Brenton E McKenna, locally known by his middle name, “Eszra” is a respected Yawuru artist based out of Broome, WA, who found a passion for comic books in his youth. A passion which ultimately led to him to become one of the world’s most coveted First Nations Graphic Novelists.

 

Eszra was inspired by the complexity and depth of Ghost Rider comics, rather than Superman in his youth. While the other kids played sport, Eszra went into other worlds, reading comics and becoming immersed in vivid drawings. As his illustrating skills developed through his teenage years, so did his ability to write stories, to become a complete storyteller. His stories were a deep combination of his own childhood experiences, his grandmother’s stories about Broome and the monsters and heroes that existed in his head.

 

After studying visual arts in Victoria, Eszra was one of twenty successful applicants to be awarded a highly sought-after and respected mentorship with the Australian Society of Authors in 2008.

 

It wasn’t long before Magabala books, a respected First Nations independent publisher, published Eszra’s first work – Ubby’s Underdogs: The Legend of the Phoenix Dragon in 2011.

 

The “Ubby’s” brand has gone on to become an iconic three-part series with Ezsra touring his work across the globe and attending literature festivals in many parts of the world. Furthermore, this historical deal with Magabala affirmed Eszra’s place as Australia’s first ever published Indigenous graphic novel author.

 

Eszra’s book touring has since included The US Library of Congress’ National Book Day Festival, The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Bangalore Literature Festival and The Brisbane Writers Festival to name but a few. The same notoriety led to his comic strip, Ole Champ, being prestigiously published in The West Australian, each week, which continues to this current day.

 

Eszra also dedicates his time to educating kids and youth through creative storytelling workshops. Using his “you can be anything you want” mantra, he takes learning into a fantastical, exciting and visual space through his innovative and imaginative teachings.

 

Eszra’s latest graphic novel, Hairy Holes is a hilarious look at life in the outback and features more of his creative style and humour.

 

Eszra can be booked for workshops, corporate and commercial projects, both in person and by virtual link in 2024.