A hidden treasure adventure will mark 9 Story Entertainment’s first foray into direct-to-video production, as the Toronto-based company secured rights to Nova Scotia author Joan Clark’s novel The Hand of Robin Squires.

The project is in the early stages of development with children’s industry veteran Peter Moss (Caillou, Arthur) currently writing the treatment. Squires follows a 14-year-old boy’s quest to find a centuries-old hidden treasure on Nova Scotia’s Oak Island.

‘Ms. Clark’s wonderfully crafted delivery of this mystical pirate tale makes it an ideal story to bring to life as an animated feature length film for children and family audiences. We look forward to bringing this spirited story to the screen,’ commented 9 Story president Vince Commisso in a release.

A production start date is yet to be determined.