We all know that the Count loves viscous red goo, but what if that goo were only good ole’ fashioned jelly filling inside a donut?
Writer Brian Gonsar and artist Keenan Gaybba explore this concept in their new all-ages graphic novel from Oni Press titled Dracula’s Brunch Club.
Opening with a foreword from Kevin Jonas of the Jonas Brothers, the OGN is perfect for monster kids and parents and donut lovers everywhere.
We spoke to the creative team all about Dracula’s Brunch Club in this exclusive interview.
How did you both come together for Dracula’s Brunch Club?
Brian Gonsar: I’m a big fan of music videos, so I’m always on the lookout for new ones. A few years ago, I was watching All Time Low’s video for “Monster” and absolutely loved the art style. I did some online sleuthing to track down Keenan, the creator of the video. When I approached him, I asked if he had any interest in illustrating books and, luckily, he did. We talked about the vision for the book and put together a pitch packet that our agent, Stacey Graham, used to pitch it out to publishers. We’ve since met two times in person, which is tricky since I’m in the US and Keenan is in South Africa. But zoom and emails help us stay connected.
In terms of the concept it is just scary enough, but more comedic. How did you make sure that it always remained funny?
Gonsar: My wife always yells at me that I can’t take anything seriously. I won’t deny it––I usually try to find the humor in any situation or ease any tension with a joke. I also know that when I was in middle school, I was more engaged in a book or show if I was laughing. So, when I tried to build this story as a comedy in a spooky wrapper, I knew that every scary or dark moment had to be tempered with some humor. It was on the top of my mind throughout. But the words can only go so far – Keenan did a fabulous job with the visual humor and character expressions. That played a big role in making sure the story was funny throughout.
In terms of your take on Dracula (aside from the donut obsession), what went into his design in terms of his characterization and look?
Keenan Gaybba: I wanted him to have a strong silhouette and be instantly recognizable so he has this kind of Romanesque profile, noble while at the same time a little goofy. The donut medallion is part street cred, part secret weapon.. he uses it to hypnotize a couple people in the story.
Keenan-This is your first graphic novel. What was the experience like and what did you learn about the medium through it?
Gaybba: Making a graphic novel is more difficult than it looks, it’s definitely given me a new respect for the medium and everyone working in this field. But it’s been a dream, and I’ve learned so much about what goes into making a graphic novel; from laying out panels (Brian helped tremendously with how he laid out the script—you can see some examples in the extras at the back of the book), to working with an editor and publisher and all the things that go into making the book a reality. It’s a long slow process but definitely worth it!
Brian-You are a self-professed donut aficionado. What is your favorite type of donut and what is your favorite local and chain donut store?
Gonsar: That’s like telling a parent to pick their favorite kid. I do find it hard to say ‘no’ to an old fashioned buttermilk donut (ala the ones at Doughnut Vault in Chicago) or a cruller (like the maple glazed beauties Daily Provisions cranks out). And some of my favorite donut shops are places like Donut Plant (NYC), Sidecar Doughnuts (various locations in California), Blackbird Doughnuts (Boston), and The Salty Donut (various locations like Miami and Austin).
How did Kevin Jonas end up writing the foreword to Brunch Club?
Gonsar: I sent him about 4-dozen donuts in the course of a week and he asked what it would take for me to stop. Well, maybe not. Last winter, he mentioned doing something like a foreword to me. He’s my brother-in-law so we’re often hanging out. He’s very supportive of anyone in the family doing something creative, and, the great part is, he has a strong connection to comics, which you can read about in the foreword.
Future projects?
Gonsar: Keenan and I are working on a YA graphic novel as well as toying around with a sequel idea. I also have another MG graphic novel which is close to being pitched out.
Gaybba: As Brian mentioned we’ve got a few things brewing. My wife and I are also working on a MG graphic novel series we’re hoping to pitch in the near future.
Look for Dracula’s Brunch Club at your local bookstore or comic shop on August 26.
