Disney+ picks up rights to new young adult novel from “Descendants” author Melissa de la Cruz

in Disney, Movies & TV

29 dates

According to Deadline, Disney has just won a bidding war for “29 Dates,” a new young adult novel by “Descendants” author Melissa de la Cruz. The project will be fast-tracked for Disney+, the company’s upcoming streaming service.

Released this month, “29 Dates” tells the story of Ji-su Kim, a 16-year-old Korean exchange student who moves to the United States. She struggles under pressure from her parents, who want her to succeed both academically and romantically and set her up on seon (matchmaker) dates to meet appropriate suitors. The book has been praised as a heartwarming, modern romantic comedy.

29 dates

De la Cruz already has a relationship with Disney, having written three novels based on the “Descendants” franchise: “The Isle of the Lost: A Descendants Novel” (2015), “Return to the Isle of the Lost: A Descendants Novel” (2016), and “Rise of the Isle of the Lost: A Descendants Novel” (2017). “The Isle of the Lost,” a prequel novel for the Disney Channel Original Movie, spent over 14 weeks as a Children’s Middle Grade New York Times Bestseller. She has also written several book series, including “Au Pair” and “Blue Bloods,” as well as several stand-alone novels.

Melissa de la Cruz/Credit: melissa-delcruz.com

29 Dates” will be produced by The Gotham Group, which also recently produced a film version of “Stargirl” for Disney+, based on the novel by Jerry Spinelli. The “Stargirl” movie was written by Kristin Hahn, directed by Julia Hart, and stars Grace VanderWaal in the title role.

In addition to content adapted from young adult novels, Disney+ is currently stocking its streaming library with a live-action “Lady and the Tramp,” the “High School Musical: The Musical” TV series, and shows based on “Star Wars” characters, including “The Mandalorian.” Starting with “Captain Marvel” in March 2019, all of Disney’s theatrical releases will find a streaming home on Disney+.

Pricing information for Disney+ hasn’t been revealed yet, but the service is expected to launch in late 2019.

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