The Boy, the Mountain, and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon

by Caris Avendaño Cruz

From the author of Marikit and the Ocean of Stars, a magical middle grade adventure about three Filipino children who must find their way through a mystical land filled with monsters and gods from Filipino lore.

The town of Santo Cristo is known for two things–their colorful town fiesta capped off with a solemn evening procession, and the dozens of people that have disappeared over the years. When three kids–the headstrong Bayani, his sister Isay, and anxious Aaron–find their way over the other side of a mysterious bridge and to a long-forgotten island of myth, they're faced with monsters, cryptids, and sinister characters. In this land of Night, they must find their way back to their world and keep their light burning bright lest they lose themselves too.

Genres: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Mythology

320 pages, Hardcover

Published July 1, 2025

Reviews

[Emmzxiee · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝘆, 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗔𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀 𝗔𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮ñ𝗼 𝗖𝗿𝘂𝘇


This is my second time reading a work by Caris Avendaño Cruz, and my expectations were high, especially after Marikit and the Ocean of Stars became one of my favorite reads two years ago. Thankfully, Ms. Caris did not disappoint. Once again, she transported me into her world of beautiful writing, compelling characters, and a promising plot.
The author wonderfully represents Filipino culture and tradition. Readers will surely be inspired to learn more about the Philippines' rich heritage. The book draws deeply from Filipino folklore and mythology, showcasing creatures and beliefs that make the story feel both magical and rooted in something real.

Avendaño Cruz explores these themes with a mix of magic and fantasy that will surely enchant both the young and the young at heart. This book leads readers into a world of wonder and adventure. While the overall tone sometimes dips into darkness, it ultimately conveys a powerful message—one of hope.

When it comes to character development, the author truly shines. At first, I thought only one character would stand out, but I was proven wrong. Each character is thoughtfully crafted, and the emotional and narrative weight is well distributed among them. They're not just sidekicks—they each carry purpose, growth, and meaning. It was satisfying to see how their stories intertwined and supported one another. Even the strongest characters are shown to be vulnerable, and that vulnerability becomes a moment of reconnection with their purpose.

As for the writing style, all I can say is that it is masterful. I was never bored—I found myself relating to the story and the characters deeply. The world-building is intricate and vivid; it felt like watching a beautifully animated film unfold in my mind.

There is always a sense of magic in Avendaño Cruz’s writing. She invites readers into a world that feels like the one we imagined when we were kids—full of wonder, danger, and hope.
The message of the book resonated with me personally. The lines and passages spoken by the characters made me reflect on my own life. The story reminded me that it’s okay to pause, to lose our light sometimes. What matters is that there are people who help us rekindle that light. This message brought to mind a poem I wrote in an anthology edited by Claire Betita De Guzman, titled Plot Twist.

Overall, The Boy, The Mountain, and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon is more than just an adventure—it’s an experience. Readers of all ages will find meaning in it. The book is filled with hope, faith, trust, kindness, and love. It’s a beacon of light that reminds us never to give up. As Bayani, one of the characters, said: “There is always a way.”

If you’ve read this—or plan to—I hope you find hope within its pages. And may that hope shine through in the darkest parts of your journey.

I received an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. My views regarding this novel were not affected by the author or even the organizers of this event. Thanks to The Filipino Shelf and the team that is involved in this project.

#TheFilipinoShelfBookTour #TBTMATSWATMBookTour #TheFilipinoShelf #TBTMATSWATM


Is there a way to modify the rating system of GR? ' cause the book that I read has more than 5 stars. If I could get all the stars in the galaxy, that is the one that I am putting on this novel. Another best read for this year. This book is Hope.

[Spens (Sphynx Reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actual rating: 3.5

I didn't like this nearly as much as Marikit and the Ocean of Stars as this felt a lot more plot-centric. I missed the emotional hook that Marikit had on me, especially as I found myself relating to her character, but perhaps I had also just read that book in a more emotional state. This book still has many of the things I loved about Marikit—lovable characters, an uplifting message, and whimsical world-building. I said it of Marikit and I'll say the same of this book: these stories remind me so much of Studio Ghibli films. They're immersive, they're just a touch of dark, and the atmosphere these stories create linger past their end. I also loved Cruz's take on mananaggals, kapres, and kataws here, the sibling relationship between Isay and Bayani, as well as the theme of taking care of nature. All that said, because there wasn't an emotional hook in this story for me, I found my interest waning through the last quarter. Still a good enough novel, but I wish I loved it more.

[Paula M · Rating 4 out of 5]

You can also read my review here.

“There is always a way, Bayani believed. If not, I will make one.”

A boy wearing his shirt inside out might just be the one to save the world.

Welcome to the town of Santo Cristo, where people mourn the lost without knowing where they’ve gone or what really happened to them. Whispers of disappearances haunt the town. What took them? Where did they go? Does the mountain looming in the distance hold the answers?

🌖 Let me start off this review by saying: buy this book. Buy it for your kids. Buy it for yourself. Buy it even if you think you’re too old for Middle Grade because if there’s one thing I know, it’s that the best MG books can move adults just as deeply. As someone who doesn’t normally reach for middle-grade titles, I have so much admiration for authors who write for young readers with such depth and emotional resonance that even adults like me end up feeling seen and a little bit undone.

🌖 It’s hard to pick a “best part” because the story as a whole is incredibly well-crafted. Cruz delivers an engaging plot with layered, complex, and unforgettable characters. Drawing from Filipino mythology, she weaves themes of loss (in all senses of the word), selfishness, community, and even climate change in a way that feels both timely and timeless. It’s the kind of book I wish I had growing up, and I’m so grateful it exists for kids (and grownups) today. Books like this remind us: never lose your whimsy.

This is my first book by Caris Avendaño Cruz, and it absolutely won’t be my last.

🌖 The Boy, The Mountain, and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon is an epic adventure. Not just for kids, but for anyone who craves a meaningful, magical journey. Bayani will make you brave. Isay will touch your heart. Aaron will leave you hopeful. These characters will stay with you long after the final page, reminding you gently and powerfully that gentleness, too, is a kind of bravery.

[Bibliophilic Richard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Caris' books have a theme that I can sum up in 3 points:

🐥 Nostalgia - Caris' writing style brings back memories of our childhood TV Shows like Wansapanataym and Hiraya Manawari with the children, journey, and lessons. The book is so easy to follow and immersive that I finished it in 2 short sprints. The book also reminds us of our childhood experiences which are Tatak Pinoy from processions and salo-salos.

🌲 Environmental Awareness - Caris never fails to remind us to take care of our environment and the nods are personal and deep. The book emphasizes the need to take care of our trees, specifically mangroves, as they help in keeping our cities sustained and safe. We need more books that educate in the form of stories like this instead of in the form of lectures that warn and scare. There is always a way and there is always a gentler way. 🥹

🇵🇭 Proudly Pinoy - Caris' books are Pinoy by showing, not telling. Aside from mentions of traditions, creatures, and terminologies, the book is Filipino because it embodies the heart of what it is to be Filipino - courageous, resilient, and loving.

It's our honor, in The Filipino Shelf, to give love to stories like this. It's my honor to be a part of this book tour because Caris' entire being and her stories so deeply touched my heart and makes me proud to be Filipino. It's our honor as readers to live in a time where stories like this are told and are accessible for the world to see.

Just like Book Chickas and The Filipino Shelf, our stories are the safe space where we can build communities with love and light.

[kyra · Rating 5 out of 5]

it wasn't a book that had me racing to the end, wanting to know what was going to happen, but rather it was a book that i genuinely enjoyed taking my time with. reading this was a breathe of fresh air after months of not picking up any middle grade, it felt relaxing to just read the lines, immerse myself in the very descriptive setting, and easily absorb information without much heavy thought processing. this however doesn't mean that the story was devoid of any meaning or message.

we follow Bayani, Isay, and Aaron as they find their way through the Endless Night, fighting monsters, temptations, and preconceived notions, all while trying to keep their Light alive.

overall the book stands for hope - the belief that there will always be a way out of trying situations and that there will always be people along the way that spark and ignite that flame in us if we ever find ourselves so close to giving up.

my first caris cruz read, and it will definitely not be the last - this was absolutely lovely!!! if anything, let this be another friendly nudge to push everyone to read middle grade books!

[Tuesday Pil · Rating 5 out of 5]

caris avendaño cruz has done it again!!!!!!! i left this book feeling emotional and joyous and so full of hope 🥺

[Leah May Lim-Atienza · Rating 5 out of 5]


I haven’t been reading a lot of middle-grade books, but I devoured this one at the beginning of this month and I didn’t stop until I finished. It was so compelling and impactful, there were times I cried just because…

This Filipino-inspired middle‑grade adventure has the heart and the magic that you could look for in any book. The mythological creatures like the kapre and the aswang (love this wise aswang) brought me back to childhood shows that brought fear, but also a sense of awe. It also made me take a second look at the possible stories these night creatures could bring to our lives.

Then, of course, there’s Bayani, Isay, and Aaron. I love Bayani’s courageousness and protectiveness over his younger sister and his cousin. Isay’s grit and Aaron’s quiet bravery were also quite essential in the overall effect and conclusion of the story.

As someone who loves lyrical worldbuilding, I was absolutely riveted on how Caris wove emotions into this book. She created a story that sings of hope even after getting lost, without being heavy-handed about it. The way she writes has made me a fan.

Caris and this book have my heart.

[Shiandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me on a wild ride. However, it also showed me the power of bayanihan. It showed me how we have the power to ultimately destroy or save the society and world we live in.

[Read Love Irie · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗲𝗻𝗱, 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗮 𝘄𝗮𝘆.

What a powerful book to kick off my 2025 reading year! I was moved in so many ways and I just knew that its impact will stay with me for a long time.

Special thanks to @netgalley for this digital ARC. I just couldn't wait for the official release because this book is written by one of my favorite Filipina authors, @carisavencruz !

It's Pistang Bayan, but our little hero is grounded. Still, Bayani always finds a way - he always does. Bayani loves chasing adventures, even when it lands him in trouble. And this time, he is about to experience one he never saw coming. Oh sure, Bayani found a way to join the festivities - thanks to his sister, Isay. They joined the prusisyon with their cousin, Aaron.

And so begins the tale of three children who went the wrong way, lost in the "hamog", and found themselves in a mysterious place of everlasting night. With only a candle each to guide them - its flame enchanted by a Kapre to never die unless someone huffs on it - they must find their way home through the unknown.

"...𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗼 𝗶𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗴𝗼. 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝗴𝗼 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁. 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝗴𝗼 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸... 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲. 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗻."

This book is a masterful blend of eerie suspense and heartfelt warmth. It gave me hair-raising, spine-tingling moments that kept me on edge,yet at its heart, it radiated hope, the strength of community, and the power of believing in oneself.

"...𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗵𝗼 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗸 - 𝗮 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝘆𝗲𝗿 - 𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗲𝘅𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝘀𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗵𝗮 - 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿 - 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘄..."

With familiar elements of Filipino culture, beliefs, and mythical creatures, this book weaves a story that truly lingers in the heart of every Filipino yet also holds an appeal that everyone in the world can connect with. May we all be Lightbringers!

This is absolutely a 5⭐ read!

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and NetGalley for an eARC of this novel. A dark and terrible quest through endless night perfect for fans of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and A Wrinkle in Time. This epic quest strikes the perfect balance between surrealism and critical reflection. Following three young Filipino children, The Boy, the Mountain, and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon transports readers into a deadly world of eternal night where the children must learn to overcome their own self-interests to save not only themselves but their whole community. What I loved best about this story was that the creatures of myth and folklore were terrifying, and often did things we would consider bad, but they were not unilaterally evil. In fact, they become heroes when the children accept them for what they are. It is the humans - the ones who refuse to think outside of their own interests - who are the true villains of this tale. A beautiful story of selflessness and community steeped in Filipino culture.

Note: The creatures featured in this novel do carry a level of body horror and the overall tale is very concerned with loss of hope and darkness both inside and out. The author also provides a warning at the beginning of the novel for similar themes.

[Mark Alpheus · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Boy, The Mountain, And The Serpent Who Ate The Moon, the sophomore Middle Grade Fantasy novel by Caris Avendaño Cruz took me by surprise. I already loved Marikit and the Ocean of Stars, but I love this book even more!

The most notable thing about this book for me is the social commentary related to nature. As a teacher, I believe that caring for nature is an attitude that must be ingrained to us at a young age. While Bayani mostly leads a story about hope and not giving up, the setting of this book provides valuable insights on how the destruction of natural resources led to a catastrophe that could affect the lives of a huge group of people.

This book made me think about a LOT of things and I KID YOU NOT AT EVERY CHAPTER THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING INTERESTING THAT'S WORTH PAUSING AND THINKING ABOUT!

This was such a wonderful experience for me and I really hope that it reaches our young learners especially around the Philippines.

[Carla Small · Rating 5 out of 5]

is an absolute gem—radiant with imagination, rich in cultural texture, and brimming with heart-pounding adventure. From the very first page, it casts an irresistible spell, sweeping readers into the mysterious town of Santo Cristo, where legends walk quietly alongside everyday life, and the shadows hold secrets waiting to be uncovered.

At the center of this tale are three unforgettable kids: Bayani, Isay, and Aaron—a trio as wonderfully flawed and vibrant as the world they find themselves lost in. Their dynamic is pitch-perfect: Bayani’s boldness, Isay’s fierce determination, and Aaron’s tender anxiety create a beautifully balanced group that readers will root for instantly. Their friendship, tested and transformed in the eerie land of Night, is the glowing thread that holds the story together.

The setting is nothing short of stunning. The forgotten island beyond the bridge pulses with dark wonder, populated by cryptids and creatures drawn from Filipino myth and folklore. The world-building is immersive and original, a fantastical landscape that feels alive with ancient magic and danger. And yet, for all its monsters and malevolence, the heart of the story is achingly human—about fear, courage, and the fragile strength of light in the face of darkness.

The writing dazzles with clarity and lyrical touches, painting vivid scenes without slowing the pace. Every moment feels purposeful, whether eerie, tender, or thrilling. And though the story delves into chilling territory at times, it never loses its warmth. There's a quiet, radiant message pulsing underneath: hold onto the light, especially when you’re most afraid.

If there’s any criticism to be made, it’s that readers may find themselves wishing for just a few more pages—more time in this vivid world, more space to linger with these beautifully drawn characters. But perhaps that’s part of the magic too: *The Land of Night* doesn’t overstay its welcome, instead leaving a lasting glow.

This is storytelling at its finest—bold, heartfelt, and utterly unforgettable. A modern myth in the making, deserves to be read, shared, and cherished.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twelve-year-old Bayani in his village in the Philippines, wants to go to the prusisyon procession that takes place once a year. His mother worries that he will become one of The Lost, the many members of Santo Cristo who have disappeared. He persuades his mother into letting him go with his little sister, Isay. When they and their cousin Aaron cross a magical bridge, however, they might have sealed their fate to become the Lost. Can they survive monsters? Be able to move mountains to free the land from the everlasting night? Bring The Lost found home?

The author has the three main characters have a slow awakening of how their actions impact the world. Cruz weaves Filipino folklore into this charming adventure, balancing the story’s darker elements with moments of humor and themes of hope and friendship. I enjoyed this novel with them finding them overcoming their fear and realizing that they couldn’t be selfish.

Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t Twelve-year-old Bayani in his village in the Philippines, wants to go to the prusisyon procession that takes place once a year. His mother worries that he will become one of The Lost, the many members of Santo Cristo who have disappeared. He persuades his mother into letting him go with his little sister, Isay. When they and their cousin Aaron cross a magical bridge, however, they might have sealed their fate to become the Lost. Can they survive monsters? Be able to move mountains to free the land from the everlasting night? Bring The Lost found home?

The author has the three main characters have a slow awakening of how their actions impact the world. Cruz weaves Filipino folklore into this charming adventure, balancing the story’s darker elements with moments of humor and themes of hope and friendship. I enjoyed this novel with them finding them overcoming their fear and realizing that they couldn’t be selfish.

Disclaimer : I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly mine own.

[Highnyzbibliofiles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the years, people have kept disappearing in the town of Santo Cristo. On the day of the town’s fiesta, three kids—Bayani, Isay, and Aaron—unknowingly get lost on a long-forgotten island. As they try to find their way back home, they must keep their light burning, or else they too will be lost forever.

This was my first time reading a young adult or middle-grade novel after a very long time. I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did, I even requested an e-book version so I could keep reading while traveling. The story brought me back to my younger years of reading fantasy novels filled with adventure. Each character plays a role that seems to symbolize a specific virtue, showing how those virtues can overcome any challenge.

The book explores multiple themes, such as the innocence and naivety of children. They can be fearless, yet fearlessness can sometimes become recklessness. The characters undergo significant development, proving that weaknesses can be changed and overcome.

I also love how the novel touches on real-world issues. It offers insight into how industrialization, modernization, and greed can lead to humanity’s downfall, very timely for the current problems faced in the Philippines It can be the same to corruption and flood control issues. Despite being a fantasy, the symbolism is ever-present. People suffer, and it takes one person to stand up to bullies and dictators. One voice can inspire courage in others, awakening those who have been blinded by normalized problems. It creates a ripple effect—changing hearts and giving strength to face fears.

I want to thank The Filipino Shelf and Caris for choosing me as a winner of this book, and I’m ready to join the discussion on Talk Bookish to Me!

[Miracle Meryll · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is for the people who feel lost in the dark, fight their way back, almost give up, and finally find their hope—a hope that brings light on their way back home.

Since I was a kid, I’ve always been up for listening to stories about different Filipino mythological creatures such as the Manananggal, Kapre, and more. And if you’re like me, then you should definitely read this one—no matter what your age is.

The Boy, The Mountain, and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon by Cariz Avendaño Cruz is a story that follows three children: Bayani—the brave one; Isay—his sister, determined and courageous; and Aaron—their cousin, anxious yet pure and heartwarming. Their adventure begins when a magical bridge whisks them away to a forgotten island surrounded by eternal night.

The author masterfully blends magic with Filipino folklore, tackling themes of courage, friendship, resilience, and environmental awareness. It’s a tale about remembering forgotten stories, facing the dark, and carrying your own light home.

Some might think a middle grade adventure fantasy book is just for kids—but this one is filled with lessons that even adults can take to heart. Sometimes, the answers to our grown-up questions are waiting in the world of children. That’s what I realized here.

So if you are searching for a story that feels like a soft light in the dark—something to remind you of wonder, bravery, and the power of myth and old tales—this book might just be for you. Let it lead you home, one page at a time.

[Kath Lau · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s the night of the prusisyon and Bayani is grounded. With the help of his younger sister Isay, he persuades their mother to let him attend the prusisyon with a promise to stay out of trouble. But Bayani being Bayani, ends up in a deep trouble but this time he is not alone. Trap in a world of darkness filled with terrifying creatures, Bayani, Isay, and their cousin Aaron need to find their way back home before it’s too late.

This was my first middle-grade read this year and I’m happy that it’s a book by a Filipino author. The characters were one of my favorites in this book. I loved how each of them has their own adventures. Facing their fears and using their unique talents and even their weaknesses to outsmart their ways through different obstacles.

The first thing that caught my attention was Bayani’s mantra - “there’s always a way” which screams Filipino resilience. This book is a perfect introduction to Filipino culture and mythology. I loved how the mythical creatures were terrifying but also likable. The unexpected friendship and bond they developed with the our main characters were delightful to read. It shows how they’re misunderstood by humans and towards the end, we find out who the real villains are. I enjoyed the mystery surrounding the town and the missing persons. I loved the beautiful, lyrical writing! The eerie atmosphere combined with humor. The author has perfectly managed to balance important themes (like climate change) and dark elements with fun moments and whimsical adventures. I felt nostalgic while reading this book. The pink-colored popcorn! This book brought back some memories from my childhood.

The Boy, The Mountain, and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon is a well-crafted story with complex characters filled with moral lessons perfect not only for young readers but also for adult and young-at-heart readers out there.

Huge thanks to @thefilipinoshelf for having me in this virtual book tour and to @carisavencruz for writing this amazing book! Can't wait for everyone to read it!

[Aika Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Boy, the Mountain and The Serpent Who Ate the Moon reminded me of the episodes of the classic Philippine Education shows Wansapanataym and Hiraya Manawari. The book and the show both delve into moral lessons through magical realism teaching Filipino life values, resilience, courage and familial love through folklore allegories.

TBTMATSWATM is an adventure surrounded in shadows. The author, Caris Avendaño Cruz blends the thrills of darkness, fantasy and coming of age story. The main characters, Bayani, Isay and Aaron can make readers feel their realness with their character growth - overcoming their internal fears and standing up to overcome challenges.

The novel having shown characters relating to Filipino folklore such as mananggal, kapre, syokoy and even an enchanted bridge offered exciting thrill to me and for sure to all young readers.

I enjoyed how the story unfolds from the First Lost, to the magical creatures. Yet, TBTMATSWATM is not just your ordinary book, it tackles social commentary on environmental damage, spreading of urban developments and family separation. It's emotional core - “there’s always a way" is touching and made the goal of yearning for light in a world full of grief and mystery more moving.

This book's best audience are:
children aged 8 to 12
educators
youth seeking cultural connection
actually, all ages :)

[Laurenz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully intertwined with the Filipino culture, this book is more than just kids diving into some adventure — this was a story of being resilient and the importance of having a sense of community.

I must say that I hold this book so dear to me because it’s just so good and nostalgic! In terms of writing, the author made the story so captivating that every chapter had you on your toes, ready to meet the next mythological creature with the kids. It was fast-paced, thrilling, and captivating which easily got me out of a horrible slump!

It is more than an adventure book and it is more than just for kids. One of the themes in the book that really spoke to me is the relationship between humans and nature; how everything was made for a purpose, the beauty of being able to coexist with things far beyond our comprehension, and of course, that we as humans, have the ability to be destructive — it’s not a secret anymore at this point.

This is a book that every child and adult should read at one point in their lives. It helps one to realize that our connection with our community, as well as our environment, are important to nurture even as we get older. The more we forget, the more we become less humane.

So if you’re wondering what your next Filipino fantasy read it, please, please consider this book!

[JT Milam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay so The Boy, the Mountain, and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon by Caris Avendaño Cruz totally surprised me—in the best way. I don’t usually get super into fantasy (it’s just such an overwatered genre, like how many ancient prophecies and chosen ones do we need?), but this one actually pulled me in. The writing felt lyrical without trying too hard, the world-building was lush but not overwhelming, and the vibes were just right.

What really sold it for me, though, was that the main characters weren’t white. It’s such a breath of fresh air to read a fantasy that doesn’t default to some medieval Europe blueprint. The cultural elements were woven in so naturally, and it gave the whole story this rich, grounded feeling that made the magic hit even harder. Plus, the character dynamics? Loved. A little strange, a little sad, a little hopeful—right up my alley.

If you’re into books like The Girl Who Drank the Moon or The Storm Runner, this one will probably be your jam. It’s got that dreamy, myth-meets-heartache vibe that lingers after the last page. 4 out of 5 stars from this not-usually-a-fantasy-girl.

[Bana AZ · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Not a coward. Just gentle... Gentleness is a kind of bravery, too."

Synopsis:
Bayani lives in the town of Santo Cristo where his mom has plenty of rules so he won't become one of the Lost. But on the night of the fiesta, Bayani, his sister Isay, and cousin Aaron find themselves in an unfamiliar part of town, a place that looks like an entirely different world. They meet surprising monsters and have to find a way home.

Thoughts:
This was really cute and heartwarming. I was a little surprised that there were some scary parts, even though there was already an author's note warning us about it. (But I'm just a scaredy cat.)

This story had a lot of important lessons about never giving up, being brave, sharing your blessings, and taking care of the environment. It's definitely a relevant story for young readers and old. These lessons are perfectly woven in an adventure story with some lovable characters. My favorite one is Aaron, a young boy with a lot of unexpected bravery.

The only con I see, as an adult reading a middle grade book, is that I think the chapter titles give too much away. (I'm reviewing the ARC or advanced reader's copy though, so I'm not sure if these chapter titles are final.)

All in all, I enjoyed this. I felt warm and fuzzy inside after reading it, and I'm looking forward to reading Marikit and the Ocean of Stars, this author's debut work, and anything else she'll write in the future.

How I found out about this: My book club highly recommends this author.

Who should read this: The young and young at heart.

Other quotes I like:
"Little things GROW, BOY. Like FIRE. Like CHILDREN. Like COURAGE."

"I USED TO look after THEM. But they didn't look AFTER ME!"

"It's a cycle, Isay thought. A cycle of hatred and greed and darkness.
Unless someone stepped in and changed that.
Unless someone gave them hope."

[Tales Untangled · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR). I'm voluntarily leaving a review.

Genre: Fantasy, Mythology, Filipino Mythology
Audience: Middle grade (elementary school children from about 7-11)

THE BOY, THE MOUNTAIN, AND THE SERPENT WHO ATE THE MOON delves into the world of Filipino mythology.

Bayani and his sister Isay team up with Aaron are the main characters on a journey. It has an Alice in Wonderland vibe to it as the children descend to another land, that is dark and scary and confusing (as in the kids are confused about who to trust and who to do to survive and to try to escape).

Things to look forward to:
- Monsters
- References to protecting the environment
- Each of the three main characters experience growth
- Things (and monsters) are not what they always seem
- Bravery
- Resilience
- Believing in yourself
- The importance of family

Happy reading!

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first time reading anything by this author, and I found myself struggling to connect with the story overall. The darker turn in the narrative was intriguing, but I had difficulty keeping up with the Filipino lore, mythology, and language. That’s probably more about my own unfamiliarity than any fault of the book, but it did slow down my reading as I often couldn’t tell if a word was a name, a term, or an expression.

I also didn’t quite connect with the characters, and the worldbuilding felt a bit surface-level and confusing to me. The story itself is solid, and the characters are fine, but it didn’t leave a strong impression.

I know not every book is going to resonate with every reader, and this one simply wasn’t for me. Still, if the synopsis interests you, it might be worth giving it a try.

[Moth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the ARC!

The Boy, the Mountain, and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon is a middle grade fantasy, starring three kids who wander into a land that no one has returned from.
This was a good book and it went very quick. I enjoyed the adventure and the ways Filipino culture and mythology were woven into the story.
The characters were all great; even the side characters could stand on their own. Everyone had their own arc and learned to be a better person, and it was very nice to see.
I highly recommend this for anyone wanting a diverse middle grade adventure.

CW: death; missing family & grief; injury; minor body horror

[Manon the Malicious · Rating 2 out of 5]

*2.5 Stars*

I was provided an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This didn't really work for me. I didn't connect to the characters and it felt like the whole thing kind of stayed surface level for me. It was all a little confusing and the world didn't feel like it was very well described. It wasn't bad or anything, I just didn't connect with it. I've read so many great middle grades, this one just didn't feel as finished and deep as the others. I don't know. I was hoping for more I guess.

[Zelos Tokumoto · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited about this book and I am glad I got to read it, I really enjoyed the story and the mythology behind it.

I’ll be honest there’s not many books with Filipino mythology at least not that I’ve found, being able to see the culture and mythology was an absolute delight for me as I love learning about different cultures and their mythologies.

I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone I really think you’ll enjoy it if you give it a chance.

Thank you netgalley Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) for the arc

[Iris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I immediately fell in love with the three kids. They seemed so real because their experiences as Filipino kids were similar to my own. With the usual Filipino family structure, rules, and expectations, you can’t help but relate to them in many ways. The characters, including the mythical creatures, are also unique and brave, which moved me throughout the book.

My favorite part of the book is the social commentary on various social issues that is relevant to readers of all ages, but particularly to young readers. The book talks about toxic family culture, police incompetence, privileged people, misuse of authority, and negative human impacts on the environment.

I will encourage any child in my life to read this book because it is both fun and essential.

[Ember Moto · Rating 2 out of 5]

Did Not finish this book. The story is good the characters are fine, I just didn't like the authors writing style. What is frustrating is that I can't even point to a particular reason why I didn't like the writing style it just didn't click with me. Not every book is going to be for everyone and this book just wasn't for me. However if the synopsis seems like this would be your jam then give it a chance! Thank You to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC copy.

[Jen Nishi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. The writing is beautiful and it balanced hopeful yet dark and creepy so well. The author put a very lovely content warning at the front and I found that very helpful. I loved the folklore aspect of it and the character development was fantastic. It got a little heavy handed with the lesson it was teaching at times but I believe it’s an important message especially in today’s world to be shared about not giving up hope.

[Dani · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars! I really enjoyed the Filipino-ness of Caris Avendaño Cruz's second novel. I think the 3 POVs was a little less emotionally impactful for me compared with Marikit and the Ocean of Stars, but I still think this book is absolutely necessary and a gift to young FilX kids everywhere. More books where we can gleefully bask in our own folklore, culture, food, and characters. Wonderful, magical, and healing all at once.

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 3 out of 5]

E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus

Bayani and his sister Isay team up with Aaron to investigate a mystery surrounding the celebration of Pistang Bayan in their hometown in the Philippines, but get whisked off to an island of eternal darkness and need to survive in order to do so. A scary adventure with plenty of Filipino culture intertwined.