(*Drum Roll*) Arthur's New Friend is...

ARTHUR, television’s longest-running children’s animated series, returns for a 16th season with five all-new episodes featuring new adventures, new laughs, and a brand-new character on PBS KIDS!

In the two-part season premiere, "Based on a True Story," we meet Ladonna Compson, a Louisiana native with the gift of gab. Ladonna charms Arthur and friends with her amazing "true" stories. But are her stories really fact...or fiction?

"We’re delighted to welcome Ladonna to the ARTHUR family. We know many kids will relate to her struggles to fit in and make new friends at school," noted Executive Producer Carol Greenwald. "We trust that fans will enjoy Ladonna’s many stories as much as we do!"

Check out this exclusive sneak preview:

And don’t miss the debut of Elwood City’s newest resident on Monday, October 15 at 4 P.M. on Rhode Island PBS.

The fun continues throughout the week with four new episodes airing Tuesday, October 16 through Friday, October 19. Episode descriptions and airdates below:

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

"Flippity Francine"
When Muffy posts a goofy video of Francine on the Muffington Post, Francine worries she will become the laughing stock of the entire school. Can Francine regain her dignity? Or will she have to swap her cleats for clown shoes?

"Muffy Takes the Wheel"
It’s the 1st Annual Lakewood Derby and Muffy’s revved up! But when she enlists her dad to help her make the winning car, he completely takes over. Can Muffy hit the brakes on this runaway project? Or will she be left in the dust?

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

"All About D.W."
When Emily gets the starring role in the preschool play, D.W. is beside herself with jealousy. She should be Little Red Riding Hood, not Tree #2! Undeterred, D.W. appoints herself Emily’s understudy (just in case!). But when the big moment arrives, can D.W. handle the spotlight?

"Blockheads"
D.W. and Emily are upset when they get stuck with the blocks at playtime. But apathy turns to obsession when they begin building their dream house. Forget snacks and naptime! They’ve got a palastle to build!

Thursday, October 18, 2012

"Get Smart"
Everyone loves HUGO—the new interactive whiteboard that claims to be 100% accurate. If only Mr. Ratburn knew how to use it…After a crash course from Brain, Mr. Ratburn embraces the high tech teaching tool; that is, until HUGO corrects him in front of the class. Let the battle of rat vs. machine begin!

"Baby Steps"
Mei Lin can say "hello" AND play the piano?!? Kate can’t even wave! Worried about her sister’s future, D.W. enlists the help of Brain to determine if Kate is above average, below average, or (gulp!) just average-average…Meanwhile, Kate and Pal are puzzled by D.W.’s odd behavior and vow to find a "cure."

Friday, October 19, 2012

"Night of the Tibble"
The Tibble Twins are having their first sleepover! The lucky victim…err, guest: James. Will the Tibbles lock him in the dark basement? Strap him to the terrifying Flatter Fling? Serve him cupcakes and cookies for dinner?!?

"Read and Flumberghast"
A cupcake’s been stolen! The primary suspect: Tommy Tibble. D.W. gathers a jury and demands that justice be served. Can D.W. get Tommy to confess? Or will she lose control of this kangaroo court?

Stay tuned for more new episodes in Spring 2013!

Join ARTHUR online at pbskids.org/arthur
Visit the redesigned ARTHUR website at pbskids.org/arthur. On the site, children can watch their favorite ARTHUR videos and sing along to classic ARTHUR songs with the karaoke feature. Connect with Arthur and friends and explore interactive surprises on every page!

The ARTHUR website is also home to a variety of educational materials, including resources, lesson plans, and activities, to help kids gain a better appreciation for the world around them. Visit the ARTHUR website at pbskids.org/arthur and watch video clips and full episodes at pbskids.org/video.