Welcome to What's New in The New 52 – where you, the fans, get a sneak peek at the stuff that crosses our desks. This little feature is a way to keep you all in the loop about what's new, different and exciting in The New 52 – whether it's a character design, cover, splash page or panel.

Last month, I showed you Andy Clarke’s design for The Joker. I also told you that a classic and unexpected Batman villain will be appearing in the upcoming Villains Month one-shot, BATMAN #23.1: JOKER. Well today, I’m pleased to tell you that the villain I was talking about was none other than Jackanapes (who readers last saw in BATMAN, INCORPORATED #5).

BATMAN #23.1: JOKER takes place many years ago – back when The Joker’s face was still intact. In fact, this unique one-shot marks one of the earliest appearances we’ve seen of this notorious villain so far in the New 52. While at a zoo, the Joker will have a flashback to a childhood memory that will trigger his need to take Jackanapes under his wing. It is here that Joker will take on a new, twisted role: that of a mentor. But why is he training Jackanapes to be a villain? What use will he have for him?

In the gallery above, take a sneak peek at Clarke’s interior art for the issue showcasing a montage in which Joker shows Jackanapes the ropes needed to be evil. Oh and as for Jackanapes? You can expect to see more of him in the upcoming miniseries, DAMIAN: SON OF BATMAN, which debuts in stores this October from writer and artist Andy Kubert.

More tomorrow!

Bob