Poet, editor and painter Gregory O'Brien is one of New Zealand's most prolific contributors to both arts and literature. His poems and short stories are widely anthologised, and he has published several acclaimed volumes of poetry. O'Brien's writing often 'incorporates elements of personal, public and religious history, graphically portrayed in his paintings and drawings, many of which illuminate his books.' His works of non-fiction, particularly those directed at young readers, are highly regarded and have received major awards.