a one-hour special.