Oscar-nominated child star Quvenzhane Wallis has landed a book deal.

The Beasts of the Southern Wild actress is kicking off her writing career at the age of 12 by signing up to pen a series for kids, which includes three story books and a picture book.

The series will feature a "precocious and talented" young girl and will be loosely based on Quvenzhane's own life.

The first book will be released through the Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers publishing house in 2017 and is aimed at readers aged six and over.

"Reading is very important," Quvenzhane's says in a statement. "It allows people to form a visual experience in their minds of what is going on in the story. I hope all readers enjoy using their imaginations along with me and take a journey into my books."

"I'm thrilled that Quvenzhane is turning her estimable abilities to books," adds Christian Trimmer of Simon & Schuster. "Her dedication to great storytelling is readily apparent. Readers of all ages are in for a real treat."