Ghanaian-British children’s author
Stories rooted in Ghana. Adventures for every child.
I’m Bernard, a Ghanaian-British children’s author. I write stories full of culture, imagination and adventure — where Black children get to be the heroes. My two sons are at the heart of why I write.
Hello, I’m Bernard!
Why I write
“At every age, my sons would be able to see themselves on their bookshelf. Stories about Ghana that felt real — vibrant, complex, modern, traditional, joyful.”
Bernard K. Mensah
My story, so far
Bernard K. Mensah grew up in Ghana — climbing mango trees, playing pilolo, and racing through books his father brought from the library. Now living in the UK with his two sons, he writes the stories he wished existed when they were younger: books where British-Ghanaian children see themselves as heroes, adventurers, and dreamers.
His debut picture book Esi the Brave (Dial/PRH, 2024) received starred reviews from Kirkus and Shelf Awareness. His Kwame's Magic Quest series (Scholastic Branches) brings Ghanaian folklore and magic to early readers. His 2025 releases include Kente for Jojo (Knopf), Jollof Day (Dial), and Sunshine Baby, Bofrot Cheeks (Little Bee Books).
By day, Bernard is a Senior Software Engineering Manager. By night, he's researching African folklore, studying the craft of picture books, or planning his next research trip to Ghana. He is co-founder of Black Creators in Kid Lit (#BlackCreatorsInKidLit) and founder of Haberman Nerds Press, nurturing and promoting authentic African storytelling in children's literature.
A little of my bookshelf
View all books
Stories that travel. Talent that shines.
Founder of Haberman Nerds Press, an African-owned publisher championing African stories and talent.
Visit Haberman Nerds PressPress Kit
Downloadable assets for press, events, and promotional use.
Literary Agent
Bernard is represented by Natalie M. Lakosil at Looking Glass Literary and Media.
For rights, translation, and trade enquiries, please contact Natalie directly.
Connect
Bring the stories into your school
Storytelling, big questions and a room full of ideas.