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Scholastic has announced its partnership as the publisher for the popular YouTube series Skibidi Toilet, a comedic sci-fi saga that has captured the attention of online audiences. Since its debut in 2023, Skibidi Toilet has exploded in popularity, resulting in a robust ecosystem of both official and fan-generated content. The main YouTube channel boasts over 45 million subscribers, while the collective universe of content—encompassing both official and user contributions—has attracted a staggering total of 110 million subscribers and billions of views. The first wave of books based on this franchise is slated for release this fall.
Conceived by Alexey Gerasimov, popularly known as Boom!, Skibidi Toilet is licensed through Invisible Narratives. The series employs a unique Machinima animation style developed using a video game graphics engine, presenting a narrative that centers on a fantastical conflict. This conflict involves alien toilets with unsettling, human-like heads rising from their bowls, waging war against a coalition of humanoid fighters equipped with gadgets for the purpose of salvaging humanity from peril.
Debra Dorfman, who serves as the VP and publisher for global licensing, brands, and media at Scholastic, expressed her initial skepticism regarding the property. “When we first began hearing about it, we were perplexed,” Dorfman shared with PW. “It seemed like a jumble of memes. We wondered what could be done with it. The YouTube shorts were so bizarre, but we didn’t grasp the intricate lore behind it. After conversations with the creators, we discovered a wealth of quirky and imaginative storytelling.”
The first phase of Scholastic’s publishing initiative includes three original 96-page e-books scheduled for release in August, October, and December, along with a comprehensive guidebook expected in fall 2025. Following these, a print edition that compiles the three e-books, enhanced with new material, will be unveiled in early 2026, together with an adult coloring book. “This is our first venture into e-books,” Dorfman remarked. “We aimed to bring it to market swiftly.” Plans are underway for additional products, including a graphic novel, a sticker book, and a character encyclopedia set to release later in 2026.
Although Skibidi Toilet resonates strongly with younger audiences, Scholastic intends to target the Young Adult (YA) readership with its publications. “While it’s not frightening, it carries a level of sophistication, along with its distinctive weirdness and dystopian elements,” said Dorfman. “Ultimately, the decision lies with the parents. They are engaged and excited about it as well.”
The franchise is not just limited to digital media; it has birthed a variety of licensed Skibidi Toilet merchandise, including collectibles and toys produced by Bonkers Toys. Additionally, the series is being adapted into a feature film by director Michael Bay, a co-founder of Invisible Narratives, further amplifying its cultural footprint.
Monster Jam Publishing Initiative
In another licensing endeavor, Scholastic will be releasing a new series of trade books focused on Monster Jam, following a successful partnership with Feld Entertainment that has thrived in educational settings. This year, families can look forward to an original 8×8 storybook, an official guidebook, a board book equipped with wheels, and a tabbed novelty book. The publishing schedule continues into 2026 with another 8×8, a magnet book, and a touch-and-feel publication aimed at young children aged four to seven.
The organic growth of the Monster Jam property into a beloved family event appealed to Scholastic, as noted by Dorfman. “It’s incredibly engaging,” she stated. “The vehicles with enormous wheels have their own personalities, making them captivating for both children and adults alike. The toys produced by Spin Master are visually impressive and stand out on store shelves.”
Attendees at Monster Jam events frequently seek autographs from their favorite drivers, and discussions are underway between Scholastic and Feld about the potential creation of a special autograph book, possibly exclusive to arenas when the next tour makes its debut in 2026.
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