Kylie to publish children's book

Kylie Minogue underwent surgery for breast cancer last May

Pop star Kylie Minogue is to begin a new career as a fiction writer by publishing a children's book.

She will follow the likes of Madonna by releasing The Showgirl Princess, which draws on the singer's own life by featuring a girl's rise to stage fame.

The picture book, which is aimed at fans aged six and upwards, will be published by Puffin in September.

The Australian star is continuing to receive treatment for breast cancer, which forced her to end a world tour.

The hardback book will feature exclusive photos of Minogue taken by long-time collaborator William Baker, as well as illustrations.

The book's editor, Jane Richardson, believes it will "appeal to little princesses everywhere who love to dress up and have fun".

"It brims with positive messages such as believing in yourself and the importance of friendship and teamwork," she added.

Rival effort

Publisher Puffin also released Madonna's books, beginning with The English Roses in 2003, which spent 18 weeks on the New York Times' Bestsellers List.

Madonna's debut book sold more than 500,000 copies worldwide

Madonna's fifth book Lotsa de Casha, was published last June, with another due out later this year.

Minogue rose to fame in the 1980s as an actress in popular soap opera Neighbours before launching a pop career, securing 37 hit singles in the UK.

The 37-year-old has also acted in films including Moulin Rouge, Street Fighter and The Delinquents.

Last November tour promoter Michael Gudinski announced Minogue would perform in Australia at the end of 2006.