World War Z author writing Minecraft novel

Horror author Max Brooks is writing an official Minecraft novel.

Minecraft: The Island is described as "cuboid Robinson Crusoe, but madder: a hero stranded in an unfamiliar land, with unfamiliar rules, learning to survive against tremendous odds".

And, of course, Minecraft does indeed feature Brooks' signature topic: zombies.

Brooks is best known for his future-history undead tale World War Z, which was turned into a decent Brad Pitt movie.

You may also know him for his various graphic novels. He penned The Harlem Hellfighters, which details the African American regiment's experiences in World War 1 (the same regiment will feature in the upcoming Battlefield 1).

Of course, this isn't the first time Minecraft's procedurally-generated world will be given a narrative. Episodic adventure developer Telltale is just wrapping up its own successful take on Mojang's blocky world.

It sounds like more books will launch following Brooks' effort, too.

"We are absolutely thrilled to be working with the fantastic team at Mojang on what will be the first ever official Minecraft novels," publisher Del Rey said, "and we're so fortunate to have someone of Max's incredible talent and passion on board for the launch of the series."

"Finally I can justify all those hours I've spent playing Minecraft," Brooks concluded.

Back in the actual Minecraft game, polar bears, grass paths and beetroot soup are turning up via a free update next week.