The Jim Henson Company Partners With Penguin Young Readers Group To Launch "The Dark Crystal" Author Quest

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., June 18, 2013 -- The Jim Henson Company and Grosset & Dunlap, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers Group, are reaching out to fans and fantasy writers to enter The Dark Crystal Author Quest, an online contest that will award one winner with a $10,000 contract to write the first book in a new young adult series based on the world of the classic fantasy film.
Beginning today, entrants can visit www.darkcrystal.com/authorquest to read contest rules and guidelines and review all the background materials, descriptions, and history needed to create a submission. Entries will be accepted beginning October 1, 2013, and must be received no later than January 1, 2014. The site is a preview of the upcoming official Dark Crystal website, www.darkcrystal.com, that will be the online destination for all things Dark Crystal.

"This is such an exciting time for The Dark Crystal! We know there are talented fantasy writers out there who would love to add to the incredible universe of The Dark Crystal and we welcome them to submit their best work for a chance to become part of our team," said Cheryl Henson, daughter of Jim Henson and founder of www.darkcrystal.com. "With our new website at www.darkcrystal.com, our loyal fans of all ages can connect with each other online to explore and deeply engage with the rich and endless world of The Dark Crystal."

"We are excited to partner with The Jim Henson Company on this author quest. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the multitude of talented fantasy writers and Dark Crystal fans," said Francesco Sedita, President and Publisher of Grosset & Dunlap. "I'm looking forward to reading all the submissions. The Dark Crystal was such a big part of my childhood and I'm thrilled to able to contribute to the evolution of this important and enduring world."