Nurturing Filipino Heritage: Must-Read Children’s Books That Celebrate Culture

September 18, 2024

Kumusta Bookmates!

I was born in the US, but I lived in the Philippines for a year when I was between 4 and 5 years old. During that time, I was fully immersed in the language, and Filipino became my native tongue. However, when I returned to the States, I stopped speaking Filipino altogether. Fast forward to my 20s, when I visited the Philippines again—suddenly, the language came back to me. Granted, I had the vocabulary of a 5-year-old, but I still knew how to speak. That experience taught me the importance of learning a language while young. The brain absorbs so much more during those formative years, and the retention is incredible.

This realization is why I believe that introducing children to Filipino culture and language through books is so important. Books are not just stories; they are a gateway to understanding and retaining culture, values, and language, especially for kids growing up in the diaspora.

Why Filipino Children’s Books Matter

Cultural Connection: Books are a powerful way to connect children with their cultural heritage. Through stories based on Filipino songs and legends, kids can explore values like family, kindness, bravery, and community. Each book creates an opportunity for them to dive into the Filipino way of life, no matter where they live.
Learning Through Fun: With their colorful illustrations and engaging stories, these books make learning fun. From Bahay Kubo to Ibong Adarna, children will be captivated by the playful rhymes, bold visuals, and memorable characters that bring these stories to life.
Teaching Essential Values: Filipino children's books are also a great way to teach life lessons. Whether it’s about the value of humility in Tong Tong Pakitong-Kitong or the importance of perseverance in Ibong Adarna, these stories shape young minds while celebrating Filipino values.

Books to Begin Their Cultural Journey

Tong Tong Pakitong-Kitong

This playful tune from the Visayas region tells the story of a boastful crab and teaches kids about humility and storytelling through local folklore.

Atin Cu Pung Singsing

A Pampango song about a lost ring, this story introduces themes of tradition, love, and memory, making it a timeless way to teach kids the value of what we hold dear.

Paruparong Bukid

A delightful story of a butterfly fluttering through a field, Paruparong Bukid offers a glimpse into nature and traditional Filipino attire, perfect for children fascinated by the outdoors.

Bahay Kubo

This classic song is a joyful introduction to Filipino agriculture and village life. Through the simple nipa hut and the vegetables grown around it, kids learn about the importance of nature and self-sufficiency.

Ibong Adarna

An epic tale of a magical bird with healing songs, Ibong Adarna is a story full of adventure, courage, and family loyalty. It’s a perfect way to introduce kids to Filipino mythology.

Books Now Available in the US via HotTropiks.com

We’re excited to share that these Filipino children’s books are now available in the US through HotTropiks.com! Whether you're building your child’s home library or looking for a unique gift, these books will help foster a deep connection to Filipino culture, no matter where you live.

From traditional folk songs to classic legends, these books are perfect for introducing children to Filipino values, heritage, and traditions in a fun and engaging way.

Start Your Child’s Cultural Journey Today

By sharing these stories with your children, you're not only fostering a love of reading but also ensuring that they grow up with a strong understanding of their Filipino heritage. Ready to start this cultural journey? Visit HotTropiks.com to browse and order your books today.

Alright, now on to komiks news...

Seattle Filipino Community and Komiks Pop-up!

Filipino Komiks Seattle - Join us on Sunday, September 29, 2024, from 1-5 PM at Outsider Comics in Fremont, Seattle! This is our first time in Seattle, and we’re excited to meet the komiks community. Don’t miss a special Filipino Komiks Show & Tell by Angelo, plus a showcase of amazing Filipino and Southeast Asian comics and books.

📍Location: Outsider Comics, 223 N. 36th St., Seattle, WA. 
😷 Facemasks required for ages 3+ (free masks available).