I Am Not a Vampire

Everyone in Arlo's family is a vampire . . . except him. Written by actor, YouTube superstar, and advocate Miles McKenna, this funny and heartwarming story celebrates Arlo as he navigates his identity and becomes his true self.

"In this picture book, a young monster goes down a path of self-exploration. This effective allegory for the queer experience captures a child's yearning to fit in while feeling acutely different from siblings and peers. It's wonderful to see Arlo's journey occurring within the embrace of a loving family; this is both a thought-provoking delight and a balm. A sweet celebration of identity." Kirkus Reviews

"The cheerfully gothic illustrations are filled with comic detail. It also packs an evergreen message about finding and accepting your identity-and that of others." Booklist

Growing up in Pumpkin Valley, a magical town with werewolves, witches, monsters, and ghouls, Arlo is impatiently waiting to become a vampire like everyone else in his family. It's supposed to happen, but no matter what Arlo tries, nothing changes. On a magical, mystical night, Arlo finally transforms into his true self . . . which is NOT a vampire. This warm and joyful picture book by Miles McKenna and published in partnership with GLAAD, is a gorgeous and important story of acceptance, love, and celebrating who you are.

Author: Riley Samels,Miles McKenna
Publisher: Little Bee Books
Published: 05/06/2025
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.75lbs
Size: 8.50h x 10.10w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9781499816235
Audience: Ages 4-8


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 04/01/2025
Booklist 05/01/2025 pg. 99

About the Author
Miles McKenna started sharing his authentic self on social media and is beloved by millions for his comedic voice and activism. He won Best LGBTQ+ Account at the 10th Annual Shorty Awards. Offline, he stars in the Disney+ hit series Goosebumps. This is Miles's debut picture book. His favorite holiday is Halloween, but unlike Arlo, he's never been a werewolf! Miles brings wit, warmth, and weirdness to everything he creates. Find out more on his YouTube channel, MilesChronicles, or on Instagram @themilesmckenna.

Riley Samels is an illustrator who grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended Kent State University and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communications and Design. After graduating he moved to Salt Lake City, Utah where he spent a few years as an illustrator for gifting goods including greeting cards and wrapping paper. He now resides in New Haven, Connecticut where he Illustrates pop-up greeting cards daily. Riley is a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and allows this and other minority communities to inspire and fuel his work to amplify unheard voices. In his free time, he is probably tending to his collection of 112 (and growing) plants. Riley has a green thumb with a passion for illustration, social justice, traveling, and good food.