Beyond 'Sex' - Madonna signs deal to write children's books with celebrated illustrators

In a deal that presumably does not involve any images of the author in erotic poses, Madonna has agreed to write five illustrated story books for young readers.

Becoming a children's author is a new string to the bow of a woman who, apart from being the world's biggest female pop star, an actress, a style icon and a patron of modern art, is the mother of Lourdes, six, and Rocco, two.

Madonna's last big venture into publishing was 1992's high-priced coffee table tome Sex, which featured the author in several erotic images taken by the celebrity photographer Steven Meisel. It was mostly derided as being an embarrassment.

Her series of children's books, according to details of the deal announced yesterday, will see her working with a different "celebrated illustrator'' on each volume.

Madonna first hinted at the new venture six months ago in an interview, saying she had written a book of "spiritual allegories'' for children with her husband, the film producer Guy Ritchie.

The first book, The English Roses – which might be in recognition of the country where she has spent much time since her marriage – is due out in September. It will be published by Puffin Books in the UK, where she joins a roster of world-famous children's authors such as Roald Dahl.

Her books will be aimed at children aged six and older. Francesca Dow, managing director of Puffin, said they had "a colourful cast of characters and gentle humour".Some of Madonna's other ventures outside music have fared poorly. She received lukewarm reviews for her West End stage debut in Up for Grabs last summer while her latest film, Swept Away, directed by Ritchie, bombed in the United States and will not be on general release in this country, going instead straight to video.