Italian publishing character Geronimo Stilton is hosting a new social community for children that includes activities, animated programming and an online marketplace.

The new GeronimoStilton.com is helmed by brand-owner Atlantyca Entertainment in partnership with Italian publisher Edizioni Piemme. Through the support of  global Geronimo publishers Scholastic, Edizioni Piemme  Albin Michel, Baeckens Book, De Wakkere Muis, Grup 62 and 21 Century Publishing House, the portal is available in seven  languages to include English American, Italian, French, Dutch, Flemish, Catalan and Chinese.

Developed by eBit Innovation, a marketing and web innovation company, and the web creative agency IM*MEDIA, the portal’s marketplace features licensed merchandise available from a collection of publishers and manufacturers. Many of the print and electronic media products are available for download and links are provided for purchasing toys and licensed merchandise. Already on board are Geronimo licensees Universal Home Entertainment, Giochi Preziosi, Gut, La Nuova Faro, De Agostini Group, ETM and On Air.

In related news, Japanese publishing house Kodansha has signed a five-year deal for the release of the Geronimo Stilton Funny Tales book series throughout Japan. One of the world’s largest publishers of books, magazines and manga will release the first series title in June through its Kodansha Children’s Books division.

To date, Geronimo Stilton books have been translated into 35 languages and distributed to 150 countries with sales of more than 55 million copies. Geronimo Stilton the animated series centers on the life and adventures of the erudite mouse.