Gwyneth Paltrow cheers up Madonna

Gwyneth Paltrow has formed a Hollywood book club to cheer-up her friend Madonna.

The 'Iron Man' actress has asked some of her closest friends to meet and discuss their favourite tomes to help shift their winter blues and to help the 'Give It 2 Me' singer get over her impending divorce from Guy Ritchie.

Gwyneth, 36, said: "I feel a bit swallowed up in January, the days are so short, the sky is so close and grey.

"The best way to escape is to curl up by the fire with an amazing novel."

Gwyneth - who is married to Coldplay frontman Chris Martin - explained why she started the club: "I like knowing the literary preferences of people - it gives a better understanding of their inner life."

Madonna - who split from film director Guy last year - is a keen reader, and Gwyneth lists her friend's favourite book as 'The Bad Girl' by Mario Vargas.

It was recently reported Gwyneth bought the '4 Minutes' singer a selection of Agent Provocateur underwear and sex toys in a bid to bring a smile back to her face.