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Transcript: Marama the Mermaid
Mr. Hugo’s Little Library
Descriptive Transcript
[Logo] “t.v.o kids original.” The animated multicoloured logo bounces onto a white background. The word "kids" has an eye in the orange letter "d" and a smile in the lime green letter "s".
CHILD: Weeeeee
[Children giggling]
[Light music]
DESCRIPTION: In live-action, in Mr. Hugo’s Little Library, colourful books line curved bookshelves. The whimsical library is decorated with blue walls, a pink chandelier, a red-and-blue desk, lamps, and reading nooks. Mr. Hugo, the Little Library’s librarian, has dark brown curly hair and a bushy brown mustache twisted and waxed at each end. He wears makeup with rosy cheeks, a red suit jacket, a pink-and-blue-checked shirt, a mustard-yellow vest, and a green bow tie.
[Soft curious music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo sits at the desk with his companion, Dewey. Dewey is a fluffy, striped green-and-orange bookworm puppet with a voluminous head of bright orange hair. Mr. Hugo and Dewey each read their own books. Mr. Hugo’s eyes are wide as he reads.
MR. HUGO: They didn't...
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
MR. HUGO: They did! I was not expecting that.
DESCRIPTION: Dewey mumbles in a sing-song gibberish voice.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: How's your book?
MR. HUGO: It's the most page-turning story I've read today, Dewey.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: What's it about? What's it about?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo looks at the book’s remaining unread pages.
MR. HUGO: Mm-hmm. It's about… a hundred and fifty pages.
[Impressed cooing]
MR. HUGO: I'm so excited to finish this book. So I can get onto the next one.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo points behind him, where a tall stack of books sways back and forth.
MR. HUGO: I'll let you know what happens in the end, my friend. I get the feeling there's going to be a twist...
[Dewey gasps]
MR. HUGO: Something no one saw coming.
[Upbeat, introduction music]
[Text reads] “A T.V.N.Z Original”.
DESCRIPTION: In the opening sequence, various videos show Mr. Hugo reading to his friends: Georgie, Tia, and Arlo. Georgie has blonde hair and wears a black cardigan and red barrettes. Tia has brown hair tied in two pigtails and wears a purple sweater and pink pants. Arlo has brown, braided hair with blue beads on the ends, and wears an orange suit jacket.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like big adventures?
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
DESCRIPTION: Georgie, Tia, and Arlo hang out in the library with Mr. Hugo. The library’s bookshelves move around on their own. Various clips show Drag Queens dressed like witches, astronauts, mermaids, circus ringmasters, magicians, and dancing princesses.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like mysteries?
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh-huh!
MR. HUGO [singing]: What about space and mermaids?
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Well, that sounds good to me! Do you like whacky factoids?
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like fairytales?
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh-huh!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes a book from a bookshelf, revealing Dewey.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Are you fond of methopycene anthromorphology?
[Music pauses]
DESCRIPTION: The Drag Queen ensemble, plus Georgie, Tia, Arlo, and Dewey, glance around with confused looks.
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh... What's what? What, huh?
[Music resumes]
MR. HUGO [singing]: Well, you can find whatever you like at Mister...
SINGERS [chorus]: Mister!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Hugo's
SINGERS [chorus]: Hugo's!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Little library
[Title]: “Mr. Hugo’s Little Library”.
[Opening sequence ends]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo continues to read his book while dusting the library with a feather duster. He isn’t looking where he dusts, and accidentally dusts Dewey’s face.
MR. HUGO: No way!
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
MR. HUGO: Yes way!
DEWEY: Ah-ah-ah-achoo!
MR. HUGO: Oh, bless you.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Time for a snack?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo leans against the library desk where Dewey is sitting.
MR. HUGO: I guess it is time for a snack. Hmm! Tell you what, why don't you make your own afternoon tea today, Dewey?
DEWEY: Woo!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles.
MR. HUGO: Oh no... I guess I'll have to stay here and finish my book. You enjoy your snack, I'll enjoy my peace and quiet.
[Enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo continues reading his book. Later, Georgie, Arlo, and Tia enter the library. They are each wearing backpacks and holding books.
GEORGIE: We're back!
ARLO: Kia ora, Mr. H!
TIA: Hi! It's me, Tia!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo slams his book on the desk.
MR. HUGO: Now what?!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo quickly smiles when he turns around and sees the children.
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
MR. HUGO: I mean, kia ora, my new friends! You know my little library's still closed, right?
ARLO: Yeah, but not to us.
GEORGIE: And not forever.
TIA: We're returning these so we can borrow more.
DESCRIPTION: Tia, Georgie, and Arlo put their books on the desk.
MR. HUGO: Fine, but could you please do it quietly? I really need to finish this last chapter. And somewhere, Dewey needs to finish his afternoon tea.
GEORGIE: [whispers]: You got it, Mr. Hugo.
ARLO: [whispers]: We won't take long. You won't even know we're here.
TIA [loudly]: But we're here if you need!
MR. HUGO: Shh!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles at the children.
MR. HUGO [whispers]: And thank you.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo continues reading as Georgie, Tia, and Arlo walk further into the library. Georgie, Tia, and Arlo quietly argue with each other, trying to push one another towards Mr. Hugo.
GEORGIE [whispers]: Arlo!
ARLO [whispers]: Georgie!
ARLO / GEORGIE [both whispering]: Tia!
DESCRIPTION: Georgie and Arlo push Tia towards Mr. Hugo. Mr. Hugo slams his book down and turns around.
MR. HUGO: Quick sticks, kids, what's the probs?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes his book and walks over to the children.
GEORGIE: Well, there's this large, boring wall on the outside of your library.
TIA: Just by your front door.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo tries to walk back to his desk, but keeps being interrupted by the kids.
MR. HUGO: I'll take your word for it.
ARLO: And we want to paint a mural on it.
MR. HUGO: I love murals. They are so arty and wally.
GEORGIE: But we can't agree on what to paint. I want to paint a portrait of you.
MR. HUGO: I love that, Georgie. Do that.
ARLO: But I want to paint a pile of books.
MR. HUGO: I love books, Arlo. Do that.
TIA: But I want to paint a portrait of Dewey.
MR. HUGO: Mm. I do really love Dewey, Tia… I'm afraid what we have here are three equally awesome ideas.
ARLO: Yeah, but whose idea is the best, Mr. H?
DESCRIPTION: The Little Library magically pushes a book out of a bookshelf beside Mr. Hugo. Mr. Hugo pushes the book back.
MR. HUGO: Sorry, Library. I'm in the middle of something.
DESCRIPTION: The Little Library magically levitates the book in front of Mr. Hugo’s face.
[Bright sparkling chime]
MR. HUGO: Can I at least finish reading my book first?
DESCRIPTION: The Little Library magically gives a bookmark to Mr. Hugo. He takes the bookmark and places it in his book.
[Bright sparkling chime]
MR. HUGO: Fine.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes the Little Library’s book and sits down with the children.
MR. HUGO: Me paanui taatou, let's read together. Quickly!
[Bright music]
MR. HUGO: This is the story of Marama the Mermaid, by Chip Wrecked.
[Enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo opens the book and is magically transported into the story. Mr. Hugo is dressed like a pirate. He wears a long blue velvet coat, a pirate hat with a big white feather, a red scarf around his waist, and lots of gold necklaces. Mr. Hugo stands on a stage decorated to resemble a beach, with a blue background, gold fabric draped across it, palm trees, and clouds. Mr. Hugo walks up to a podium and reads his book.
MR. HUGO: Once upon a time… at Ngarunui beach near Raglan, Marama the Mermaid was minding her own mermaid business when she found something.
DESCRIPTION: Marama the Mermaid walks on stage. She wears a voluminous blue wig, with a seashell crown, and a tiny pirate ship in her hair. Marama has a sparkly blue tail and is adorned in pearl jewelry. Marama holds a large blue bottle with a rolled–up scroll inside.
MARAMA: Look what I found! A mysterious message in a bottle!
[Mr. Hugo]: But it wasn't a mysterious message in a bottle.
DESCRIPTION: Marama chucks the bottle and holds up the scroll.
[Bottle crashes]
MR. HUGO: It was a mysterious treasure map in a bottle.
DESCRIPTION: Marama scowls at Mr. Hugo.
MARAMA: Look what I found. A mysterious
MARAMA [emphasized]: treasure map in a bottle.
DESCRIPTION: Marama unrolls the map. The map shows a dotted line with an “X” at the end.
MARAMA: X marks the spot! I wonder what the treasure will be! It says to start by the big Ti Koouka tree.
MR. HUGO: So, she made her way to the big Ti Koouka Tree.
DESCRIPTION: Marama moves to the Ti Koouka Tree before looking back at the map.
MARAMA: Now, eight paces north…
DESCRIPTION: Marama glances around with a confused look.
MARAMA: Hmm... north?
MR. HUGO: Unfortunately, cartography was not one of Marama's strong suits.
DESCRIPTION: Marama looks at Mr. Hugo, who looks back at her, staring.
MR. HUGO [emphasized]: Unfortunately, cartography, the study of maps,
DESCRIPTION: Marama has a look of realization.
MR. HUGO: was not Marama's strong suit.
DESCRIPTION: Marama shrugs and smiles.
MR. HUGO: Fortunately, her friend Shelly the Crab was big time into maps.
DESCRIPTION: Shelly the Crab dances onto the stage wearing a voluminous red wig and diamond jewelry. Shelly has two large, shiny, red claws and a set of antennas. She wears a tulle dress and high heels.
SHELLY: Hey, Marama! North is a-that-a-way.
DESCRIPTION: Shelly points north, then dances away.
MARAMA: Thanks, Shelly!
[Light beachy music]
DESCRIPTION: Marama turns north.
MARAMA: Now, I just need to take eight paces a-that-a-way. Hmm... eight paces...
MR. HUGO: Unluckily, Marama wasn't the best with numbers, having flunked out of fish school. Luckily, her friend Whaea Wheke the Octopus was there to lend a tentacle.
DESCRIPTION: Whaea Wheke dances onto the stage. Whaea Wheke wears a voluminous purple-and-white wig, diamond jewelry, dazzling makeup, and high heels. She has eight metallic purple tentacles and a tutu skirt attached to her sparkling bodice. Whaea Wheke counts as she steps towards Marama.
WHAEA WHEKE: Tahi, rua, toru, whaa, rima, ono, whitu, waru!
DESCRIPTION: Whaea Wheke steps with Marama. Marama counts as she steps north.
MARAMA: One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight!
DESCRIPTION: Marama and Whaea Wheke land in front of a large, blue shell marked with an “X”. Marama high–fives one of Whaea Wheke’s tentacles.
MARAMA: Thanks, Whaea Wheke!
DESCRIPTION: Marama throws the map away.
[Scroll crashes]
MARAMA: Now all I need to do is dig for the treasure! But with what?
MR. HUGO: Thankfully, her friend Gabby the Gull was the Raglan sandcastle champion three years running!
DESCRIPTION: Gabby the Gull dances on stage, holding a shovel. Gabby has long, white feathers and wears a pearl bodice. She wears a feather headpiece in her pin–curled orange wig, which matches her orange high heels.
GABBY: Kia ora, Marama. Did somebody say shovel?
DESCRIPTION: Gabby hands Marama the shovel, then balances on one heel.
MARAMA: Thanks, Gabby! I wonder what the treasure will be?
DESCRIPTION: Marama opens the blue shell. It is filled with pearls, hiding the treasure within. Gabby, Shelly, and Whaea Wheke gather around Marama. Marama holds up the shovel, and they all look at Mr. Hugo, waiting.
[Suspenseful music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo frowns while flipping through the book’s pages.
MR. HUGO: And then, um… I think a bookworm, who will remain nameless, has eaten the rest of the story!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo holds up the book; the pages are filled with holes.
[Gabby, Marama, Whaea Wheke, and Shelly gasp]
DESCRIPTION: Back in the Little Library, Georgie, Arlo, and Tia’s eyes widen.
[Arlo and Tia gasp]
TIA: I think that bookworm is Dewey.
DESCRIPTION: Dewey hides behind a bookshelf.
GEORGIE: Yeah, I think he ate the rest of the story for his afternoon tea.
ARLO: Ugh, now we'll never get to know what the treasure is. Wait. Georgie, do you have your sketch book?
GEORGIE: Yes.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie hands her sketchbook to Arlo.
ARLO: Thank you.
DESCRIPTION: Arlo begins to sketch.
TIA: What are you drawing, Arlo?
ARLO: Something for Mr. Hugo.
TIA: That's nice of you.
DESCRIPTION: Back in the magical story world, Mr. Hugo is suddenly handed a drawing of a golden trophy.
[Gulls squawking]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo whistles for Gabby, Shelly, Marama, and Whaea Wheke’s attention. They all return to their positions as Mr. Hugo continues reading.
[Whistling]
MR. HUGO: And then, Marama dug and dug until she found…
DESCRIPTION: Marama digs in the shell and takes out a golden trophy.
MR. HUGO: A trophy for being the Best Treasure Finder Ever!
[All cheering]
DESCRIPTION: Back in the Little Library, Georgie is drawing a pink diamond in her sketchbook.
GEORGIE: I'm not sure that's what the author was thinking.
ARLO: No, it definitely was.
GEORGIE: That's how it might have ended, but the treasure could be anything. What about this?
DESCRIPTION: Back in the magical story world, Mr. Hugo is handed Georgie’s pink diamond drawing.
MR. HUGO: Oi!
DESCRIPTION: Shelly, Marama, and Whaea Wheke return to their positions.
MR. HUGO: And then Marama dug and dug until she found…
DESCRIPTION: Marama digs in the shell and pulls out a massive pink diamond.
MR. HUGO: A magical jewel that grants a million wishes!
[All cheering]
DESCRIPTION: Tia gives Mr. Hugo another drawing.
[Page tears]
TIA [off screen]: Here, Mr. Hugo.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles. He makes an “again” hand gesture at the Ensemble, drawing a circle in the air with his pointer finger.
MR. HUGO: Or… And then Marama dug and dug until she found…
DESCRIPTION: Marama finds a massive green candy box in the shell.
MR. HUGO: A lifetime supply of...
MARAMA: seaweed flavoured bubblegum?
DESCRIPTION: Marama and Mr. Hugo frown.
[Curious playful music]
DESCRIPTION: Marama tries to offer the seaweed–flavoured bubble gum to the others, but they move away, looking disgusted. Then, Dewey holds up a piece of paper for Mr. Hugo, who nods at him. The ensemble takes their places in front of the treasure chest.
MR. HUGO: And then Marama dug and dug until she found…
DESCRIPTION: A golden trophy bubblegum machine appears on stage, with a big pink diamond emerging from the top.
MARAMA: A trophy! A bubblegum machine trophy with a magic jewel that grants wishes!
[All cheering]
DESCRIPTION: Marama, Shelly, Gabby, and Whaea Wheke perform a musical number together.
[Bright folk music]
DESCRIPTION: Marama takes centre stage and sings.
[Marama clearing throat]
DESCRIPTION: Shelly, Gabby, and Whaea Wheke dance in a prop boat together.
MARAMA [singing]: There's a hundred million ways to solve a problem. There's a billion jillion ways for things to end. There's 18 different ways to get to Raglan. But you'll have sailed the bestest ship. And that is friend. So many choices we can choose.
DESCRIPTION: Shelly, Gabby, and Whaea Wheke dance in a line behind Marama.
MARAMA [singing]: We've got nothing left to lose. A treasured trophy to be won. A wishing jewel
SHELLY: That sounds like fun!
MARAMA [singing]: A sign of shiny things to come. Except for seaweed bubblegum. As we sail out on the seas. I can put your mind at ease. There's a hundred million ways. to solve a problem. There's a billion jillion ways for things to end.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo joins the dancing.
MARAMA [singing]: There's 18 different ways to get to Raglan. But you'll have sailed the bestest ship. And that is friend. So brush yer teeth and make yer bed. As adventure waits ahead. The journey is its own reward. So set the sails and climb aboard. But getting there is half the fun. Our adventure has begun. As we set out on our quest. With my friends who are the best. There's a hundred million ways to solve a problem.
ALL: Yeah!
MARAMA [singing]: There's a billion jillion ways for things to end.
ALL: Woo-hoo!
MARAMA [singing]: There's 17 different ways to get to Raglan
GABBY: Whitley Street is closed.
MARAMA [singing]: But you'll have sailed the bestest ship. And that is friend
ALL: Huzzah!
[Light enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: In the Little Library, Mr. Hugo dances with Georgie, Tia, and Arlo. They all sit back together.
[Children cheering]
MR. HUGO: I guess there can be more than one right answer. Right, Dewey?
DEWEY: Mm-hmm!
MR. HUGO: And maybe stick to veggie sticks for afternoon tea from now on.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Okay!
TIA: I've got a good idea! Why don't we paint a mural of Mr. Hugo reading a book to Dewey?!
GEORGIE: Yes!
ARLO: Yes!
MR. HUGO: I cannot get over how good of an idea that is, Tia! Now, can I please have some shush so I can finish my other book?
GEORGIE [whispering]: Yes.
ARLO [whispering]: Yes.
TIA [loudly]: Sure!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo winces. Georgie, Arlo, and Tia grab their bags and walk away. Mr. Hugo smiles at them.
MR. HUGO: Thank you, my friend-ships.
GEORGIE: You know, when you open your library, there will be a lot more new friends coming in.
MR. HUGO: Hmm.
ARLO: You are opening it. Right?
MR. HUGO: Maybe.
TIA: Maybe yes?
MR. HUGO: Maybe not no.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo winks and smiles.
MR. HUGO [whispers]: Yes.
[Bright folk music]
[Upbeat music]
[Mr. Hugo mimicking a guitar solo]
[End Credits] Executive Producers: Gary Scott, Victoria Spackman, Ken Faier, Richard McConnell. Created by: George Fowler, Nathan Mudge, Mary Baker. Producers: Sam Wilton, Marlene Schmidt. Creative Producer: Cheryl Hassen. Associate Producer: Nathan Mudge. Director and Associate Producer: Caroline Bell–Booth. Lead writer: Amanda Alison. Cast: Mr. Hugo, George Fowler. Dewey, Rebekah Head. Georgie, Roxy Hyde. Arlo, Jacob Slaughter. Tia, Hannah Ellis. Various: Jthan Morgan, Robin, Aunty T, Olivia, Slay, Eric Rich, Joshua Hughes. Produced in Association with Knowledge: kids. tvoKids. T.V.N.Z. R.N.Z. Produced with the financial support of Irirangi Te Motu N.Z On Air Tamariki. New Zealand Film Commission Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga. Shaw Rocket Fund (fuelling creativity), Canada Media Fund. Ontario Creates. Funded by the Government of Canada. Telefilm Canada. CMPA, Canadian Media Producers Association. Writers Guild of Canada. Logos: Epic Story Media (it’s gonna be epic!). A New Zealand - Canada Co-Production. Gibson Group. Copyright 2026 Little Library Productions NZ Ltd. and Little Library Productions CA Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Descriptive Transcript
[Logo] “t.v.o kids original.” The animated multicoloured logo bounces onto a white background. The word "kids" has an eye in the orange letter "d" and a smile in the lime green letter "s".
CHILD: Weeeeee
[Children giggling]
[Light music]
DESCRIPTION: In live-action, in Mr. Hugo’s Little Library, colourful books line curved bookshelves. The whimsical library is decorated with blue walls, a pink chandelier, a red-and-blue desk, lamps, and reading nooks. Mr. Hugo, the Little Library’s librarian, has dark brown curly hair and a bushy brown mustache twisted and waxed at each end. He wears makeup with rosy cheeks, a red suit jacket, a pink-and-blue-checked shirt, a mustard-yellow vest, and a green bow tie.
[Soft curious music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo sits at the desk with his companion, Dewey. Dewey is a fluffy, striped green-and-orange bookworm puppet with a voluminous head of bright orange hair. Mr. Hugo and Dewey each read their own books. Mr. Hugo’s eyes are wide as he reads.
MR. HUGO: They didn't...
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
MR. HUGO: They did! I was not expecting that.
DESCRIPTION: Dewey mumbles in a sing-song gibberish voice.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: How's your book?
MR. HUGO: It's the most page-turning story I've read today, Dewey.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: What's it about? What's it about?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo looks at the book’s remaining unread pages.
MR. HUGO: Mm-hmm. It's about… a hundred and fifty pages.
[Impressed cooing]
MR. HUGO: I'm so excited to finish this book. So I can get onto the next one.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo points behind him, where a tall stack of books sways back and forth.
MR. HUGO: I'll let you know what happens in the end, my friend. I get the feeling there's going to be a twist...
[Dewey gasps]
MR. HUGO: Something no one saw coming.
[Upbeat, introduction music]
[Text reads] “A T.V.N.Z Original”.
DESCRIPTION: In the opening sequence, various videos show Mr. Hugo reading to his friends: Georgie, Tia, and Arlo. Georgie has blonde hair and wears a black cardigan and red barrettes. Tia has brown hair tied in two pigtails and wears a purple sweater and pink pants. Arlo has brown, braided hair with blue beads on the ends, and wears an orange suit jacket.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like big adventures?
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
DESCRIPTION: Georgie, Tia, and Arlo hang out in the library with Mr. Hugo. The library’s bookshelves move around on their own. Various clips show Drag Queens dressed like witches, astronauts, mermaids, circus ringmasters, magicians, and dancing princesses.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like mysteries?
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh-huh!
MR. HUGO [singing]: What about space and mermaids?
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Well, that sounds good to me! Do you like whacky factoids?
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like fairytales?
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh-huh!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes a book from a bookshelf, revealing Dewey.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Are you fond of methopycene anthromorphology?
[Music pauses]
DESCRIPTION: The Drag Queen ensemble, plus Georgie, Tia, Arlo, and Dewey, glance around with confused looks.
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh... What's what? What, huh?
[Music resumes]
MR. HUGO [singing]: Well, you can find whatever you like at Mister...
SINGERS [chorus]: Mister!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Hugo's
SINGERS [chorus]: Hugo's!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Little library
[Title]: “Mr. Hugo’s Little Library”.
[Opening sequence ends]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo continues to read his book while dusting the library with a feather duster. He isn’t looking where he dusts, and accidentally dusts Dewey’s face.
MR. HUGO: No way!
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
MR. HUGO: Yes way!
DEWEY: Ah-ah-ah-achoo!
MR. HUGO: Oh, bless you.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Time for a snack?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo leans against the library desk where Dewey is sitting.
MR. HUGO: I guess it is time for a snack. Hmm! Tell you what, why don't you make your own afternoon tea today, Dewey?
DEWEY: Woo!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles.
MR. HUGO: Oh no... I guess I'll have to stay here and finish my book. You enjoy your snack, I'll enjoy my peace and quiet.
[Enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo continues reading his book. Later, Georgie, Arlo, and Tia enter the library. They are each wearing backpacks and holding books.
GEORGIE: We're back!
ARLO: Kia ora, Mr. H!
TIA: Hi! It's me, Tia!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo slams his book on the desk.
MR. HUGO: Now what?!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo quickly smiles when he turns around and sees the children.
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
MR. HUGO: I mean, kia ora, my new friends! You know my little library's still closed, right?
ARLO: Yeah, but not to us.
GEORGIE: And not forever.
TIA: We're returning these so we can borrow more.
DESCRIPTION: Tia, Georgie, and Arlo put their books on the desk.
MR. HUGO: Fine, but could you please do it quietly? I really need to finish this last chapter. And somewhere, Dewey needs to finish his afternoon tea.
GEORGIE: [whispers]: You got it, Mr. Hugo.
ARLO: [whispers]: We won't take long. You won't even know we're here.
TIA [loudly]: But we're here if you need!
MR. HUGO: Shh!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles at the children.
MR. HUGO [whispers]: And thank you.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo continues reading as Georgie, Tia, and Arlo walk further into the library. Georgie, Tia, and Arlo quietly argue with each other, trying to push one another towards Mr. Hugo.
GEORGIE [whispers]: Arlo!
ARLO [whispers]: Georgie!
ARLO / GEORGIE [both whispering]: Tia!
DESCRIPTION: Georgie and Arlo push Tia towards Mr. Hugo. Mr. Hugo slams his book down and turns around.
MR. HUGO: Quick sticks, kids, what's the probs?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes his book and walks over to the children.
GEORGIE: Well, there's this large, boring wall on the outside of your library.
TIA: Just by your front door.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo tries to walk back to his desk, but keeps being interrupted by the kids.
MR. HUGO: I'll take your word for it.
ARLO: And we want to paint a mural on it.
MR. HUGO: I love murals. They are so arty and wally.
GEORGIE: But we can't agree on what to paint. I want to paint a portrait of you.
MR. HUGO: I love that, Georgie. Do that.
ARLO: But I want to paint a pile of books.
MR. HUGO: I love books, Arlo. Do that.
TIA: But I want to paint a portrait of Dewey.
MR. HUGO: Mm. I do really love Dewey, Tia… I'm afraid what we have here are three equally awesome ideas.
ARLO: Yeah, but whose idea is the best, Mr. H?
DESCRIPTION: The Little Library magically pushes a book out of a bookshelf beside Mr. Hugo. Mr. Hugo pushes the book back.
MR. HUGO: Sorry, Library. I'm in the middle of something.
DESCRIPTION: The Little Library magically levitates the book in front of Mr. Hugo’s face.
[Bright sparkling chime]
MR. HUGO: Can I at least finish reading my book first?
DESCRIPTION: The Little Library magically gives a bookmark to Mr. Hugo. He takes the bookmark and places it in his book.
[Bright sparkling chime]
MR. HUGO: Fine.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes the Little Library’s book and sits down with the children.
MR. HUGO: Me paanui taatou, let's read together. Quickly!
[Bright music]
MR. HUGO: This is the story of Marama the Mermaid, by Chip Wrecked.
[Enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo opens the book and is magically transported into the story. Mr. Hugo is dressed like a pirate. He wears a long blue velvet coat, a pirate hat with a big white feather, a red scarf around his waist, and lots of gold necklaces. Mr. Hugo stands on a stage decorated to resemble a beach, with a blue background, gold fabric draped across it, palm trees, and clouds. Mr. Hugo walks up to a podium and reads his book.
MR. HUGO: Once upon a time… at Ngarunui beach near Raglan, Marama the Mermaid was minding her own mermaid business when she found something.
DESCRIPTION: Marama the Mermaid walks on stage. She wears a voluminous blue wig, with a seashell crown, and a tiny pirate ship in her hair. Marama has a sparkly blue tail and is adorned in pearl jewelry. Marama holds a large blue bottle with a rolled–up scroll inside.
MARAMA: Look what I found! A mysterious message in a bottle!
[Mr. Hugo]: But it wasn't a mysterious message in a bottle.
DESCRIPTION: Marama chucks the bottle and holds up the scroll.
[Bottle crashes]
MR. HUGO: It was a mysterious treasure map in a bottle.
DESCRIPTION: Marama scowls at Mr. Hugo.
MARAMA: Look what I found. A mysterious
MARAMA [emphasized]: treasure map in a bottle.
DESCRIPTION: Marama unrolls the map. The map shows a dotted line with an “X” at the end.
MARAMA: X marks the spot! I wonder what the treasure will be! It says to start by the big Ti Koouka tree.
MR. HUGO: So, she made her way to the big Ti Koouka Tree.
DESCRIPTION: Marama moves to the Ti Koouka Tree before looking back at the map.
MARAMA: Now, eight paces north…
DESCRIPTION: Marama glances around with a confused look.
MARAMA: Hmm... north?
MR. HUGO: Unfortunately, cartography was not one of Marama's strong suits.
DESCRIPTION: Marama looks at Mr. Hugo, who looks back at her, staring.
MR. HUGO [emphasized]: Unfortunately, cartography, the study of maps,
DESCRIPTION: Marama has a look of realization.
MR. HUGO: was not Marama's strong suit.
DESCRIPTION: Marama shrugs and smiles.
MR. HUGO: Fortunately, her friend Shelly the Crab was big time into maps.
DESCRIPTION: Shelly the Crab dances onto the stage wearing a voluminous red wig and diamond jewelry. Shelly has two large, shiny, red claws and a set of antennas. She wears a tulle dress and high heels.
SHELLY: Hey, Marama! North is a-that-a-way.
DESCRIPTION: Shelly points north, then dances away.
MARAMA: Thanks, Shelly!
[Light beachy music]
DESCRIPTION: Marama turns north.
MARAMA: Now, I just need to take eight paces a-that-a-way. Hmm... eight paces...
MR. HUGO: Unluckily, Marama wasn't the best with numbers, having flunked out of fish school. Luckily, her friend Whaea Wheke the Octopus was there to lend a tentacle.
DESCRIPTION: Whaea Wheke dances onto the stage. Whaea Wheke wears a voluminous purple-and-white wig, diamond jewelry, dazzling makeup, and high heels. She has eight metallic purple tentacles and a tutu skirt attached to her sparkling bodice. Whaea Wheke counts as she steps towards Marama.
WHAEA WHEKE: Tahi, rua, toru, whaa, rima, ono, whitu, waru!
DESCRIPTION: Whaea Wheke steps with Marama. Marama counts as she steps north.
MARAMA: One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight!
DESCRIPTION: Marama and Whaea Wheke land in front of a large, blue shell marked with an “X”. Marama high–fives one of Whaea Wheke’s tentacles.
MARAMA: Thanks, Whaea Wheke!
DESCRIPTION: Marama throws the map away.
[Scroll crashes]
MARAMA: Now all I need to do is dig for the treasure! But with what?
MR. HUGO: Thankfully, her friend Gabby the Gull was the Raglan sandcastle champion three years running!
DESCRIPTION: Gabby the Gull dances on stage, holding a shovel. Gabby has long, white feathers and wears a pearl bodice. She wears a feather headpiece in her pin–curled orange wig, which matches her orange high heels.
GABBY: Kia ora, Marama. Did somebody say shovel?
DESCRIPTION: Gabby hands Marama the shovel, then balances on one heel.
MARAMA: Thanks, Gabby! I wonder what the treasure will be?
DESCRIPTION: Marama opens the blue shell. It is filled with pearls, hiding the treasure within. Gabby, Shelly, and Whaea Wheke gather around Marama. Marama holds up the shovel, and they all look at Mr. Hugo, waiting.
[Suspenseful music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo frowns while flipping through the book’s pages.
MR. HUGO: And then, um… I think a bookworm, who will remain nameless, has eaten the rest of the story!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo holds up the book; the pages are filled with holes.
[Gabby, Marama, Whaea Wheke, and Shelly gasp]
DESCRIPTION: Back in the Little Library, Georgie, Arlo, and Tia’s eyes widen.
[Arlo and Tia gasp]
TIA: I think that bookworm is Dewey.
DESCRIPTION: Dewey hides behind a bookshelf.
GEORGIE: Yeah, I think he ate the rest of the story for his afternoon tea.
ARLO: Ugh, now we'll never get to know what the treasure is. Wait. Georgie, do you have your sketch book?
GEORGIE: Yes.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie hands her sketchbook to Arlo.
ARLO: Thank you.
DESCRIPTION: Arlo begins to sketch.
TIA: What are you drawing, Arlo?
ARLO: Something for Mr. Hugo.
TIA: That's nice of you.
DESCRIPTION: Back in the magical story world, Mr. Hugo is suddenly handed a drawing of a golden trophy.
[Gulls squawking]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo whistles for Gabby, Shelly, Marama, and Whaea Wheke’s attention. They all return to their positions as Mr. Hugo continues reading.
[Whistling]
MR. HUGO: And then, Marama dug and dug until she found…
DESCRIPTION: Marama digs in the shell and takes out a golden trophy.
MR. HUGO: A trophy for being the Best Treasure Finder Ever!
[All cheering]
DESCRIPTION: Back in the Little Library, Georgie is drawing a pink diamond in her sketchbook.
GEORGIE: I'm not sure that's what the author was thinking.
ARLO: No, it definitely was.
GEORGIE: That's how it might have ended, but the treasure could be anything. What about this?
DESCRIPTION: Back in the magical story world, Mr. Hugo is handed Georgie’s pink diamond drawing.
MR. HUGO: Oi!
DESCRIPTION: Shelly, Marama, and Whaea Wheke return to their positions.
MR. HUGO: And then Marama dug and dug until she found…
DESCRIPTION: Marama digs in the shell and pulls out a massive pink diamond.
MR. HUGO: A magical jewel that grants a million wishes!
[All cheering]
DESCRIPTION: Tia gives Mr. Hugo another drawing.
[Page tears]
TIA [off screen]: Here, Mr. Hugo.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles. He makes an “again” hand gesture at the Ensemble, drawing a circle in the air with his pointer finger.
MR. HUGO: Or… And then Marama dug and dug until she found…
DESCRIPTION: Marama finds a massive green candy box in the shell.
MR. HUGO: A lifetime supply of...
MARAMA: seaweed flavoured bubblegum?
DESCRIPTION: Marama and Mr. Hugo frown.
[Curious playful music]
DESCRIPTION: Marama tries to offer the seaweed–flavoured bubble gum to the others, but they move away, looking disgusted. Then, Dewey holds up a piece of paper for Mr. Hugo, who nods at him. The ensemble takes their places in front of the treasure chest.
MR. HUGO: And then Marama dug and dug until she found…
DESCRIPTION: A golden trophy bubblegum machine appears on stage, with a big pink diamond emerging from the top.
MARAMA: A trophy! A bubblegum machine trophy with a magic jewel that grants wishes!
[All cheering]
DESCRIPTION: Marama, Shelly, Gabby, and Whaea Wheke perform a musical number together.
[Bright folk music]
DESCRIPTION: Marama takes centre stage and sings.
[Marama clearing throat]
DESCRIPTION: Shelly, Gabby, and Whaea Wheke dance in a prop boat together.
MARAMA [singing]: There's a hundred million ways to solve a problem. There's a billion jillion ways for things to end. There's 18 different ways to get to Raglan. But you'll have sailed the bestest ship. And that is friend. So many choices we can choose.
DESCRIPTION: Shelly, Gabby, and Whaea Wheke dance in a line behind Marama.
MARAMA [singing]: We've got nothing left to lose. A treasured trophy to be won. A wishing jewel
SHELLY: That sounds like fun!
MARAMA [singing]: A sign of shiny things to come. Except for seaweed bubblegum. As we sail out on the seas. I can put your mind at ease. There's a hundred million ways. to solve a problem. There's a billion jillion ways for things to end.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo joins the dancing.
MARAMA [singing]: There's 18 different ways to get to Raglan. But you'll have sailed the bestest ship. And that is friend. So brush yer teeth and make yer bed. As adventure waits ahead. The journey is its own reward. So set the sails and climb aboard. But getting there is half the fun. Our adventure has begun. As we set out on our quest. With my friends who are the best. There's a hundred million ways to solve a problem.
ALL: Yeah!
MARAMA [singing]: There's a billion jillion ways for things to end.
ALL: Woo-hoo!
MARAMA [singing]: There's 17 different ways to get to Raglan
GABBY: Whitley Street is closed.
MARAMA [singing]: But you'll have sailed the bestest ship. And that is friend
ALL: Huzzah!
[Light enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: In the Little Library, Mr. Hugo dances with Georgie, Tia, and Arlo. They all sit back together.
[Children cheering]
MR. HUGO: I guess there can be more than one right answer. Right, Dewey?
DEWEY: Mm-hmm!
MR. HUGO: And maybe stick to veggie sticks for afternoon tea from now on.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Okay!
TIA: I've got a good idea! Why don't we paint a mural of Mr. Hugo reading a book to Dewey?!
GEORGIE: Yes!
ARLO: Yes!
MR. HUGO: I cannot get over how good of an idea that is, Tia! Now, can I please have some shush so I can finish my other book?
GEORGIE [whispering]: Yes.
ARLO [whispering]: Yes.
TIA [loudly]: Sure!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo winces. Georgie, Arlo, and Tia grab their bags and walk away. Mr. Hugo smiles at them.
MR. HUGO: Thank you, my friend-ships.
GEORGIE: You know, when you open your library, there will be a lot more new friends coming in.
MR. HUGO: Hmm.
ARLO: You are opening it. Right?
MR. HUGO: Maybe.
TIA: Maybe yes?
MR. HUGO: Maybe not no.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo winks and smiles.
MR. HUGO [whispers]: Yes.
[Bright folk music]
[Upbeat music]
[Mr. Hugo mimicking a guitar solo]
[End Credits] Executive Producers: Gary Scott, Victoria Spackman, Ken Faier, Richard McConnell. Created by: George Fowler, Nathan Mudge, Mary Baker. Producers: Sam Wilton, Marlene Schmidt. Creative Producer: Cheryl Hassen. Associate Producer: Nathan Mudge. Director and Associate Producer: Caroline Bell–Booth. Lead writer: Amanda Alison. Cast: Mr. Hugo, George Fowler. Dewey, Rebekah Head. Georgie, Roxy Hyde. Arlo, Jacob Slaughter. Tia, Hannah Ellis. Various: Jthan Morgan, Robin, Aunty T, Olivia, Slay, Eric Rich, Joshua Hughes. Produced in Association with Knowledge: kids. tvoKids. T.V.N.Z. R.N.Z. Produced with the financial support of Irirangi Te Motu N.Z On Air Tamariki. New Zealand Film Commission Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga. Shaw Rocket Fund (fuelling creativity), Canada Media Fund. Ontario Creates. Funded by the Government of Canada. Telefilm Canada. CMPA, Canadian Media Producers Association. Writers Guild of Canada. Logos: Epic Story Media (it’s gonna be epic!). A New Zealand - Canada Co-Production. Gibson Group. Copyright 2026 Little Library Productions NZ Ltd. and Little Library Productions CA Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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