Artist Writers and Artisans (AWA) are taking fans back to the Yellow Brick Road with the announcement of Ultimate Oz Universe: Vol. 1 The Lost Lands, a graphic novel that will take the famous work of L. Frank Baum and build on it by exploring lesser-known characters and settings. Multiple Grammy award-winning artist Elton John will write the foreword on both the trade paperback and hardcover editions.
“The magic of Oz has been influential throughout legendary musician Sir Elton John’s life, from childhood to inspiring the iconic song Goodbye Yellow Brick Road to now,” a press release from publishers shares. “Committed to shining a light on stories that champion good and uplift others, Elton John is now helping pave the future of the OZ universe, penning a foreword for the upcoming graphic novel from AWA and a powerhouse team of creators – Ultimate Oz Universe: Vol. 1 The Lost Lands.”
Co-written by award-winning writer Cullen Bunn and songwriter Larry King, the book features artwork by Mike Deodato, Jr., colors by Ive Svorcina, and letters by Steve Wands. Fans are also in for extra surprises: the graphic novel will include QR codes throughout its pages that link to video footnotes, commentary with original music, maps, and behind-the-scenes features.
Axel Alonso, Chief Creative Officer at AWA said, “Like millions of fans around the world, I’ve watched The Wizard of Oz countless times over the years. But Dorothy’s adventure with the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion is just a small slice of the complex universe that we are exploring through ULTIMATE OZ UNIVERSE. This is not fan fiction, this is the first of many meticulously researched and canon-faithful stories that show you OZ like you’ve never seen before. Beginning with THE LOST LANDS, we’re transporting readers back to the Emerald City and then way beyond for an adventure that reunites fan-favorite characters and introduces a variety of new faces that fans might not know. Expect heroes, villains, powerful artifacts, exotic locations, and mind-blowing transformations.”
“Every moment with a book is precious and I was dazzled by the first installment in The Ultimate Oz Universe, celebrating the legacy of Baum’s genius and the heritage of color, unique characters and the triumph of goodness,” Elton John wrote in an interview with People.
“I am more committed than ever to shining a light on people and creators who uplift others.” “It’s wonderful to see the love & attention AWA, [author] Larry King and my close friend [Broadway producer] Kevin McCollum have lavished on the Baum books so few people know,” the musician continues.
“I’ve been obsessed with Baum’s work since I was a kid,” added Larry King, songwriter and co-writer of THE LOST LANDS. “Getting every detail right was crucial, which is why working with Jay, Julie, and Mike, three of the world’s most brilliant Oz historians, has been a joy. We’re not trying to replace the stories fans love but offer new ways to dive deeper and connect the dots. There are so many Oz stories waiting to be told, and I can’t wait to see how readers react to this new journey.”
This 144-page graphic novel, set for a Nov. 12 release from AWA and distributed by Simon & Schuster and you can back the Kickstarter here.
