In today's unexpected adaptation news, Rob Letterman (Monsters vs Aliens) will be directing Captain Underpants for DreamWorks Animation.  Nicholas Stoller (The Muppets) penned the adaptation of Dav Pilkey's series of children's books that center on the adventures of the title hero, created by fourth grade students, George Beard and Harold Hutchins.  Originally published in 1997, Pilkey's series now spans ten books and three spin-offs, plus a Disney Adventures Kids' Choice Award in 2007.  Hit the jump for more.

Heat Vision reports

that Letterman will tackle Captain Underpants for DreamWorks Animation.  Letterman and Stoller previously filled respective director and writer roles on Gulliver's Travels.  Letterman's other directorial efforts for DWA include Shark Tale and Monsters vs Aliens, while Stoller's list of screenwriting achievements sports the live-action comedies, Fun with Dick and Jane, Yes Man, Get Him to the Greek, and The Five-Year Engagement.  Stoller's more family-friendly fare includes 2011's The Muppets, and the upcoming film, Muppets Most Wanted.

Here's the synopsis for the first book in Pilkey's series (via Amazon):

George and Harold have created the greatest superhero in the history of their elementary school--and now they're going to bring him to life! Meet Captain Underpants! His true identity is so secret, even HE doesn't know who he is!

Acclaimed author and Caldecott Honor illustrator Dav Pilkey provides young readers with the adventure of a lifetime in this outrageously funny, action-packed, easy-to-read chapter book. With hilarious pictures on every page, THE ADVENTURES OF CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS is great for both beginning and chapter-book readers. And like Dav's other best-selling books of humor, it is sure to provide even the most reluctant readers with hours of fun.