Bizzilla trevor zahra biography

Trevor Zahra

Maltese writer, poet, illustrator, playwright
Date of Birth: 16.12.1947
Country: Malta

Content:
  1. Trevor Żahra: A Multifaceted Maltese Artist
  2. Early Artistic Pursuits
  3. Teaching Career and Family
  4. Literary and Artistic Achievements
  5. "Stampakelma," a picture dictionary for young learners.
  6. Carlo Collodi's "The Adventures of Pinocchio"
  7. Community Involvement

Trevor Żahra: A Multifaceted Maltese Artist

Childhood and Education

Trevor Żahra was born on December 16, 1947, in Żejtun, Malta, the third of four children. From a young age, he displayed an affinity for various art forms. His initial poetry was published in children's magazines and newspapers.

Early Artistic Pursuits

During his teenage years, Żahra actively participated in theater, playing roles, writing scripts, and performing in a pop music band. He also edited and illustrated the band's small magazine. In 1966, he entered Teacher Training College, where he earned qualifications to teach Maltese and art.

Teaching Career and Family

Żahra dedicated the following 33 years to teaching Maltese and art at secondary school. Concurrently, he briefly worked as a screenwriter for local television, creating children's programs. He married Stella (née Agius) in 1971, with whom he had two children, Ruben and Marija, before her passing in 1989.

Literary and Artistic Achievements

In 1971, Żahra published his first children's adventure book, "Il-Pulena tad-Deheb," which became a Maltese bestseller, inspiring him to continue writing for young readers. His first collection of poetry, "Eden," was released in 1972, followed by his debut novel, "Is-Surmast," in 1973. This novel was adapted for the stage two decades later and performed at Teatru Manoel for multiple seasons.

Żahra has since authored over 130 works, including short stories, poems, and novels, all of which he has personally illustrated. His writings encompass genres such as fantasy, adventure, and historical fiction. He is also credited with producing the first Maltese language educational resources:

The five-part "Nikteb bil-Malti" series, which provides a progressive foundation in writing skills.

"Kliem ix-Xiħ," a collection of proverbs and idioms to introduce children to Maltese folklore.

"Il-Malti," a six-volume textbook series for learning Maltese from preschool to Year 5.

"Stampakelma," a picture dictionary for young learners.

Translation and Dramaturgy

Żahra has translated numerous children's and young adult books into Maltese, including:

Carlo Collodi's "The Adventures of Pinocchio"

Charles Perrault's "Little Red Riding Hood" and "Sleeping Beauty"
Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island"
Alexandre Dumas' "The Three Musketeers"
Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland"

He has also written approximately 20 plays and musicals for both children and adults.

Community Involvement

In addition to his artistic endeavors, Żahra has been actively involved in the community. He served as a member of the Council of the Akkademja tal-Malti (Academy of the Maltese Language) in 2004-2005 and 2013-2017, where he was responsible for public relations.