Chris Columbus adapting 'The Help'

Director Chris Columbus is to produce an adaptation of bestselling Kathryn Stockett novel The Help.

The story centres on African-American domestic servants working in Mississippi before the civil rights movement, reports Variety.

The book has been on The New York Times' bestseller list for 35 weeks since its publication in February.

Actor-turned-helmer Tate Taylor, who grew up with writer Stockett, will steer the project.

The Help begins production in spring 2010.