The series first aired in November, 1997; and ended its run in May, 2000. Five seasons were produced, but only the first four are widely available, as the fifth was produced but never directly released. The television series was produced by Nelvana Entertainment; the books have been published by Scholastic.
Franklin is a growing young turtle who, as his television stories always began, "...could count by twos and tie his shoes". He goes to school, lives in a small village with his friends, and has lots of adventures playing and learning in the world around him - sometimes with the helping hand of an adult or his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Turtle.
Franklin Turtle has lots of friends, including Beaver, Rabbit, Goose, and his best friend Bear. When Franklin was younger, Otter was Franklin's best friend, but she had to move away to the city. Franklin has stuffed toy named Sam, and a pet goldfish as well.