Fall Out Boy bassist Peter Wentz is not the first rock star to write a comic book. However, his new partnership with Vault Comics is the first of its kind. Beyond publishing Wentz’s graphic novel, Dying Inside, the publisher is also producing a line of merchandise based on the book.
Co-written with Hannah Klein, with art by Lisa Sterle, Dying Inside is a dark comedy about life, death, rock, and magic. The story centers around Ash, a depressive teen rocker determined to make an impression with a dramatic death on stage. Unfortunately, her plans are ruined when the knife she bought on-line turns out to be enchanted with a protection spell.
Now, cursed with immortality, Ash tracks down the witch who hexed her. She turns out to be another teenager girl named Liv. The two join forces to give Ash the death she craves, even as they contend with a strange new antidepressant called Somnia, and her mom’s gross boyfriend, Greg.
Pete Wentz was quick to praise his Dying Inside collaborators. “Hannah is one of my favorite contemporary writers, kind of if Larry David and Elliott Smith had a kid, and Lisa‘s an excellent addition to help bring this to life with her artistry,” said Wentz. “Can’t wait for it to be out in the world.”
Hannah Klein was equally complementary. “I’ve been working with Pete on various creative endeavors throughout the years,” Klein noted, “and I feel like our separate styles and shared vision really came through on (Dying Inside).” Klein also praised “the absolutely singular and incredible art by Lisa Sterle” and “the steady and supportive hand of Vault.”
Dying Inside Merchandise Unveiled
Vault Comics is publishing Dying Inside in four different editions. There is a regular edition, a deluxe edition, a glow-in-the-dark edition, and a collector’s edition. This last one comes in a slipcase with an alternate cover that will never be reprinted.
The Dying Inside merchandise line is equally varied. The line includes several t-shirts, temporary tattoos, stickers, and a collectible pin. There is also a special set of Skullcandy headphones.
Dying Inside and its merchandise, are now available for pre-order on the Vault Comics website. Dying Inside releases in September 2024.
