Disney is publishing a Filipino created comic book!

Filipino comic books and Disney may seem like an unlikely pair, but the world of comics knows no bounds when it comes to storytelling and cultural representation. Enter Tori Tadiar, a talented Filipina author-illustrator who is forging connections between Filipino culture and the Disney universe through her remarkable work. In this article, we delve into Tori Tadiar's journey as a comic book creator and her remarkable book "Twinkle, Twinkle," now available in the USA through Hot Tropiks.

Tori Tadiar, a 29-year-old IT professional by day and comic book author-artist by night, has a deep passion for Filipino culture and a desire to share it with the world. Growing up, she consumed a variety of media inspired by Western and East Asian cultures, but she yearned for stories rooted in her own heritage. Her journey into the world of comics became a powerful vehicle for cultural representation.

One of Tori's most exciting projects is her graphic novel series, "Highsummer." It's a unique blend of Filipino high school life and the enchanting world of Philippine mythology. In "Highsummer," the protagonist, Mika, possesses the extraordinary ability to summon gods and creatures from Philippine folklore. Through Mika's adventures, Tori not only celebrates her culture but also aims to introduce younger generations to the rich tapestry of Philippine mythology.

Tori's dedication and talent caught the attention of Disney-Hyperion Books, the publisher behind the bestselling Percy Jackson series. Disney-Hyperion saw the potential in Tori's work and offered to publish "Highsummer." For Tori, this was a dream come true, as she had always aspired to work with Disney in some capacity. The collaboration reaffirmed the power of pursuing childhood dreams.

Before "Highsummer," Tori had already made her mark in the world of Filipino comics. She self-published "SAGALA," a Filipiniana fantasy comic set in an alternate universe during the Spanish colonial era. The comic's characters drew inspiration from timeless Filipiniana clothing, reflecting an integral part of Philippine culture. "SAGALA" also featured strong female characters, adding depth and diversity to Tori's storytelling.

Additionally, Tori's work extended to "Twinkle, Twinkle," a project that captured the essence of 1930s Manila with an Art Deco aesthetic. This comic revolves around Filipino twins, Alta and Signa, who use their magical abilities to catch falling stars but find themselves entangled in unforeseen circumstances.

The exciting news is that "Twinkle, Twinkle" is now available in the USA through Hot Tropiks. This award-winning comic book captures the nostalgia of 1930s Manila while weaving a tale of magic and adventure. It's a testament to Tori Tadiar's ability to bridge the gap between Filipino culture and the international comic book market.

Tori Tadiar's journey in the world of comics exemplifies the power of storytelling and cultural representation. Her work not only celebrates Philippine culture but also opens doors for other Filipino comic artists to share their unique narratives with the world. As Filipino comic books continue to gain recognition and Disney-Hyperion lends its support, we can anticipate a new era of diverse and enriching stories that reflect the beauty and complexity of Filipino culture.