Wilbur Smith novels in development for TV series

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Three novels by bestselling author Wilbur Smith are being developed for TV.

Corona Pictures and FremantleMedia said the books will serve as the basis for a drama series about a family in Africa, the Courtneys.

The novels are "Birds of Prey," ''Blue Horizon" and "Monsoon," the companies said this week. No cast members were announced for the project, which Corona founder Richard Johns said is in its early stages.

The 81-year-old Smith, who was born in Northern Rhodesia — now Zambia — has 34 book titles including 2013's "Vicious Circle." His books in the Courtney family series number more than a dozen.

Other Wilbur Smith books have been adapted for movies, including 1974's "Gold" and 1976's "Shout at the Devil."

Co-financer and distributor FremantleMedia says the series is intended for international distribution.