10 Outstanding Books by Filipino American Authors to Add to Your Reading List

Delve into the richness of literature by Filipino American authors as we unveil a marvelous tapestry of narratives that combine culture, history, and unique and diverse experiences.

With a mix of amusing anecdotes, these extraordinary books will surely capture your imagination. You’ll be left with an insatiable thirst for more.

Dating back to 1763, when the first Filipinos settled in the US, Filipino seafarers created a community on Saint-Malo, off the Louisiana coast. Since then, Filipino Americans have been essential to forming the American culture.

Top 10 Must-Read Books by Filipino American Authors

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From thought-provoking novels to heartwarming memoirs, this selection of 10 remarkable books portrays the unique outlook and exceptional talents that Filipino American authors contributed to the literary world.

America Is in the Heart by Carlos Bulosan

The first Filipino American novel was published in 1943. The gripping story portrays the bitterness of life through his shared experiences as a migrant laborer in the US.

You may also like: 7 Remarkable Filipino American Activists and Their Impact

When Elephants Dance by Tess Uriza Holthe

The novel tackles the tumultuous experiences of Filipinos under  Japanese conquerors. Set during World War II, the story will bring you back to how families thrived and survived during those dark times.

Dogeaters by Jessica Hagedorn

This definitive novel weaves several storylines of the encounter between America and the Philippines. It also delves into the two countries’ antagonism, mutual illusions, and enigmatic affection toward each other.

In the Country by Mia Alvar

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Featuring nine short stories about migration and family, this Filipino American author gives voice to Filipinos and Filipino Americans as they navigate life in their home country and the United States.

Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay

A modern-day story about guilt and grief, this heart-wrenching story will expose you to the complexities of corruption and politics in the Philippines. It revolves around a Filipino American teenager who aims to uncover the truth of his cousin’s murder.

Illustrado by Miguel Syjuco

This debut novel by Filipino author Miguel Syjico won the New York Times Notable Books of 2010. The story is about a young Filipino writer who returns to his homeland.

With the goal of investigating his mentors’s death, this book explores the complications of Filipino politics, society, and history.

The Mango Bride by Marivi Soliven

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A debut novel by Filipino author Soliven tackles the story of two Filipino women who come from different social stations and ended up living in San Francisco. The book delves into themes of identity, family, and immigration.

You may also like: 8 Filipino American Musicians Taking the Music World by Storm

Monsters by Lysley Tenorio

This heart-warming and humorous collection of stories will bring you into the world of superhero obsessives, B-movie actresses, and immigration. The Filipino American author also focuses on the topic of cultural differences.

The Body Papers by Grace Talusan

This Filipino American author’s memoir explores how identity and trauma are interwoven. She also tells how her Filipino American identity has molded her experiences of exclusion and belonging.

Smaller and Smaller Circles by F.H. Batacan

Best known for her mystery and crime fiction, this book is a thriller set in Manila. The story is about two Jesuit priests solving several murders of young boys in the city. This book has earned praise for its notable commentaries on corruption and poverty.

In conclusion, these ten exceptional books are a must-read if you want to explore Filipino authors’ vibrant literary world. By reading them, you will better understand and appreciate the significance of diverse cultures and experiences.