Idris Elba signed a global multi-book deal with legacy publisher Harper Collins. His line of children’s books will hit the shelves in 2022. 

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the actor partnered with writer Robyn Charteris to create both picture books and fiction novels. 

Elba stated in an interview with the publication that his daughter was the nature of his inspiration for the books. He 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 Harper Collins.” 

Harper Collins mentioned that they are excited and enthusiastic to be working with Elba on this project, as they believed his creativity would be a great asset. 

Executive Publisher of HCCB UK, Ann-Janine Murtagh, said, “Idris Elba is one of the most iconic and multi-talented creatives of his generation, and I am delighted that he is joining the Harper Collins Children’s Books list.

“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.”

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Writer and partner Charteris is accredited for a BAFTA-winning children’s drama series for CBBC and creating and writing pre-school and animation programs for BBC. 

Of Charteris, Murtagh stated that she has “a fantastic track record in writing for children” and for “working with some of the biggest producers of children’s entertainment.”

Murtagh also added, “I am hugely excited to also welcome her to the world of children’s books. I feel privileged that Idris has entrusted us to bring his stories to life, and I cannot wait to share them with children across the globe.”

Elba, a Golden Globe and SAG award-winning actor, musician, and filmmaker, is known not only for his contributions to these entertainment streets but also for this work with the Mama Youth Project.

The nonprofit organization partnered with Elba’s production company Green Door Pictures to create opportunities for the underrepresented youth in the entertainment industry, according to NewsOne.