Trans ‘Goosebumps’ actor Miles McKenna writes children’s book about being different
Miles McKenna knows what it’s like to be different.
The openly transgender “Goosebumps” actor and vlogger, 28, has turned his own experiences into a children’s book. According to People magazine, “I am NOT a Vampire” tells the story of a boy named Arlo, the only member of his family who is not a fanged creature of the night.
Transgender actor Miles McKenna has written “I am NOT a Vampire,” a children’s book about being different. The book launches May 6. (Credit: Little Bee Books)
To prove to his family that he belongs with them in Pumpkin Valley, Arlo plans to transform into a vampire on Friday the 13th, the magazine reported. When the time comes, however, Arlo finds himself turning into something else altogether.
The book mirrors some of the themes of McKenna’s own childhood.
“I was raised in a family where being who I am wasn’t accepted, and I lacked the language to be able to advocate for myself,” McKenna said in a statement. “Halloween was my favorite holiday as it’s the one night of the year where everyone’s unique look is celebrated, and you can push the ‘acceptable’ boundaries of who you’re ‘supposed’ to be.”
McKenna stated that he wanted to be a vampire one Halloween, but the female costume his mother bought, which included a long wig and a gown, felt wrong.
“The following year, in second grade, I asked again if I could be a vampire,” he said. “My mom reminded me that I was a vampire the year prior. I corrected her and said, ‘I want to be a boy vampire.’”
McKenna’s book, which is scheduled for release on May 6, was illustrated by Riley Samels. It is being published by Little Bee Books, in partnership with GLAAD.
The publishing company celebrated on Wednesday with an Instagram post that revealed the book’s cover for the first time.
“On sale May 6th, this new picture book is a celebration of becoming your true self, told with the help of a young werewolf who is NOT a vampire,” the post read.
McKenna also shared a social media post, to which Samels responded.
“It truly was such a pleasure to illustrate this for you,” the artist wrote. “I hope everyone loves it as much as I love how it all came together. Great job, Miles!”
In addition to his breakout “Goosebumps” role, McKenna is also known for his role as a LGBTQ+ activist and his YouTube channel, which holds over 1 million subscribers, according to People. He also published the book “Out! How to Be Your Authentic Self” in 2020.