Kimball Bent Malcontent

Chris Grosz captures in words and pictures the adventuring life of sailor, soldier, deserter, outlaw and Hau Hau slave, Kimball Bent. After signing up for the Queen's shilling, Bent was sent to New Zealand in the 1860s, on the eve of the tumultuous Taranaki land wars. An act of defiance saw Bent deserting the army, and his eventual adoption by Maori tribes. Kimball Bent: Malcontent illustrates Bent's life as a Pakeha Maori, his assimilation into tribal life, his observation of secret war rites, including cannibalism, and being on the side of the Hau Hau at the famous battle at Te Ngutu o Manu where Gustav von Tempsky was killed. One of New Zealand's folk heroes, Bent's story encompasses romance, bloodshed and mayhem. His story has been recorded by James Cowan and fictionalised by Maurice Shadbolt. Rendered in scraperboard style, this graphic novel will have crossover appeal for teenagers and adults alike, bringing Bent's story to a new generation of New Zealanders.