Oliver Robins, remembered by horror fans for his role as Robbie Freeling in Steven Spielberg’s Poltergeist (1982) and its 1986 sequel, is stepping into a new creative role as a children’s author. His debut book, Sunset Scares, co-written with award-winning writer Dustin Warburton, will be published October 1, 2025.
The idea for the book was sparked at a horror convention when young fans told Robins they didn’t find Poltergeist frightening. Instead, they found the film fun and entertaining. This reaction led Robins to consider how classic monsters might feel if they were no longer seen as frightening, raising larger themes about purpose and belonging.
Sunset Scares tells the story of three forgotten horror movie monsters who escape from their retirement home for one last Halloween adventure. Along the way, they meet a lonely 10-year-old girl whose family is in need of connection. Together, they discover that being understood and finding purpose is more meaningful than inspiring fear.
Robins brings his decades of experience in filmmaking and storytelling to the project, while Warburton contributes his background in both horror and children’s literature. Known for works such as Spiders 3D and Black Asylum, as well as celebrated collaborations in children’s publishing, Warburton was a natural fit to co-author the story.
“This book is about finding family in unexpected places,” says Robins. “Everyone, even monsters, just wants to belong.”
Sunset Scares combines Robins’ perspective as a filmmaker and horror icon with Warburton’s experience in multiple genres, creating a heartfelt story that will resonate with children and parents alike.
SUNSET SCARES BOOK TOUR DATES:
- Saturday, October 11th 2025 at 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Flintridge books, La Canada Flintridge, CA
- Sunday, October 12, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Emerald Knights Comic & Games, Burbank, CA
- Friday, October 17, 2025 at 12:00 PM Harrison’s Comics and Pop Culture, Salem, MA
- Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM Forbidden Planet, New York City
- Sunday, October 19, 2025 at 12:00 PM Book Ends, New Jersey
