Pharrell Williams to Release 'Happy' Picture Book Series

Pharrell Williams has signed a deal with Putnam Books for Young Readers to release a series of children picture books. Pharrell has agreed to release four picture books, one of which is inspired by his hit song "Happy".

According to The Associated Press, Putnam announced on Tuesday, February 17 that the first book of the series, titled "Happy", would be published on September 22. The book will feature photos of children from around the world "celebrating what it means to be happy." The publisher plans a first printing of 250,000 copies.

Pharrell has won 11 Grammy Awards including two for "Happy". At this year's Grammys, "Happy" won for Best Music Video and Best Pop Solo Performance. The 41-year-old singer-songwriter delivered a different version of "Happy" after paying tribute to Mike Brown onstage.

He was joined by pianist Lang Lang, German-born composer Hans Zimmer who played guitar and some dancers wearing black hoodies. During the performance, they made a "hands up, don't shoot" gesture which has become a protest chant in the wake of Mike's death.

"Happy" was featured on the soundtrack of "Despicable Me 2" and it was nominated for Best Original Song at the 2014 Oscars.