KWENTOYS by Budjette Tan and Brandie Tan [English,Softcover]

Step into a whimsical and mysterious world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. Written by the visionary Budjette Tan (creator of Trese) and vibrantly illustrated by Brandie Tan, KWENTOYS is a captivating collection of eight short stories that reveal the hidden lives of toys.

In this Young Adult anthology, every item in the catalog holds a secret. From trinkets imbued with supernatural quirks to playthings powered by futuristic technology, these are far more than mere objects—they are vessels of wonder and mystery. For Filipino Americans and fans of contemporary Philippine literature, this book offers a fresh, modern take on storytelling that blends the nostalgic joy of childhood with the sharp, imaginative edge of speculative fiction. Are you ready to play? Open the catalog and discover that the things we play with often have stories of their own to tell.

Why This is Cool!

• Modern Filipino Creative Excellence: Features work by Budjette Tan, a premier voice in Philippine graphic literature, connecting the diaspora to the best of modern Pinoy storytelling.
• Speculative Fiction Heritage: Blends traditional "kwento" (storytelling) with supernatural and sci-fi elements, reflecting the evolving landscape of Filipino pop culture.
• Young Adult Engagement: Provides a culturally resonant entry point for Fil-Am teens and young adults to explore themes of mystery and imagination through a Filipino lens.
• Artistic Collaboration: Showcases the unique synergy between Filipino writers and illustrators, making it a visual and narrative treat for collectors.
• Global Accessibility: Published by 19th Avenida, this title represents the new wave of Philippine publishing now making its way to the global stage.