Short biography

Bernard K. Mensah is a Ghanaian-British children's author and founder of Haberman Nerds Press, an African-owned publisher championing African stories and talent. His books celebrate adventure, imagination and representation. He writes picture books and the Kwame's Magic Quest series for young readers. Discover his books and school visits at bernard.ink.

Long biography

Bernard K. Mensah is a Ghanaian-British children's author whose stories invite young readers into worlds of adventure, imagination and belonging. He grew up in Ghana and now lives in the United Kingdom with his two sons.

His books include Esi the Brave (Who Was Not Afraid of Anything), Jollof Day and Kente for Jojo, alongside the Kwame's Magic Quest series for emerging readers. Esi the Brave received starred reviews from Kirkus Reviews and Shelf Awareness, and Kente for Jojo received a starred Kirkus review. His work is published by imprints including Dial Books and Knopf Books for Young Readers, as well as Scholastic.

Bernard is the founder of Haberman Nerds Press, an African-owned publisher championing African stories and talent. Through his writing and publishing work, he wants children to encounter African characters, cultures and imaginations at the heart of their stories.

He also works in software engineering. For schools, libraries and festivals, his visits bring together expressive storytelling, conversation and opportunities for children to develop their own ideas. Find books, resources and visit enquiries at bernard.ink.

Event host introduction

Please welcome Bernard K. Mensah, a Ghanaian-British children's author and founder of Haberman Nerds Press. His books include Esi the Brave, Jollof Day, Kente for Jojo and Kwame's Magic Quest. Today he'll share the stories, imagination and Ghanaian heritage that inspire his work.

Interview topics

- African and Ghanaian representation in children's books
- Writing picture books and early chapter-book adventures
- Family, food, festivals and the stories children grow up with
- Building opportunities for African storytelling through Haberman Nerds Press

Website: https://bernard.ink
School, library and media enquiries: https://booksbybernardkmensah.co.uk/contact
Literary representation: Natalie M. Lakosil, Looking Glass Literary and Media (https://www.lookingglasslit.com).
For name pronunciation, please ask Bernard rather than using an unconfirmed phonetic spelling.
Updated: 4 October 2026
