Mike Nawrocki, the creative genius behind the beloved "VeggieTales" franchise, is back with an exciting new project that promises to entertain and educate children about the New Testament in a fun and engaging way. His latest endeavor, “The Dead Sea Squirrels,” is set to premiere on Minno on February 14, 2025, and aims to capture the hearts of a new generation just as "VeggieTales" did in the 1990s and 2000s.
In an exclusive interview, Nawrocki shared that the inspiration for “The Dead Sea Squirrels” has been brewing for years, harkening back to his days with "VeggieTales." The show follows the adventures of two first-century squirrels, Merle and Pearl, who find themselves accidentally preserved in sea salt near the Dead Sea. Fast forward two millennia, and they are discovered by a modern-day boy named Michael. The comedic escapades that ensue not only entertain but also impart biblical wisdom, making it a delightful watch for children and parents alike.
“I wanted to create a fun way to introduce kids to New Testament stories,” Nawrocki explained. “We always made it a point with ‘VeggieTales’ to avoid depicting Jesus as a vegetable, as that felt too irreverent. With ‘The Dead Sea Squirrels,’ I wanted to explore the life and ministry of Jesus in a way that was both respectful and entertaining.”
The show’s title is a clever play on words, combining the concept of “Encino Man” with the “Dead Sea Scrolls.” Nawrocki’s signature humor shines through in this whimsical title, which hints at the lighthearted nature of the series. Based on his bestselling book series published by Tyndale, the animated adaptation is set to bring Merle and Pearl’s antics to life, featuring 13 episodes filled with laughter and valuable lessons.
Reflecting on the evolution of children’s entertainment, Nawrocki noted the stark differences between launching "VeggieTales" and bringing “The Dead Sea Squirrels” to life. “Back in the day, the home video market was booming, and Christian bookstores played a significant role in our success. Today, streaming is king, and the challenge is finding ways to monetize content while ensuring it reaches families looking for quality entertainment,” he said.
Fortunately, Nawrocki found a perfect partner in Minno, a Christian streaming service dedicated to providing ad-free, family-friendly content. Minno Originals collaborates with top industry talent to produce shows that resonate with both children and parents. The platform is known for its commitment to high-quality faith-based programming, making it an ideal home for “The Dead Sea Squirrels.”
Nawrocki emphasized the importance of blending humor with reverence, a hallmark of his work in “VeggieTales.” “Merle and Pearl are quirky and silly, but the values they discuss—truth, kindness, and honesty—are treated with respect,” he said. This approach is crucial for creating content that resonates across generations.
The first season of “The Dead Sea Squirrels” is based on Nawrocki’s 12-book series, with a narrative arc that allows for further exploration in future seasons. He’s already signed a new deal with Tyndale for another 12 books, indicating that the adventures of Merle and Pearl are far from over.
As Nawrocki prepares to launch this new series, he reflects on the legacy of "VeggieTales," hoping that “The Dead Sea Squirrels” will similarly impact children today. “I want kids to connect with Merle and Pearl, learn important biblical lessons, and understand that they are special and loved by God,” he expressed.
With its engaging characters, humor, and biblical teachings, “The Dead Sea Squirrels” is poised to become a new favorite for families seeking quality Christian entertainment. As parents and children alike count down to the premiere, it’s clear that Nawrocki’s latest creation is ready to make its mark in the world of faith-based children’s content.
For more information about "The Dead Sea Squirrels," visit the official Minno website.