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

The Tim Burton Batman universe is set to expand further with the release of a new novel titled Batman: Revolution. Penned by acclaimed author John Jackson Miller and brought to you by Penguin Random House, this novel introduces the Burton-Verse's interpretation of The Riddler. Fans eager to dive into this new chapter can preorder their copy on Amazon, ensuring they don’t miss out on the action.

As highlighted by ComicBook.com, Batman: Revolution follows the narrative set by Miller's 2024 release, Batman: Resurrection. Positioned chronologically between the iconic films Batman (1989) and Batman Returns (1992), Revolution draws inspiration from Burton's unproduced third Batman film, which was initially slated to feature Robin Williams as The Riddler.

Image Credit: Penguin Random House

Here's the official summary for Batman: Revolution:

It’s summer, and Gotham City has reason to celebrate. The lingering effects of The Joker’s toxic legacy have dissipated just in time for the mayor to collaborate with retail magnate Max Shreck on a Fourth of July celebration like no other. Yet, not all of Gotham is in a festive mood. Batman remains ever-vigilant as threats from rival gangs and masked criminals intensify daily. On the streets, protests swell against the city’s lavish indulgences.

No one feels the tension between Gotham’s hope and its cynicism more acutely than Norman Pinkus. As the Gotham Globe’s modest copy boy, he’s the unsung genius behind the newspaper's wildly popular Riddle Me This word puzzles. But Norman harbors a secret. He's the most intelligent man in Gotham, using his exceptional intellect to solve crimes anonymously via the police tip line—often before Batman is even aware of them.

Despite his contributions, neither fame nor fortune comes to Norman. He holds onto the belief in Gotham’s potential and the pursuit of justice—until he no longer can. Overlooked and underappreciated, Norman devises a plan. With the aid of new, dangerous allies, he manipulates the simmering unrest of the hot summer to lure the Caped Crusader into a high-stakes game of riddles, aiming to prove who Gotham's true savior is. As Norman, now The Riddler, and Batman confront each other, they unearth hidden truths about Gotham’s past that will have far-reaching effects on its future.

Batman: Revolution is scheduled for release on October 28, 2025, and is available for preorder on Amazon.

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

11 Images

DC Comics has also been expanding the Burton-Verse with additional content. 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, introducing 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 those interested in learning more about Burton's planned third Batman film and other unproduced DC projects, explore the list of DC movies that never made it to the screen.