Amy Winehouse writing kids' book

Amy Winehouse leaving a UK court in March, where she faced a common assault charge. Photo / AP

Amy Winehouse wants to write a children's book.

The troubled singer has been writing poems about her life after being inspired by her friend, Babyshambles rocker Pete Doherty, and hopes to inspire youngsters with her literary offerings.

A source said: "Amy's been stimulated since living in St. Lucia. She loves the chilled out atmosphere and has found it has encouraged her to write again.

"Pete Doherty once told her that poetry was a good way to express yourself so she thought writing a book of poems about her life would be a fine start.

"She really wants to write a children's book one day so thought a book of poems would be great practice."

The 'Rehab' star – who fell in love with St. Lucia while on an extended holiday and is now planning to buy a house on the Caribbean island to keep her away from temptations in London – is writing deeply personal material and hopes it will help people understand her better.

The source added to Britain's Daily Star newspaper: "One of her poems is called 'Desire' and is based on her yearning to be loved and to give love.

"Amy is so happy with the results she's even let her bodyguard read her scribbles to understand her."

- BANG! SHOWBIZ