"It was originally supposed to be a book. And one of the things I kept hearing [from publishers] was that there was nothing about Black struggle in it or, you know, loving yourself or your skin," said Leisl Adams.
Adams is a 20-year veteran of the animation industry who has also authored several books; and she's currently developing Malcolm's Midnight Snack Mysteries, a YouTube show for preschool audiences.
"I wanted to see something that was more of a story and starred a Black character and, you know, just a Black kid having fun adventures," said Adams.
What is Malcolm's Midnight Snack Mysteries about?
The show's titular character is an 18-month-old detective who spends his nights finding lost items in his home when he's supposed to be sleeping.
"It was based a lot on my kids. After having kids, you know, babies don't sleep at night. So my answer to 'why don't they sleep?' was maybe they have a little job. Maybe they solve mysteries."
Publishers wanted to push the world's problems on Malcolm, but Adams wanted to protect the show's innocence and provide a character young Black boys – like her two sons – could enjoy without heavy messaging. So, she pivoted to indie animation.
"It's more about having the brother relationship. It's more about their interaction, his interaction with his family members and, you know, learning about empathy and helping others."
What are the future plans for Malcolm's Midnight Snack Mysteries?
Adams anticipates developing up to two seasons , with some interactive YouTube videos sprinkled in-between. She foresees launching a Kickstarter campaign in 2027 to fund episode two.
