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Millie Bobby Brown shredded for her debut novel 'Nineteen Steps' as it sparks debate about ghostwriters

'It's quite bizarre to sell this book as being 'by' her when the name of the ghost writer is no secret at all,' read a tweet

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Millie Bobby Brown has recently made headlines with the release of her debut novel, 'Nineteen Steps'.

However, the young starlet has found herself in the midst of controversy and criticism as questions regarding the use of ghostwriters in the creation of her book has come under scrutiny.

What is Millie Bobby Brown's book 'Nineteen Steps' about?

Brown, widely known for her role as Eleven in the popular series 'Stranger Things', is now trying to make her mark in the world of literature. But her methods have raised eyebrows among literary enthusiasts and fans alike.

While the book is based on real-life events from Brown's family history and tells the story of a young woman during World War II, it's the issue of authorship that has sparked intense debate.

One aspect of the controversy is the prominent mention of Kathleen McGurl, who is credited within the book, while Brown's name stands alone on the cover.

This has fueled speculation about the extent of Brown's involvement in the writing process and the role of the ghostwriter, McGurl, in bringing 'Nineteen Steps' to life.

Adding to the intrigue, a ticketed event at a central London branch of Waterstones, a British book retailer, featured Brown signing copies of her novel.

The event attracted attention and anticipation, with stacks of 'Nineteen Steps' displayed prominently in the store, alongside the caption, "Today's the day...!"

Internet users take a dig at Millie Bobby Brown's literary ambitions 

Internet users turned to platform X to express their criticism of the 19-year-old as she introduced her debut novel.

Among them were author Tony Kent who tweeted, "Beyond bizarre. 'Come to our shop, meet a famous girl from the TV, buy a book she didn't write & she'll sign it for you.' She could sign sandwiches that someone else made & the crowds would be just as big. Meanwhile there are real writers whose books don't get near the place."

Another added, "Re the Millie Bobby Brown thing, I’m not sure attacking a 19yo girl is the answer. She didn’t decide on her own how it was marketed and presented, just as she didn’t write it on her own. It’s on publishers to be more transparent about how these books are really produced."

A third added, "Okay, so the whole Millie Bobby Brown debut thing is annoying me. She did not write it - she collaborated. She may have come up with the idea, she may have researched it, but she didn't write it. IMO, ghostwriters should be credited for their work."

A user claimed, "I do agree with this, but the reality is she’s the one who’s going to bear the brunt from some of her fans. They buy the book expecting it to be written by her then discover it hasn’t been so they’re going to lash out. It’s the power of parasocial relationships but also the curse."

A fifth added, "I actually like her and in her position I think we'd all take advantage of the benefits being famous & successful gets you! I don't have anything against her whatsoever.. it's definitely the fault of the publishers as you say."

Another chimed, "It's quite bizarre to sell this book as being 'by' her, when the name of the ghost writer is no secret at all."