Today’s Author Spotlight features Gary Rivera, the imaginative writer behind the middle-grade adventure series that began with “The Lunch Money Treasure” and continues with “The Reluctant Bully”. Rivera’s stories weave friendship, family, and courage into relatable adventures that inspire readers of all ages to believe that even the impossible is possible.
Meet the Author
Gary Rivera is a father of two and the author of “The Lunch Money Treasure” and its sequel, “The Reluctant Bully”. He resides in Florida and draws inspiration from both his own childhood and the experiences of his children. Gary’s writing blends adventure and empathy, with an emphasis on understanding human behavior and emotional growth. As a parent, he hopes to encourage young readers to see beyond their present circumstances and believe in the possibility of a brighter future.
About the Book
The Reluctant Bully continues the story of Smoochie, an impressionable eleven-year-old navigating friendship, family, and the complex realities of growing up. After her adventure in “The Lunch Money Treasure”, Smoochie faces new challenges—this time centered around bullying, identity, and forgiveness. When lives collide between three boys raised in different homes, Smoochie finds herself trying to help her brother and a new friend while managing her own school struggles. The story offers humor, mystery, and heartfelt lessons about empathy and courage.
Inspiration Behind the Book
Rivera always intended for “The Lunch Money Treasure” to be the first in a trilogy. He wanted “The Reluctant Bully” to go deeper; to explore why bullies become bullies and how compassion can change lives. Many of the characters’ experiences were inspired by Rivera’s own childhood and the stories he created for his children. The author recalls a quote that shaped his outlook: “The difference between a dream and a reality is a decision.” That belief forms the heart of Smoochie’s journey.
Why Readers Love It
Readers connect with “The Reluctant Bully” for its balance of fun, adventure, and emotional depth. Rivera’s storytelling captures the innocence and honesty of childhood while offering meaningful lessons about empathy, forgiveness, and hope. Parents and teachers appreciate how the story encourages discussions around bullying and kindness without ever feeling preachy. Young readers love the relatable characters, humor, and sense of discovery.
Who Should Read It
“The Reluctant Bully” is ideal for readers aged 8–12 who enjoy realistic fiction with adventure and heart. It’s a great choice for classroom reading, family discussions, and school libraries looking to promote empathy and resilience. Educators and parents will find it especially valuable for opening conversations about friendship, conflict resolution, and self-worth.
Looking Ahead
As Rivera looks ahead to completing the Smoochie trilogy, he continues to focus on telling stories that empower young readers to see the best in themselves and others. His next project promises to build on the emotional groundwork of “The Reluctant Bully”, delivering a satisfying conclusion filled with growth, courage, and heart.
Where to Find It
“The Reluctant Bully” is available in paperback and eBook formats with worldwide distribution through Outskirts Press (for a significant discount), Ingram, OverDrive, Baker & Taylor, and of course Amazon! Readers can follow Gary Rivera’s updates and connect with him online through his author page at Outskirts Press or Goodreads. His goal was to balance fiction with elements inspired by real human behavior and psychological complexity.
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This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road.”