DC has announced the release of Dark Night: A True Batman Story, from legendary writer Paul Dini (Batman: The Animated Series, Batman Beyond, Lost) in June 2016. The graphic novel is presently being produced by Vertigo, the creator driven imprint of DC Entertainment. The story is a harrowing and eloquent autobiographical tale of Dini’s courageous struggle to overcome a truly desperate situation, with illustrations by the award winning Eduardo Risso (100 Bullets).

An extremely personal story for Dini and the first time he’s told it to the world, the book focuses on a night that he was assaulted and brutally beaten by strangers and left on the sidewalk. In this surprising original graphic novel, Batman is seen in a new light, not as the grim avenger of the night, but as a savior who helps a discouraged man recover from a brutal attack that left him unable to face the world

But despite how bleak his circumstances were, or perhaps because of it, Dini always imagined the Batman at his side, urging him along during his darkest moments.  Paul Dini said: “Batman is a character truly universal in his ability to entertain and inspire fans of all ages and backgrounds. As a writer of Batman stories for comics, video games and animation, I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to contribute to that legacy”.

“I must admit that this is not the kind of story I typically draw; it was undoubtedly a new challenge in my career”, added artist Eduardo Risso. “This novel gave me the opportunity to do something different with the graphic narrative. I didn’t have any idea about what aesthetic to use, but I was sure that I didn’t want to do the same thing I was used to doing. I hope you like it”.

Dark Night: A True Batman Story will be available in book stores on June 15, 2016.