Universal makes 'Wicked' deal

Thompson to adapt first book in Marr's series

By MICHAEL FLEMING

Universal Pictures has acquired screen rights to "Wicked Lovely," the bestselling first book in a fantasy series written by Melissa  Marr that will see its fourth installment published next year by Harper Collins.

The studio bought the book to be produced by Wild West Picture Show Prods., and has hired "Edward Scissorhands" scribe Caroline Thompson to adapt it.

Wild West is Vince Vaughn's U-based shingle.

The protagonist is a 17-year-old girl who can see fairies, and must fend off the advances of a fairy king determined to marry her to save the planet from his vengeful mother.

CAA brokered the book deal with Writers House and ICM reps Thompson.