By Erick Rivera & Harriet Bailey • Illustrated by Erick Rivera
Word Count: 687 • Ages 4–8 • Neurodiversity, Big Feelings, Self-Expression
On his first day at a new school, Wobbly Gorilla tries to fit in with his reptile classmates. But every time he hides his differences to “not make a fuss,” disaster strikes, until his parents remind him that speaking up is okay. The next day, Wobbly’s honesty inspires his classmates to share their own differences, changing the school forever.
Sample Text + Illustration 1
Spread 4: Pages 7–8
Wham! His egg went flying, and so did everyone else’s.
Bam! Bam! Bam! One by one, all the eggs smashed against the wall.
“Oops,” Wobbly said, embarrassed. “I didn’t mean for that to happen.”
Sample Text + Illustration 2
Spread 12: Pages 23–24
The next day, Wobbly stood at the front of the class.“Hi, everyone. My name is Wobbly, and I’m a gorilla. That means I do things a little differently...”
“Yesterday, I had big feelings, but I kept them inside because I didn’t want to make a fuss. Holding it in just made it harder to control my body... Next time I need help, I’ll ask, because speaking up helps
everyone.”
Erick Rivera is a Los Angeles–based author, artist, and cartoonist from Watts. His stories blend humor, heart, and honesty, often drawing from his community and everyday life. His debut graphic novel, The Hat Boyz (2019), was added to the permanent collection of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art for its storytelling and cultural impact.
Harriet Bailey
Originally from the UK, Harriet Bailey is an early childhood educator and children’s musician (Miss Harriet and Friends). She shares her love of music and movement with young children in Los Angeles, championing play-based and creative learning. She is passionate about the importance of early literacy skills, social-emotional learning, and neurodiversity advocacy.
Why This Story Matters
​
Tackles emotional regulation in a playful,
accessible way for kids ages 4–8.
Highlights individuality, empathy, and
self-expression.
Integrates humor and chaos with a heartfelt resolution, perfect for read-alouds.
Wobbly is an allegory for any child who feels like an outsider or different, whether because of neurodiversity, race, ethnicity, or other experiences, reminding readers that every difference is worth celebrating.
Thank you
Erick Rivera
erickriverawrites@gmail.com
​
Harriet Bailey
missharrietandfriends@gmail.com
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Dummy book available upon request.
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