PBS has announced plans for a new drama series based on a bestseller that has been called a masterpiece. The broadcaster is joining forces with Ideate Media to develop “The Island at the Center of the World.”

Written by Russell Shorto, the book examines the founding of New York City. Emmy winner Ed Redlich (“The Practice,” “Shark,” “Unforgettable”) and Ridley Scott’s production company Scott Free are collaborating on the historical drama.

“‘The Island at the Center of the World’ is a narrative history of New York City’s origins as the Dutch-founded city of New Amsterdam, on the tip of Manhattan Island,” PBS said in its announcement. “New Amsterdam predated the ‘original’ 13 colonies, but it nonetheless seems strikingly familiar: a cosmopolitan and multi-ethnic enclave whose citizens valued free trade, individual rights and religious freedom.”

Said Beth Hoppe, PBS Chief Programming Executive and General Manager, General Audience Programming: “PBS is thrilled to be working with Ed Redlich, Ideate Media and Scott Free on a production with this caliber of talent. This epic book will make equally epic storytelling as a television event.”