Extra!: Walden Media took a unique path into publishing, in that the company made its name in filmmaking and just recently decided to create a publishing division. What went into the decision?
Kovacs: Our company’s projects have always been closely connected with the world of children’s literature, as we believe strongly that great films can encourage kids to read great books. Many of our films, both released and in production, are based on some of the best books in children’s literature -- including “Holes,” “Because of Winn-Dixie,” “The Chronicles of Narnia,” “Hoot,” “Bridge to Terabithia” and many others. It is natural to us to extend our commitment to literature and literacy into a partnership that enables us to get involved with new properties from their initial manuscript stage.