ABOUT SUPERBOOK
A Legacy of Animation to Transformation
In 1981, the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) embarked on an ambitious mission to share the stories of the Bible with the people of Japan through the power of animation. Partnering with the renowned Japanese anime studio Tatsunoko Productions, CBN launched "Anime Oyako Gekijo," known to the world as "Superbook." What began as an outreach to a nation with little exposure to Christianity quickly became a global phenomenon, touching hearts and changing lives across continents.
Superbook first aired in Japan, captivating over 8 million viewers nightly and propelling the Bible to become the nation’s best-selling book. This unprecedented success revealed the timeless appeal of biblical stories and the universal need for their message.
As the series gained momentum, its reach extended beyond Japan. In 1989, amidst the collapse of communism, Superbook broke new ground in the Soviet Union. Airing during prime-time on the Soviet National Channel, the series introduced an entire generation to the Bible, resulting in over 6 million letters from children eager to learn more about the God they had just encountered.
Superbook's impact did not stop there. The series was translated into 43 languages and broadcast in 106 countries, reaching more than 500 million people around the globe. This monumental achievement solidified Superbook's place as one of the most influential Christian television series in history.
Reimagining Superbook for a New Generation
In 2005, recognizing the need to engage a new generation with the stories of the Bible, CBN Animation reimagined Superbook using the latest CGI technology. A team of Emmy-winning artists and storytellers, whose credits include classics like “Mulan”, “The Lion King”, and “Beauty and the Beast”, joined forces to bring the stories of the Bible to life in a fresh, dynamic way. The goal was clear: to honor the life-changing legacy of the original series while making it relevant for today’s children.
This new iteration of Superbook has continued to break barriers, reaching children where they are most engaged—in the digital space. Through mobile devices, the Superbook Kids Bible app, and an engaging discipleship curriculum, Superbook Academy, CBN Animation’s Superbook is not only entertaining children but also leading them on a journey of faith and discovery.
A Growing Global Movement
Superbook’s influence has sparked a global evangelistic movement, with millions of children around the world coming to know Jesus as their Savior. The series continues to shape hearts and minds, proving that the stories of the Bible are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago.
As we look to the future, we are inspired by the words of Isaiah 55:11: "So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it."
Superbook is more than just an animated series—it is a powerful tool for evangelism and discipleship, guiding children to the transformative love of Jesus Christ. Join us on this journey of animation and transformation, as we continue to share the greatest story ever told with children around the world.
Superbook - A Journey of Animation and Transformation