Mariah Carey gets childish

Mariah Carey has a number of projects in the works. The artist is in the process of writing an illustrated children's book about a biracial orphan girl, which could be turned into an animated series.

"The children's [project] is a very natural step," says Creative Artists Agency agent Rob Light says. "It's something she's worked on without the help of ghostwriters. She has a whole idea based on her biracial heritage; she thinks there is a huge audience."

Carey's next Island Def Jam album is due out this year. Manager Benny Medina says the record will "hit all the marks," from her signature ballads to R&B crossover songs and high-energy dance tracks. She's been working with such A-list producers as Kanye West, Swizz Beats and R. Kelly.

The artist is likely to tour again after the album's release. "She really enjoyed the last touring experience," Light says. "She really felt she put on a show that was her and connected with the audience. We're looking at the big picture. I think touring will be a part of it."
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