In a new deal timed with the 45th anniversary of Eric Carle’s children’s book The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Dublin, Ireland-based kids interactive books and games publisher StoryToys is set to launch a series of global apps based on characters created by the renowned author.

To celebrate the anniversary, March 20 has been designated The Very Hungry Caterpillar Day and StoryToys will mark the occasion by releasing The Very Hungry Caterpillar & Friends, the first app in its three-year partnership with The World of Eric Carle.

The Joester Loria Group, The World of Eric Carle’s exclusive global licensing agent, secured the deal.

Additional The Very Hungry Caterpillar anniversary highlights from March 20 will include a year-long marketing, consumer promotion and new products campaign in partnership with The World of Eric Carle’s worldwide licensee, retail and promotional partners.

To date, the publishing franchise has sold 125 million books globally.