our story

Artist, Rodrigo Bastos Didier and actress, Evangeline Lilly are a very unlikely pair, which might be why their books are so special. They met over Facebook when Rodrigo sent Evangeline fan art for her first published children’s book, The Squickerwonkers. She replied to his beautiful interpretation with praise and they never spoke again. Until…

A few years later, Evangeline was looking for a new illustrator for her continuation of the book into a series, and Rodrigo was poised and ready. He helped to coordinate Evangeline’s participation in the first ever CCXP (Brazil Comic Con). When she was there, he arranged to meet her…and brought his portfolio.

“I was looking for someone who could bring more whimsy to the dark and naughty series, and Rodrigo’s nature was so soft and thoughtful, I knew he was the man for the job.” - EL

The pair spent the next 8 months working together to create what is now the signature art style of their to-be 20-book children’s series, The Squickerwonkers. (If you’re wondering how to pronounce it, it’s 100% pheonetic.)

Together, they have since published two hard-cover books, and Evangeline has produced five audio books (avail on Audible and iTunes).

Currently they are working on The Squickerwonkers, Act 3: The Demise of Andy the Arrogant, and hope to release this title in 2023.

The Squickewonkers stories are spooky and dark, with comedy and whimsy baked in. They are very consciously designed to challenge their young readers to think about some of the deeper and more philosophical parts of being alive: where we struggle and what we do when we realize the places we struggle.

“I want these books to stimulate very meaningful conversations with kids about their uglier bits. I hope they open up to parents and teachers about their fears, insecurities and weaknesses, and visa versa, after reading the stories together (or separately). But, ultimately, they are supposed to be silly, irreverent and naughty fun. Rodrigo’s art will delight and overwhelm the senses and get them to pay attention to the details and look deeper.

These are cautionary tales for modern day brats…and I’ve got two of ‘em!” - EL