"Batman: Revolution Unveils Burton-Verse Riddler in 1989 Sequel"

Tim Burton's iconic Batman universe is expanding once again with the release of a new novel titled "Batman: Revolution." Authored by John Jackson Miller and brought to us by Penguin Random House, this book introduces the Burton-Verse's rendition of The Riddler. You can now pre-order this exciting new addition on Amazon.

As reported by ComicBook.com, "Revolution" serves as a sequel to the 2024 novel "Batman: Resurrection," also penned by Miller. Set between the timelines of the 1989 "Batman" and the 1992 "Batman Returns," "Revolution" draws inspiration from Burton's unrealized third Batman film, which was once slated to feature Robin Williams as The Riddler.

Here's the official synopsis of "Batman: Revolution":

It’s summer, and Gotham City has reason to celebrate. The last remnants of The Joker’s toxic legacy have finally dissipated, just in time for the mayor to team up with retail magnate Max Shreck for a Fourth of July celebration that promises to be unforgettable. However, not everyone shares in the joy. Batman remains ever vigilant as threats from rival gangs and masked criminals intensify daily. Concurrently, street protests grow in opposition to the city’s extravagant displays.

No one feels the tension between Gotham’s hope and despair more keenly than Norman Pinkus. A humble copy boy at the Gotham Globe, he's the unsung genius behind the newspaper's immensely popular "Riddle Me This" word puzzles. Yet, Norman harbors a secret: he is the smartest man in Gotham City, solving crimes anonymously through the police tip line long before Batman is even aware of them.

Despite his lack of recognition and reward, Norman believes in Gotham's potential and justice—until he no longer does. Feeling overlooked as the city and its leaders focus solely on Batman, Norman devises a plan. With the aid of dangerous new allies, he stokes the simmering tensions of the sweltering summer to lure the Caped Crusader into a perilous game of riddles, aiming to reveal Gotham's true savior. As they confront each other, Norman—now The Riddler—and Batman uncover hidden truths about Gotham's past that will have grave implications for its future.

"Batman: Revolution" is set to hit the shelves on October 28, 2025. Secure your copy now by pre-ordering on Amazon.

Batman '89: Echoes & Superman '78: The Metal Curtain Cover Gallery

11 Images

DC Comics has also been actively expanding the Burton-Verse. They released "Batman '89," a sequel to "Batman Returns" featuring a Two-Face inspired by Billy Dee Williams and a Robin inspired by Marlon Wayans. This was followed by "Batman '89: Echoes," which introduces a Scarecrow inspired by Jeff Goldblum and a Harley Quinn inspired by Madonna. Additionally, DC has published two volumes of "Superman '78," serving as sequels to the Christopher Reeve Superman films.

For more insights into Burton's planned third Batman film and other unproduced DC movies, explore the list of DC movies that never made it to the screen.