Ricky Stands Tall: A story about heart, friendship, and never giving up

Ricky may be the smallest kid on the field, but he has the biggest heart.

He loves baseball, basketball, and taekwondo—and while other kids may be bigger and stronger, Ricky practices harder than anyone else. With the unwavering support of his parents, Rose and Rich, and the loyalty of his best friends, Charles and David, Ricky refuses to let being “the small kid” define who he is.

Still, it’s not always easy.

Ricky faces teasing and bullying from kids who underestimate him. Some days are tough. Some moments shake his confidence. But Ricky keeps showing up. He keeps trying. And with every swing, every shot, and every step forward, he begins to discover something powerful:

Being small doesn’t mean you can’t stand tall and that heart beats size.

Perfect for fans of Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon and Salt in His Shoes, Ricky Stands Tall is an inspiring story that teaches kids about resilience, self-belief, and the importance of having people in your corner.

Rick Alessandri is an executive recruiter specializing in the sports, media, and technology industries, where he partners with some of the most innovative companies and leaders shaping the future of sports. Over the course of his career, he has built a reputation for connecting great talent with great opportunities and for understanding what drives people to succeed at the highest levels. Prior to becoming an executive recruiter Rick was a media executive at both ESPN and Univision.

Ricky Stands Tall marks Rick’s debut as a children’s author, inspired by his passion for storytelling and his belief that confidence, resilience, and character matter far more than size or stature. Through Ricky’s journey, Rick hopes to empower young readers to embrace who they are, stand up for themselves and others, and never stop pursuing what they love. Any resemblance to the author to Ricky is completely intentional.

Rick lives in New Jersey with his wife Roxanne, where he enjoys spending time with his kids, Krista, Erica and Maxwell, playing pickleball, and praying for New York Mets and New York Jets World Championships.