This fall, Troy-based Emagine Entertainment and Folktellers Studios in Royal Oak are inviting young readers to bring the latter’s award-winning seven-book series “Excerpts from an Unknown Guidebook” to the silver screen.
The program asks students to dive into author Josef Bastian’s universe of adventure and mystery then create their own three-minute movie trailers inspired by the series’ characters, worlds, and themes.
“At Emagine, we believe that learning and entertainment go hand in hand, both have the power to inspire, educate, and unite communities,” says Paul Glantz, co-founder and chairman of Emagine Entertainment.
“This program embodies our commitment to community stewardship by giving young people a creative platform to learn, dream, and share their voices through the magic of cinema. We’re proud to help nurture the next generation of storytellers and leaders.”
Working with regional literacy programs, Emagine and Folktellers Studios will distribute program kits in February 2026 and connect with classrooms and community groups across the region to make the program accessible to as many young storytellers as possible.
“We are so excited to launch this program with Emagine, as it represents the storytelling bridge between reading, literacy, and entertainment,” Bastian says. “This will be an experience that brings the entire community together to celebrate the joy of reading and making movies.”
The program will culminate with a film contest, where participants will post their short films on the Folktellers for Literacy website, where celebrity judges and the community at large can vote for their favorite film.
Selected finalists will attend an exclusive red-carpet premiere event in June 2026 at Emagine Theatres. There, the short films will be showcased on the big screen, giving kids, families, teachers, and the community a chance to celebrate storytelling in true Hollywood style.
“Stories have the power to heal and connect us. When kids read and create, they discover their voice and build confidence, and that’s where literacy and mental well-being truly come together,” says Stephen Sadler, executive producer at Folktellers Studio. “Every story they tell helps them grow, imagine, and feel seen.”
Program registration will open on Nov. 3, 2025, on the Folktellers for Literacy website.
For more information about the Folktellers for Literacy Program, visit folktellersforliteracy.com or contact Nick Thomas at nthomas@emagine-entertainment.com.
