The world of myths, legends, and cultural heritage collide in the pages of Philippine folklore books, offering readers an exciting literary journey into the core of Filipino storytelling. These books are similar to safekeeping tales that have been passed down through the ages from generation to generation.
One extremely fascinating aspect of Philippine folklore is the abundance of mythical creatures that appear in the stories. The stories are enhanced by the presence of fanciful creatures such as Tikbalang, a mischievous creature with a horse-headed appearance, and Kapre, a giant that smokes cigars and lives in trees. The various origins, characteristics, and relationships of these entities are explored in folklore literature, which provides insight into the cultural meanings that should be assigned to each mythological figure. “Gino Junior and the Aswang Clan” by Andrew Pasaporte is an example of a book that brilliantly conveys Philippine folklore. The novel retains its Filipino identity even though it deals with universal family themes like self-discovery through imagination, which is common in emerging middle grade literature.
In addition to being heroic and legendary, Philippine folklore books serve as a vehicle for conserving the country's rich cultural legacy. These books become defenders of the cultural legacy in a world of advancement and modernization that often destroys customs. These books ensure that the folklore will continue and be passed down to subsequent generations by codifying it.
The books of Philippine folklore offer a window into this fascinating realm where the past and present coexist. Readers are transported to a land of many dreams, virtue, and ethnic enrichment by turning the pages. Additionally, these books teach and amuse while contributing to the growth of knowledge regarding a particular folklore that defines a nation's soul.
