Grammy Award-winning Christian rapper Lecrae is to release a new book including details of his experience of childhood abuse and his struggles with drugs, alcoholism and depression.

The emphasis of the book, Unashamed, will be on remaining faithful to God and what it means to be a Christian in a sceptical world.

"As an artist, my ambition is to make honest music, and I feel the same way about writing this book," Lecrae said in a statement.

"I want to be honest about where I've come from and what I've learned along the way. I want to influence culture, to help catalyze and inspire, and help other people find understanding. If they find some inspiration and some clarity for their own lives, as they follow my journey, then I will have succeeded."

Speaking in September to Rapzilla.com in September he said that he wanted the book to show people "why I believe what I believe" and hoped that his testimony would also speak to non-Christians.

He added he would write about his principles, including why he feels Christians should be engaging with culture, "establishing His kingdom in every area," not just for the Christian market.

Unashamed is set to be published by B&H publishers in May next year.

Jennifer Lyell of B&H said: "We are thrilled to partner with an artist of the creative caliber as Lecrae. His ability to communicate a message that gives hope and compels toward greater faithfulness will undoubtedly result in a game changing book for individuals and ultimately for the broader culture."

Lecrae is currently on The Anomaly Tour, with the album for which he won Top Christian Album at the Billboard Music Awards on Sunday.