8 Brilliant Filipino Storybooks

(Part 3 of 16 BOOKS I’LL FORCE* MY KID TO READ)

 

My little girl will grow up with these books. And I am so excited for her! She’ll eventually have her own favourites, but for now I’ll read her these 8 amazing storybooks.

 

Carangcal: Ang Bayaning Isang Dangkal

Story by Rene Villanueva

Illustration by Kora Dandan- Albano

Published by Lampara Books

This retelling is a proof that we have a wealth of folk tales we can tap. The first of a series, all Carangcal books carry Kora Albano’s exceptional illustrations. It is obvious that she put a lot of work, creativity and individuality in every page. It was written by Rene Villanueva and he’s got his stamp on it. The story is funny, fantastic but believable. Rene is a prolific writer who never runs out of ideas. And even when the story is a retelling, he manages to give it a new spin. You always end up rooting for the character, be it a small hero, a stray dog or a paper kid. 

Si Isem sa Bayang Bawal Tumawa

Story by Eugene Evasco

Illustration by John Crisostomo

Published by Lampara Books

Isem is an Iluko word that means smile. As an Ilocano, I immediately bought the book when I read the title. And it did not disappoint. Eugene is another favourite author who amazingly spews out stories like a shoe factory. And all the stories pass quality check, even exceeds them. That's why I've been hoarding all his books since Isem. This hilarious and quirky story is on the top of my list among his works, right next to Sampung Bukitkit and Anina ng mga Alon. The illustrations are impressive--Rupanget's face is really rupanget! That's face and ugly in ilocano, haha.

La-on and the 7 Headed Dragon

Story by Gabby Lee and Marcy Dans Lee

Illustration by Marcy Dans Lee

Published by Adarna House

A wonderful retelling of a Negrense legend! And the illustrations are very detailed, amusing and original. It’s done in verses, action-packed and humorous. There is this one page where the belly of the dragon is shown and it is populated with posters and ads for tubero and other services usually posted on street lamps.

Ang Pambihirang Sombrero

Story and Illustrations by Jomike Tejido

Published by Adarna House

A book by an author-illustrator I admire. You have to read his other books, too— from the early Dindo Pundido to the most recent Jepoy Jeep series. His work is consistently good. I also like his collaborations with his wife, Haraya (i have 10 Polka-dots Zebras) . The whole book is an exercise for the imagination and I love that it also introduces community workers.

Mister Beetle’s Many Rooms

Story and Illustrations by Robert Magnuson

Published by Adarna House

Another great author-illustrator! I consider Robert as the Philippines’ Dr. Seuss. The story is lyrical and meanders on science and friendship. Mr. Beetle is just adorable, so are his neighbors. There is a sequel to this title that is as good (Mr. Beetle's Special Guitar ). His Kuting Magiting board books are also impressive and appealing to kids (and adults too!).

The Little Girl in a Box

Story by Felinda Bagas

Illustration by Aldy Aguirre

Published by Adarna House

This book is just beautiful. The story brings you to places, in a box, with the little girl. The tale is seamless, the lovely illustrations done in watercolor. You know you are about to encounter a special book once you hold it in your hand. And more importantly, it talks about an unpopular topic— adoption. This book is beautiful and powerful. It can change how we look at things. 

SOL

Story by Agay Llanera

Illustration by Farley Del Rosario

Published by Canvas

I first read this legend when the title was Jealous Moon. Now I am holding a charming book, whimsically illustrated but still the same strong narrative. It touches on music, on pride, on love. Every page, the words and the art works seize the reader. It pulls you into the story until you finish, entranced and pleasantly surprised. If you love words and how they transform into a brilliant story when strung together, you should read more of Agay's works. Choc Chips Hips, Once Upon A player and Vintage Love are pure <3.

Some Women

Story by Bunny Ty

Book Design by Beaulah Taguiwalo

Published by Anvil

It’s a poetry book, a feminist book and an art book rolled into one. It’s a handy introduction, not just to world and Philippine visual art but also to the meaning of true beauty. I love that every page carries one or two obra and just a line or two of the poem.