Upcoming children’s book befriends the eerie side of Philippine folklore

Upcoming children’s book ‘The Amazing Beasts of Philippine Mythology’ explores the eerie side of Philippine folklore | Photo from Tuttle Publishing’s website

Filipinos have explored various outlets and platforms to keep Philippine folklore alive. From textbooks to fantastical retellings, they’ve added educational and artistic elements to legends, epics, and origin stories of cultural artifacts. Mythical creatures and classic characters have also been brought to life in TV shows, films, and video games.

With all the creative options, there’s no right or wrong way to become well-versed in the country’s folktales. For starters, the vast realm of Philippine mythology isn’t limited to gods, goddesses, and their quests across the islands.

Take it from the Ang Ink Artists Collective who’ll give our own monsters and menacing spirits the spotlight in their upcoming children’s book, “The Amazing Beasts of Philippine Mythology.”

The story’s colorful illustrations and comedic dialogue will convince Pinoy fantasy enthusiasts of all ages that our own ghosts and ghouls deserve love, too.

Get an education in Philippine folklore with ‘The Amazing Beasts of Philippine Mythology’ | Photo from Tuttle Publishing’s website

Just because Philippine mythology is ancient doesn’t mean it can’t be reimagined with present-day wit. In “Amazing Beasts,” award-winning writers and illustrators May Tobias-Papa and Liza Flores acquaint readers with the supernatural world of 56 outlandish creatures that reside in the country’s secluded forests, burrows, and caves. There are unique characters for everyone to love, befriend, and associate themselves with— from shapeshifting goblins to chaotic vampires. 

Among the magical creatures is the tiktik, which stealthily preys on infants, pregnant women, and the elderly. Another is the buso, which hastily digs up fresh corpses in cemeteries. The book also features the mandurugo, a soul-sucking monster that targets unsuspecting sleepers.

If you haven’t heard of these peculiar names before, “Amazing Beasts” helps you see them in a harmless and wholesome light. 

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Over 29 illustrators from The Ang Ink Artists Collective contributed to “Amazing Beasts.” As a team, the collective has been dedicated to children’s illustration since 1991. 

To be released on Mar. 12, “Amazing Beasts” is the fruit of their shared goal to make Filipino fantasy stories more accessible and appreciated among the younger generation.