Head Back to the Emerald City withUltimate Oz Universe: The Lost Lands— See Inside! (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Promotional poster for ‘Ultimate Oz Universe: The Lost Lands’.Photo:Handout

Handout

A map from the world of Oz in ‘Ultimate Oz Universe: The Lost Lands.'.Handout

“Like millions of fans around the world, I’ve watchedThe Wizard of Ozcountless 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,” saidAxel Alonso, AWA’s chief creative officer and former Marvel editor-in-chief.“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,” he added.

The Lost Landsintroduces readers to a new protagonist, Tip and brings readers along as he explores the Land of Oz and unravels the mystery of his birth and the magic within him. During his journey, he encounters fan favorites — like the Tin Woodman — and new characters like H.M. Wogglebug.

A page out of ‘Ultimate Oz Universe: The Lost Lands.'.Handout

“I’ve been obsessed with Baum’s work since I was a kid. Getting every detail right was crucial,” said Larry King, songwriter and co-writer ofThe Lost Lands. “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.”The new series is over 10 years in the making. To ensure the books remain true to the author’s original vision, the team collaborated with Baum historians Jay Duncan, Julie McNulty and Mike Bujnak. To add to the novel’s intricacy, QR codes are scattered throughout, directing readers to video footnotes and commentary with original music, maps and behind-the-scenes features to enrich their experience.

“Ever since Baum wrote his original stories, they have become the definition of pop culture, reflecting our human aspirations of achieving our best self against all odds,” said Broadway producer Kevin McCollum who also producedThe Lost Lands. “Oz is not only a place, it’s a universe. The stories from the early 1900s mirror the idea we are all fighting for today, that we can’t give up and must keep trying to find a place where all creatures can live peacefully. It’s a dance between nature and humanity.”

Fans who can’t wait until the Nov. 12 release will have an opportunity to learn more about the series on March 8 during aspecial panelat the Emerald City Comic Con in Seattle.

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.Ultimate Oz Universe: The Lost Landswill be available from AWA on Nov. 12 and is available for proreoder now, wherever books are sold.

source: people.com