Kumusta, Bookmates!

As we focus on expanding our online store this month, we’re also gearing up for an exciting series of pop-up events across the West Coast in the coming months.

We’re eager to explore new cities and states—maybe Portland, the CA Central Valley, Seattle?

If you have any leads on potential partners, stores, or venues we could collaborate with, please let us know!

Here’s what’s on our schedule so far:

• Saturday, August 31 - The Pop-Hop in Highland Park, Los Angeles
• Saturday, September 14, 2024, 10 AM - 4 PM - National City Public Library, National City, CA, for the Fil-Am Creator Con in San Diego
• October - Event in San Francisco (details to follow)

We’re also hoping to add a Las Vegas stop to the lineup—stay tuned for more updates on that. Plus, we might even make a trip back to Manila for MIBF!

In other exciting news, we’re thrilled to announce that we’re working on publishing our first book. More details will be shared soon, along with the arrival of our latest shipment, Fresh off the Boat!

Thanks for your continued support and for being part of our journey!

Salamat,
Nadine + Angelo

 

Book Spotlight This Week

Aklas is a gripping graphic novel set in a dystopian future where a group of ordinary citizens rise against a corrupt regime. Led by a determined protagonist with a haunting past, they fight for freedom and justice against overwhelming odds.

Hailing from the Filipino community in Canada, this edition is not just a tale of rebellion but a celebration of cultural pride and resilience. With stunning artwork and powerful themes of resistance and identity, Aklas is a must-read that resonates deeply with the Filipino experience.

 

 

Filipino Children’s Books That Teach Culture

• Magtanim Ay Di Biro
  This charming book introduces children to the Filipino folk song about the joys and challenges of farming. With engaging illustrations and rhythmic text, it's a wonderful way to teach kids about the importance of hard work and nature in Filipino culture.

• My Name is Morena by Ayn Bernos
  Celebrate Filipino identity and skin color with this bilingual book. It’s a beautiful affirmation of self-love and cultural pride, perfect for children growing up in diverse communities.

• Maghapon Namin ni Nanay
  Explore the bond between mother and child through a day in their life. This book captures the essence of Filipino family values, emphasizing the importance of love and care in everyday moments.

• Penpen de Sarapen
  Introduce your child to traditional Filipino nursery rhymes with this collection. It's a nostalgic journey for parents and a fun, musical learning experience for kids.

• Tong Tong Pakitong Kitong
  Another fantastic collection of Filipino nursery rhymes that will immerse your child in the musical heritage of the Philippines. These rhymes are both educational and entertaining.

 

Graphic Novels Based on Philippine History

• Alandal by Jay Ignacio and Alex Niño
  Journey to 18th-century Philippines with Sabina, a young girl of Spanish descent. Abducted by pirates, she uncovers her true heritage and meets the enigmatic swordsman, Alandal, in a tale of adventure and self-discovery.

• Noli Me Tangere by D.G. Dumaraos and Leo Miranda
  Experience José Rizal's classic novel adapted into a compelling comic format. This faithful rendition delves deep into the roots of Filipino nationalism under Spanish colonial rule.

• El Indio by Francisco V. Coching
  Dive into Francisco V. Coching's masterpiece. Follow Fernando, a young mestizo, as he returns to the Philippines in search of his father, joining a rebel group and inheriting the iconic salakot of the outlaw, Sabas.

• Dasig by Lola, Kabuay, Alfonso, Ira, Aquilizan
  Follow the journey of a young warrior-in-training as she grapples with inner doubts and searches for her true purpose. Guided by her mentor, the Datu, Dasig must confront her fears as a mysterious threat looms.

• 12:01 by Russell Molina and Kajo Baldisimo
  Set during Martial Law, this story captures a moment of inadvertent rebellion against curfew. A poignant reflection on freedom, defiance, and the spirit of the Filipino people.