Michael always felt that he grew up as an orphan because, in a way, he missed out on his childhood

Bryan Michael Stoller

Mr Stoller told the Hollywood Reporter his involvement in the project came after Jackson saw a 1999 family film by him called Undercover Angel.

He told the trade paper: "Michael said he wanted to direct, that he liked my style and that we would complement each other as co-directors.

"He was the one who brought this book to me. It deals with orphans, and Michael always felt that he grew up as an orphan because, in a way, he missed out on his childhood.

"We're both big kids, and we feel that when it comes to their emotions, we'd be able to draw that out for the big screen."

Mr Stoller added the book deals with a boy who has a tough time and that the singer related to that.

Mel Gibson's company is said to be behind the movie

Jackson said he could not wait to get started, adding: "I feel we have a wonderful team and this is a perfect marriage with Icon."

The script for the movie is due to be completed in about a month's time and Mr Stoller hopes the finished product could put the pair in line for an Oscar.

A few years ago Jackson paid more than �1m for producer David O Selznick's best picture Oscar for the classic film Gone With The Wind.

Mr Stoller said: "I joke with Michael that this time we're going to earn an Academy Award - he won't have to buy it."

It is not the first time that Jackson has tried his hand at the movie business.

Earlier this year his Neverland Entertainment company invested several million pounds in production and distribution company MDP Worldwide.