Magic Story, an AI-driven media platform, has launched a customizable storytelling service that allows children to become the hero of their own magical adventures. The platform offers personalized books, animated videos, read-aloud digital stories, and music, blending Hollywood-style storytelling with cutting-edge technology.
Co-founders Erik Ober and Alex Hawkins bring experience from the animated film industry and expertise in technology and psychology to the venture. Ober, Magic Story’s CEO, said the platform is designed to nurture confidence and growth in children. “Stories have the power to transform how children see themselves and the world,” he stated. “Magic Story is more than entertainment; it’s a tool to unlock each child’s potential.”
Magic Story offers 24 stories in six categories, focusing on themes of learning and growth. Families can access these as hardcover or softcover books or digitally via an app available on iOS and Android. A subscription service, Magic Story Plus, provides additional benefits, including personalized digital stories, a library of music, avatar creation, and discounted book printing.
Hawkins, the chief creative officer, explained how AI enhances the platform’s storytelling. He noted that ethical use of AI enables personalized adventures that encourage ‘mental rehearsal,’ helping children visualize overcoming challenges and building positive self-belief.”
The company, supported by $4 million in seed funding from Point72 Ventures and The House Fund, aims to offer a meaningful alternative to traditional streaming services. Ober described Magic Story as a response to the challenges posed by digital junk food and social media toxicity, saying, “With our backgrounds in 3D animation and digital art, and the advent of AI, we saw an opportunity to bring Hollywood-level production to families worldwide.”
The platform utilizes a multi-modal AI system integrating large language models (LLMs) with advanced safety features. “To ensure safety and appropriateness for children, we’ve implemented a sandbox approach within the Magic Story universe,” Ober said, adding that parents retain control by creating content tailored to their child’s needs.
Subscriptions are priced at $15 per month, with a 30-day free trial. Customers can order books now, with a December 13 deadline for Christmas delivery. Magic Story positions itself as a platform where storytelling meets technology to inspire confidence and creativity in the next generation.
Featured image: Credit: Magic Story
