Idris Elba has opened a new enterprise of venturing into children’s books.
The award-winning actor has just inked a global multi-book deal with HarperCollins to publish a range of children’s books.
The deal includes both fiction and picture books that Elba has developed with his writing partner Robyn Charteris whose credits include a BAFTA-winning children’s drama series for CBBC and creating and writing one of the first 52-episode pre-school series for the launch of digital channel CBeebies.
“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,” said Elba in a statement.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, “world rights were acquired by Ann-Janine Murtagh, Executive Publisher, HCCB UK, and Suzanne Murphy, President and Publisher, HCCB US, from Crystal Mahey-Morgan at OWN IT! Entertainment Ltd.”
“Idris Elba is one of the most iconic and multi-talented creatives of his generation and I am delighted that he is joining the HarperCollins Children’s Bookslist,” said Murtagh of the deal. “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.”
