RITA, Erick and their pet dogs.
Rita Avila was inspired by her married life with TV director Erick Reyes to whip up a children’s book entitled “Si Erik Toothpick at Ana Taba.”
Rita, whose real name is Ana Marie Errea, confessed that the story is loosely based on their childhood. “When I was young, I was chubby; Erick was thin. I wanted to share a story about being judged and misjudged based on physical attributes.”
The book aims to teach kids to look beyond the superficial and value what is truly essential. “These are important lessons,” she says.
Second book
It’s her second work, following “Eight Ways to Comfort With Grace,” which she wrote after the passing of their infant son Jesu five years ago. Both books are published by St. Paul’s Publishing; “Si Erick …” will be released within the year.
When it comes to show biz projects, Rita says she and Erick, who directs ABS-CBN’s series, “E-Boy,” always consult each other. “It’s one of the perks of living with a fellow artist,” she said.