Kim’s Newly Released Books 2025

Hello, friends, and readers. It’s been three months since I last posted here in WordPress. I hope you still remember me. I didn’t have any 2024 yearend review because I finished the year writing and revising a manuscript for my beloved publisher. I know that there is no valid excuse, but yeah, just sharing.

I am typing this blog while enjoying my Iced Mocha in Panglao, Bohol. I finally have the inspiration to write a blog about my recent books. But, I am praying to cultivate discipline in writing blogs for this year. Anyways, I would like to share to you that I have recently released my books! Paghilom Harbound, Ang Kampana sa Pagkatha/Iska Dipasupil Thesis Edition, and Paano Mag-move on? Second edition.

Paghilom was first written and self-published in 2022. It was published by Lifebooks in 2023, and recently, Lifebooks released its hardbound. What a great way to start the year, right? I received its copy last January. The hardbound version is so cute!

I am still thrilled to share that I have received my copy of UP Likhaan Institute of Creative Writing Special Issue, featuring my thesis, Ang Kampana sa Pagkatha, Si Iska Dipasupil at ang Nawawalang Kampana. This was written in 2022. I defended it online during the pandemic season.

Photo from: Nakita ko sa Booksale Pero Hindi ko Binili Facebook Page

Paano Mag-move On? Second Edition has been released by Lifebooks, too. This book was first published by St. Paul’s in 2016. They gave back the rights to the book after some time. I am happy with the new cover of Paano Mag-move On? as it really resonates the message of the book. Also, this book is already updated. I revised the parts that need to be updated since it was written more than ten years ago. I am grateful to Lifebooks for accepting this manuscript.

Moreover, my publisher has also a promo for my three books. Paano Mag-move On? is not the third book for my Pagpag Series ha. But if you are considering to read my books, you may purchase here.

I am writing this post with a grateful heart. Swear. I never thought of achieving these milestones. Please continue praying for me that I may use my talent to serve other people. Hehe! 🙂 More books to come! <3

My Pending Book Reviews

I have read a lot of books for the month of April. I just don’t have the time to post it here. (Or am I just making excuses?)

Here are some of the Filipino books I’ve read. Most of these books are purchased during the Philippine Book Festival 2024. Some books are given for free.

Ang Bangin sa Ilalim ng Ating mga Paa ni Ronaldo S. Vivo Jr.

It’s my first time reading Filipino Crime Fiction, and I must say, the narration and choice of words are superb and unrestrained. 😅 The description of the theme is also striking. The book is just so timely. It’s just so sad that some scenes in the book are the realities in our country. This book is good for series adaptation.

Maliit na Bagay lang ang Nakapupuwing ni Rommel Rodriguez

This book includes short stories about origins and legends. Sir Rommel’s storytelling is so effective. Truly fitting for short stories and narratives. Fleeting, yet profound. I didn’t finish this book in one sitting because reading more than five short stories without a break is just overwhelming for me.

Mula sa Kilometer Zero of Josue Mapagdalita

The author of this book gave free ebook version of his book. I like the overarching theme of the book. All short stories here are remarkable and unique in their own ways. The first story started at Kilometer Zero –which is in Roxas, Ermita Manila.

Then, as each story unfold, the next titles of the chapter are all names of places. I like how the short stories here are written. Short yet striking. However, for me, reading short stories straight could be really tiring. I didn’t finish this book in one sitting as well. But I do love the theme and the ‘atake’ of this book. The author is so kind too! I think that makes the overall reading experience fun.

Alagwa (Poetry Anthology of Teddy, Lean, Allan, and Beth)

The imagery and metaphors in the poems are subtle but carry weighty themes. All poems here paint vivid pictures about a writer’s life, and a poet’s perspective about the world. You’ll find yourself staring blankly at some poems while reading it. The collaboration between the authors in this anthology is just so remarkable. From light to heavy poetry, all of their poems are truly a joy to read.

I’ve also read the poetry books Sansaglit and Pasakalye written by Lean. These poetry books are light and fun to read despite some of the heavy themes and scenarios it tackle.

Takeaways:

In order for me to finish reading a book, I need to write all the books I’m planning to read on a checklist. I wrote these books on a small piece of paper and posted it at my work station. This post-it reminded me not to procrastinate and scroll different apps mindlessly.

I hope to read more Filipino books again and write reviews.

Ikaw? What’s the last Filipino book you’ve read?

Philippine Book Festival 2024

My friends and I attended the Philippine Book Festival last April 28, 2024, Sunday. It was the last day and the only day that we are available. Our travel time going there was less than an hour. Thanks to the efficient Grab driver, and the highway which made our trip convenient. (Or maybe because it was Sunday.) We arrived around 9am, just in time for the events that we were looking forward.

At the Philippine Book Festival 2024, one of the highlights for me was supporting the works of Filipino authors. A remarkable memory for me was visiting the booth of a lolo distributing flyers for his wife’s book. We saw this lolo twice, and we couldn’t be more in awe, seeing a guy promoting his wife’s book. We saw his wife’s book and it was about history.

It was also delightful to interview and converse with some authors. We met Sir Ron Camino who wrote the popular poetry book, Mga Tala at Tula. We also crossed paths with Doc Ron Baticulon who we met last MIBF 2023. We also spotted the queue for Sir Ronaldo S. Vivo. I also saw Sir Edgar Samar, the author of the Janus Silang series and one of my mentors when I was writing my thesis. We also took some photos with Sir Joselito Delos Reyes at the UST Publishing booth.

Another enjoyable moment was encountering Sir Ricky Lee, who was incredibly down-to-earth and willing to take photos. His kindness is really admirable. He never stopped smiling during that time. I also saw my favorite booktoker and he’s so approachable.

We also noticed some authors launching their zines. Among them were four friends who decided to publish their zine, titled “Alagwa”. Their work was truly captivating and affordable at 200php. I also bought three more poetry books from one of the authors.

My book haul includes two comic books, and a self-help book from Summit Media, and 3 poetry books. The rest of our stay there was just eating lots of tasty Filipino food.

Overall, it was just a joyous experience! Looking forward to attend PBF next year.

Some Days You Can’t Save Them All Book Review

I have been in a reading slump for the previous months. What kept me busy was the Korean drama series that I have been watching. But after purchasing books during Manila International Book Fair 2023, I decided to pick up a book and dedicated time to reading it.

The first book that I have decided to read is the non-fiction book written by Dr. Ronnie Baticulon, Some Days You Can’t Save Them All. Doc Ron is a pediatric neurosurgeon, teacher, and writer. He became a fellow of the 58th UP National Writers Workshop. He currently works as an associate professor at the UP College of Medicine. When we met him during his book signing, he is so kind and humble. He asked questions to us before signing our books. Hehe.

The book cover says a lot to what the collection of essays is all about. Its refreshing shade of blue looks calming, and pleasant. The illustrations on the cover are so meaningful. Each icon truly represents something about the essays in the book. In short, maganda.

Some Days You Can’t Save Them All contains personal anecdotes, and stories about his patients. He has written each essay as if he weaves the emotional rollercoaster of life in a hospital. His medical tales will surely make you cry or laugh. His collection contains his stories about his journey from medical school to becoming a full-fledged doctor. He has deliberately described his humble beginnings.

What I love most about this book is his skill in humanizing the medical profession. He has written essays about loss, pain, and the saddest stories in the corner of a ward. But at the same time, he manages to balance those kinds of stories with stories of success, good news, and happy endings.

His remarkable essay for me is Where I Got Extra Money When I Was A Medical Student. He said:

As hard as it may seem to believe during the most difficult of times, there is never a shortness of kindness in this world.
Dr. Ronnie Baticulon, Some Days You Can’t Save Them All

Despite the sad reality that the medical scene in the Philippines portrays, some people are still willing to help. In this essay, he mentioned the people who generously lend him a hand when he was a student. After reading this line, I paused from reading a book and tried to absorb this line. Nakakatulala lang talaga.

Yes, there will still be people who are willing to help. Someone out there will help. It may be difficult to believe, but this is possible, I guess. 🙂

My Favorite Lines from the Book

I survived by taking things one day at a time.
Dr. Ronnie Baticulon, Some Days You Can’t Save Them All

I took this line by heart. I totally agree that we could still succeed by taking things one day at a time. I am used to rushing things. I always wanted to finish the tasks on my list. But this line reminded me to slow down, and be more relaxed.

Everybody is in such a hurry to achieve something or become someone, that we forget to be thankful for what we have in the now. We are always where we are meant to be.
Dr. Ronnie Baticulon, Some Days You Can’t Save Them All

Hehe. The message is somehow the same with the first line. This line is found at the last pages of the book. I believe it is also a gentle reminder for us to be grateful for what is happening at the moment.

I only have this advice to give: First, never settle for anything less. … And second, stay honest.
Dr. Ronnie Baticulon, Some Days You Can’t Save Them All

It is a good reminder for me–that despite what’s happening around me, I should continue producing quality outputs and never be satisfied with the mediocre. It inspires me to keep going and to keep creating something meaningful.

My Final Verdict

5/5! This book is beautifully written, heartwarming, and truly engaging collection of essays that will leave a mark in your heart. The essays here contain reminders that will make you reflect on the incredible human connection. Doc Ron is so kind and humble in person, too. Plus 5 stars!

Read this, please! 🙂

Xiu Yang: Self-Cultivation for a Happier, Healthier and Balanced Life

This book is simple yet it is filled with wisdom that allows its reader to reflect about their lives. Xiu Yang is an interesting self-help book that is calm to read. It sounds like a friend who sits with you at the park, looking at the people who pass by.

I got this book in Lazada during the Big Bad Wolf sale. This is my second Chinese self-help book. I’ve also read Yang Sheng: The Art of Chinese Self-Healing, and I must say I love these ideas and beliefs.

This book contains practical tips on how to cultivate oneself to be happy, healthy, and obtain a balance life. I love how these tips are simple. These tips are attainable.

According to the author, Xiu Yang’s central aim is to help remind not our faults, but our potential to experience a true sense of balance and well-being.

Xiu means to cultivate. Yang means to nurture. And Xin means heat.

Xiu Yang values the quality rather than the process.

In the first chapters of the book, she shared the long-term support for our happiness. There has to be knowledge, compassion, wisdom, and insight. These words seem to be simple but the book elaborated how these concepts are crucial to happiness.

What I loved the most is her idea about compassion. She said,

“When you cultivate compassion, you begin to see the things that poison your mind or heart are just visitors, rather than permanent residents.”
Mimi Kuo-Deemer, Xiu Yang

I strongly agree to this concept. I love how the author reminds us that the trials we see are only temporary, not permanent. I will write this quote on my board for sure.

When it comes to health, she clearly stated that nutrition, body clock, and exercise are important. We should align certain rhythms with the patterns found in the natural world.

She stated how our body replenishes for a specific time in a day. She has this whole cycle about our body clock. She also described what are the activities that should be done by that time. Example, wake up between 5:00am-7:00am, and do some meditation, and walking.

Moreover, she also cited the things that we should eat. She gave suggestions related to exercising as well. She included poses, and basic movements that help in breathing, and qi flowing.

Lastly, to have a balanced mind, one has to handle emotions, too. She cited Mindfulness of Emotion by Michelle McDonald.

R – Recognize your emotion (label or name it)

A – Allow (Accept it, not fix)

I – Investigate (Be curious how this emotions feels in your body.)

N – Not Personal/ Non-Identification (This emotion does not define you.)

This acronym is a helpful mindset to those who are struggling in handling their emotions. This could be of help, of course, with proper guidance.

“The ancient Chinese believed that the heart’s natural capacity was like the midday sun: radiant, warming, spacious, and expansive. They believe that the heart supports our life and infuses it with qualities that make us complete as human beings.”
Mimi Kuo-Deemer, Xiu Yang

In conclusion, I love how everything is described in this book. It is calming, and relaxing. It reminds people to maintain balance, and see the extraordinary in every little thing.

I hope you give this book a try. 🙂

Why I love Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life

This is a super late book review about Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. This has been in my cart for some months. I’ve decided to buy it as a gift for myself.

“Be led by your curiosity and keep busy doing things that fill you with meaning and happiness.” 🥰

What’s your Ikigai? What is something that gives you meaning and happiness?
This book is a must-read. This book helps its readers to fully understand their reason for living by knowing their ikigai.

Ikigai does not have to be grand. Sometimes, it could be the simplest thing in life, and that is okay. It differs from one person to another.

This book also gives an overview about the Japanese secret to a long and happy life. The authors are so specific in their explanation. They included diet, exercise, and way of living. They share how people in a certain place in Japan live longer than others.

Major takeaways from Ikigai

Each setback is an opportunity to grow.
Worrying about things that are beyond our control accomplishes nothing.
It is not what happens to you, but how you react that matters -Epicletus
Ikigai is the reason why we get up every morning.
Once you discover your ikigai, pursuing and nurturing it everyday will bring meaning to your life.

Have you read this book? Share your favorite quotes, too. Here’s mine.

This is the sign that you should grab a copy of this book. Go read it, friends. 🙂

Aishite imasu ni Romulo P. Baquiran Book Review

Isinulat ni Sir Romulo P. Baquiran ang Aishite imasu: Mga Dagling Sanaysay sa Danas-Japan ang mga sanaysay rito noong siya ay nagturo ng Wikang Filipino sa Japan noong 2014-2017. Inilathala naman ito ng UP Press ngayong 2021.

Bakit mo ito kailangang basahin?

Maraming dahilan para basahin mo ang librong ito. Una, basahin mo ito dahil maraming magandang paglalarawan sa Japan ang nilalaman ng akdang ito.

May isang kabanata na kung saan, malinaw na nailarawan sa isip ko ang itsura ng cherry blossoms at ang pakiramdam ng mga naroon sa eksenang iyon. Banayad ang mga naratibo. Parang nasa Japan ka na rin.

Basahin mo ito dahil napaka-natural, at totoo ng pagsusulat ni Sir Joey. Walang paglilimita sa mga danas, nakakatawa man o nakakahiya, na ikinuwento sa akdang ito. Matututo, matatawa, at makakaramdam ka ng lungkot sa mga sanaysay.

Napakaganda ng akdang ito. Parang kaibigan ka ni Sir Joey at personal ka niyang dinala sa iba’t ibang lugar sa Japan. Ipakikita niya sa’yo ang pagkain, teknolohiya, bisikleta, at ang transportasyon sa Japan. Ipakikilala ka rin niya sa mga naging kaibigan at mga nakasalubong niya sa lugar na ito.

Pwede mo pa ring bilhin ang aklat na ito sa Shopee. 🙂

Dead Balagtas Tomo 1: Mga Sayaw ng Dagat at Lupa

I am not into graphics novel or comics but I had fun reading Dead Balagtas Tomo 1: Mga Sayaw ng Dagat at Lupa. This graphic novel won the 2018 Madrigal-Gonzales Best First Book Award and 2018 National Book Award for Best Graphic Literature and Best Book Design! (Well-deserved, Ms. author!)

There are three reasons why I enjoyed reading this book.

This book is a combination of science, folktale, and contemporary plot with social relevance. The first few pages feature the creation myth. This is narrated and combined with a modern story in the present. The author perfectly narrates the myth and modern story. Flawless. This has also science-related citations that make the story more interesting.

I also like this book because of the book design. It features traditional patterns that are all amazing. The print, patterns, and color are drawn with passion and effort as in. All of the pages are colored and it is worth the ink. Really.

Lastly, I love this book because it makes its readers aware of some social relevant issues like: labor law, women’s rights, LGBT’s role in the society, how migration affects people, the traffic, and even the technology. Hay. I love the first chapter which is about a boy and a girl who separated way because of you know, dreams. That plot may seem ordinary but the way the author delivered that story is extraordinary. Super.

Everybody should read this book. But, it is quite costly. It is 550, but I got it from Shopee for 365, thanks to the points, discounts, and promos. I had second thoughts of buying it but I think the price is worth it. It is fully covered with bubble wrap when it arrived.

This book is highly recommended. Grab a copy now. SUPER GANDA. PERIOD.

If I Stay & Where She Went Book Review

Gayle Forman’s novels If I Stay and Where She Went described the two sides occurred in a love story—that not all hero and heroines can easily had their happy ending. These novels comprised of two remarkable characters who were able to prove that love wasn’t just a word but it’s an everlasting faith between two individuals.

The first book, If I Stay, made me wonder what the story was all about. The way how Mia described her situation after the accident had the touch of her innocence. Moreover, it also tackled how teenagers sees life in their own perspective. The timeline was not too slow for me. In fact, it made me turn each page curiously. Lessons about life were discussed. It gave me a complete definition that the Mia’s life didn’t only surround with Adam—it actually surrounded his family and friends.

The sequel, Where She Went, used Adam’s point of view. The masculine narration of the novel convinced me that the writer was able to perfectly used this kind of POV. I was sure that I’d fallen in love with Adam and everything about him—his personality, his charm, and of course, his talent, singing. He’s my number one rock star. The lines he wrote struck me. All of the lines from the novel were perfectly written. Genius was the author for writing these romantic and meaningful lines. The meaning behind the song complemented every chapter. I adored the name of the album, Collateral Damage, and all of its songs. I wished that these songs would had its own tune.

I am looking forward to If I Stay movie adaptation. The novel’s unique twists and climax make me more excited than I used to. Hence, I wish that the producers will give justice to its movie.

My favorite line from the book Where She Went is:

Letting go. Everyone talks about it like it’s the easiest thing.

13 Lessons From 13 Reasons Why

13 Lessons I Learned from 13 Reasons Why

Be good to other people.
Motivate the weak, and even the strong.
Nourish people with good words.
Always, always wear a smile.
Be ready to listen.
Learn to keep a secret.
Being kind is free. Do it.
Never hesitate to offer help.
Be careful with your words.
Say sorry, and be true to it.
Be sensitive.
Love. Love. Love.
Open your heart.

After spending the whole day reading 13 Reasons Why, I’ve really learned a lot of things. Definitely, this book is about the suicidal problems occurring about the teenagers. But the whole book doesn’t stop on that. It discussed friendship, infatuation, and expectations. A lot of teenagers, I believe, experience the same things. And the author has made it possible to describe everything in this book.

Reading this book is truly breathtaking. I cannot afford to read this book at night for it thrills me a lot. The narration, and delivery of lines are perfect. It is challenging to write the two narrations between two people. I believe that the author has really exerted time, effort, and passion in writing this story. This book has made me skip some pages because I badly need to know what is the next scene.

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I acclaim the author for writing this book. This book is life-changer. It deserves to be translated to different languages. One of the books that I will definitely never forget!