Avatar was more noted for its visual and technical achievements than its story and Unobtainum-heavy script: despite its huge commercial success it’s perhaps an unusual candidate for a series of spin-off novels. But four separate novels set in the Avatar universe will arrive on shelves over the next few years, courtesy of sci-fi author Steven Charles Gould.

Director James Cameron explained “Steven Gould is one of the shining lights in contemporary science fiction, and I’ve long admired the worlds and characters he’s created in his books and stories. We’re very fortunate to have Steven bring his formidable talents to the Avatar universe. He is already working closely with me and the screenwriters to flesh out the expanding world of Avatar.”

Fans of the blockbuster - the biggest grossing film of all time - shouldn't stress, however, as we can expect a lot more cinematic Avatar as well. Cameron and a group of screenwriters are currently working on a trilogy of sequels, expected to be shot back-to-back next year. The sequels are due to be released in 2016, 2017 and 2018 - although given Cameron’s track record, a delays are not out of the question.

Meanwhile, in a BBC interview Cameron has again stressed his loyalty to 3D (“it’s how we see the world”) and how he believes it is the future of entertainment. You can watch the interview here.