Idris Elba becomes a children's author after putting pen to a multi-book deal

Idris Elba has added yet another string to his bow - being a children's author.

The Luther star, 48, has put pen to paper and signed a multi-book deal to publish a range of children's books which will hit the shelves next year.

The titles will include a range of picture books and fiction and will be developed alongside writing partner Robyn Charteris.

Robyn has previously penned drama, pre-school and animation TV shows, including the soap Crossroads and several episodes of Thomas the Tank Engine's Thomas & Friends.

Father-of-two Elba said: "I feel privileged to have the opportunity to bring stories inspired by my daughter to life with my incredible partner Robyn Charteris, and the powerhouse team at HarperCollins."

Idris Elba will add children's author to his CV (PA)

Executive publisher at HarperCollins Children's Books, Ann-Janine Murtagh, said: "From the outset, Idris had a very clear vision of the characters and stories he has imagined, and is passionate about creating books that will appeal to all children."

Idris joins the ever growing list of celebrities turning their attention to this style of writing with Alesha Dixon, Paul O'Grady, Dermot O'Leary and Tom Fletcher among the famous faces to have published children's books in recent years.

However, his fans will be pleased to know he hasn't left acting behind just yet.

Idris Elba will depart from his Lither character for his book deal (BBC/Des Willie)

The Golden Globe winner revealed last month just how determined he was to star in Concrete Cowboy, a Netflix drama portraying the story of Philadelphia's Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club.

He admitted that he had to battle an allergy to horses in order to land the role he so desperately wanted.

"On the first full day of training, I was scoffing down antihistamines, because my eyes get swollen and my skin blotches out," he said.

"So that was the first learning curve for me, to be able to sit on a horse without crying my eyes out."

The film see Idris play the part of Harp, the ex-con dad of troubled teen Cole – played by Stranger Things star Caleb McLaughlin – who is on a downward spiral before he finds that he shares his dad’s passion for riding horses.

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