'Planet of the Apes' prose novel unveiled

Archaia has announced Conspiracy of the Planet of the Apes.

The book will be the publisher's first illustrated prose novel. It has been adapted by Andrew E.C. Gaska from a story he developed with Rich Handley, Christian Berntsen and Erik Matthews.

It will feature internal illustrations from artists including Ken Kelly (Conan), Joe Jusko (Savage Sword of Conan), Sanjulian (Vampirella), Mark Texeira (Ghost Rider), Leo Leibelman (Heavy Metal) and Tom Scioli (Godland), with a cover by the legendary Jim Steranko.

The book will be released on July 25, and tells the story that unfolded behind the scenes of the original 1968 Planet of the Apes movie, focusing on astronaut John Landon, Chimpanzee scientists Dr Milo and Dr Galen, and Gorilla Security Chief Marcus.

"We're very excited about our first foray into prose fiction publishing, particularly being able to work with a brilliant creative talent in Drew Gaska and a storied franchise like Planet of the Apes. I'm a huge fan of the original film and Conspiracy is a great example of an author playing successfully in an established narrative canon," said Archaia chief creative officer Mark Smylie.

BOOM! Studios has acquired the comic rights to Planet of the Apes.

The James Franco-starring prequel Rise of the Planet of the Apes is out in August. Watch the trailer below: