High Touch Entertainment, a division of High Touch High Tech - SCIENCE MADE FUN™ Global Brand for Kids, Signs New Licensing Agreements for Its Exploding Spark Universe IP
Andrews McMeel Publishing to Release Science Adventure Graphic Novel The Spark Experiment
Teddy Mountain To Develop and Distribute Plush Products Based on Spark Universe Characters
Asheville, NC, June 3, 2025 - High Touch Entertainment, a division of High Touch High Tech - SCIENCE MADE FUN™ content and immersive science education programs for kids 9-12, with over 35 franchises in 12 countries, has signed new licensing agreements for publishing and plush toys based on its Spark IP.
Andrews McMeel Publishing, the global publisher of award-winning best-selling middle grade graphic novels, comics and humor, poetry, inspiration, and puzzles and games, will be releasing the science adventure graphic novel, The Spark Experiment.
High Touch Entertainment has also reached an agreement with Teddy Mountain, the world’s leading supplier of DIY plush products, to create and distribute both DIY and stuffed plushes featuring the Spark characters.
Both agreements were facilitated by J’net Smith of All Art Licensing.
High Touch Entertainment was founded by CEO Daniel Shaw, who believed the best way to get kids excited about science was to pull them out of textbooks and off computer screens and into projects that are hands-on, immersive, experiential and fun. Emphasizing the three ‘superpowers’ kids need for experimentation – The Power of Observation, The Power of Imagination and The Power of Curiosity – Daniel began creating the interactive content and activities that today have established High Touch Entertainment as a leading STEM education brand for children.
Known for its captivating science programs in schools, after schools and camps, the company has also forged long-running partnerships with family vacation destinations, including a nearly 30-year relationship with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, as well as JW Marriott and Beaches Resorts. High Touch Entertainment is also partnered with the climate education nonprofit 2 Degrees C. Now High Touch looks to reach even more kids with the release of The Spark Experiment, the first ever graphic novel that combines sci-fi/fantasy adventure with real world science experiments.
In The Spark Experiment, David only wants to form a science club and make new friends. But when the spirited Marta joins David’s club, they end up tumbling into another dimension where they meet the mysterious Spark, Working together using science, can Spark and his new friends solve the mysteries of this strange micro-universe and save the world?
Every action (and reaction) is explained scientifically and followed by an easy, yet comprehensive, DIY science experiment for kids to do with simple home products and materials. Enhanced by visually stunning illustrations, this enchanting sci-fi fantasy story captivates young minds, nurtures their imaginations and ignites their curiosity for science.
Daniel Shaw has commissioned top talent for The Spark Experiment. The graphic novel is written by Matthew Manning and illustrated by Matt Loux, both veterans of DC and Marvel Comics. Manning’s credits include dozens of comic books, including the mini-series Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures, the hardcover The Batman Files, and the twelve-issue comic series Marvel Action: Avengers.
Loux is the author and artist of the graphic novels Prunella and the Cursed Skull Ring, The Time Museum Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 (published by First Second Books), Sidescrollers and the five volume series Salt Water Taffy (originally published by Oni Press).
“Our long-standing commitment to opening up the world of science through fun and imagination has helped countless children discover the magic of science,” said Shaw, “In today’s world, this mission has never been more critical. We are thrilled to be collaborating with these terrific partners to reach new audiences and share the amazing world of Spark.”
“Andrews McMeel is delighted to partner with High Touch Entertainment to release The Spark Experiment, a fun and engrossing adventure that will enthrall middle grade readers,” said Kirsty Melville, Chief Executive Officer of Andrews McMeel. “The combination of entertaining fantasy, marvelous graphics, and easily conducted science experiments is destined to be a favorite of kids (as well as their parents and teachers).”
"Teddy Mountain is proud to be known as 'the playful company,' and we are deeply committed to creating plush toys that not only bring smiles but also spark curiosity," said Jenni Green, Chief Product Officer of Teddy Mountain. "Teaming up with High Touch Entertainment to bring their character, Spark, to life in plush form is an exciting collaboration. This partnership beautifully blends fun with education, transforming science into an exciting adventure for kids. Together, we’re not just creating a toy – we’re igniting a passion for discovery and inspiring a lifelong love of learning!"
About High Touch High Tech
High Touch High Tech – SCIENCE MADE FUN! is a global leader in hands-on science enrichment programming for children. With 35 franchise locations in 12 countries, High Touch High Tech brings engaging, curriculum-aligned science experiences directly to schools, camps, preschools, and special events. For over 30 years, the company has empowered children to explore science through interactive experiments that spark curiosity, foster critical thinking, and inspire a lifelong love of learning. Through long-standing partnerships with family-focused brands like Royal Caribbean, JW Marriott, and Beaches Resorts, High Touch High Tech continues to make science meaningful, accessible, and FUN for millions of young learners worldwide. Learn more at www.sciencemadefun.io
High Touch Entertainment was created by founder Daniel Shaw as a way of offering additional science content to kids beyond the High Touch High Tech franchise territories. To differentiate from other science books on the market, Shaw instead landed on the development of a science comic book, with real science experiments wrapped in a compelling story.
About Andrews McMeel
Andrews McMeel Publishing is an innovative leader of more than 50 years in comics and humor, poetry and inspiration, gift books, calendars, and greeting card publishing for children and adults. It is a division of Andrews McMeel Universal, an independent Kansas City-based global media company that partners with a world-class roster of creative and diverse talent. Through publishing, syndication, entertainment, and interactive experiences, AMU connects audiences to universal messages of truth, humor, and hope that have the power to connect people and change lives.
About Teddy Mountain
For over two decades, Teddy Mountain has been a trusted innovator and designer of DIY plush and licensed products. With a global presence and a loyal following known as "Ted Heads," Teddy Mountain has firmly established itself as the go-to supplier for businesses worldwide. Its distribution network spans the USA, UK, EU, and The Emirates, allowing it to deliver high-quality, innovative plush products to its partners globally.
At Teddy Mountain, they are dedicated to creating products that not only bring joy but also serve a meaningful purpose. Its design philosophy focuses on promoting learning, emotional well-being, and healing through imaginative play. By blending creativity with purpose, it strives to make a positive impact on the lives of children, families, and communities.
Through its diverse portfolio, which includes Teddy Mountain®, ECO Origins™, Stuffa Squishies™, Zoonicorn®, Canticos®, and custom-designed products, it aims to provide businesses with unique, high-quality merchandise that resonates with customers. It proudly supports the global retail community by offering both licensed and custom options that inspire joy, education, and fun.
For more information, visit www.teddymountain.com.
