Publisher Creatively Classic Activities and Books (CCA and B) has sued Adams Media, alleging that The Elf Off the Shelf infringes on CCA and B’s copyrighted title, The Elf on the Shelf. The lawsuit also includes Adams editor Brendan O’Neill, publicist Beth Gissinger and designer Jessica Faria.
According to Publishers Weekly, the complaint contains allegations of infringement on copyright, trademarks and website domain name. The publisher seeks a permanent injunction as well as damages for the suit. Adams Media will argue that The Elf Off the Shelf parodies CCA and B’s backlist title.
Here’s more about The Elf Off the Shelf: “It’s the photo-story set to verse of one disgruntled little helper with a gift for making mischief. Whether he’s getting into the eggnog or trying to bed Barbie, his AWOL antics could ruin the holidays for everyone!” As of right now, The Elf Off the Shelf is slated for release on October 18th. CCA and B’s Elf on the Shelf line currently has two products; the original picture book and an activity book.