What do you think?
Rate this book
Janus Sílang #1
Si Janus Sílang at ang Tiyanak ng Tábon
Sa tournament ng TALA Online sa bayan ng Balanga, namatay ang lahat ng manlalaro maliban kay Janus. Sunod-sunod pa ang naging kaso ng pagkamatay ng mga kabataan sa computer shops sa iba’t-ibang panig ng bansa. Kinontak si Janus ng nagpakilalang Joey, isa rin umano sa mga nakaligtas sa paglalaro ng TALA na gaya niya. Hindi inasahan ni Janus ang mga matutuklasan niya mula rito na mag-uugnay sa kanya sa misteryo ng kinahuhumalingan niyang RPG—at sa alamat ng Tiyanak mula sa Tábon!
179 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
127 people are currently reading
2030 people want to read
About the author
Edgar Calabia Samar
34 books573 followersEdgar Calabia Samar is a multi-awarded poet and novelist from the Philippines. His first novel, Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog, received the NCCA Writer’s Prize in 2005, and its English translation as Eight Muses of the Fall was longlisted in the Man Asian Literary Prize in 2009. In 2013, he received two Philippine National Book Awards––one for his second novel, Sa Kasunod ng 909 (Best Novel), and another for his book on the creative process, Halos Isang Buhay: Ang Manananggal sa Pagsusulat ng Nobela (Best Book of Criticism). Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon, the first book in his YA series Janus Silang, also received the Philippine National Book Award for Best Novel in 2015 and the Philippine National Children’s Book Award for Best 2014-2015 Read in 2016. He has also received prizes for his poetry and fiction from the Palanca and the PBBY-Salanga Writer’s Prize. His other books include Pag-aabang sa Kundiman: Isang Tulambuhay, a poetry collection, and 101 Kagila-gilalas na Nilalang, a children's encyclopedia of Philippine fantastic creatures. In 2010, he was invited as writer-in-residence to the International Writing Program of the University of Iowa.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 370 reviews
May 24, 2014
Sa akin kayo maniwala dahil di ako mahilig mambola pagdating sa libro. Marami akong binabasa, iba't ibang genre, kaya alam ko ang sinasabi ko.
Maganda ang librong ito. Pinoy ka? Malamang dahil binabasa mo ang rebyu kong ito. Kung oo at nagmamahal ka sa sarili nating Panitikan, basahin mo ang librong ito. P175 lang naman, bilhin mo na. Kung palabasa ka pero, sa anumang kadahilanan ay English ang madalas mong basahin, mag-effort ka: subukan mo lang. Kahit pang-YA ito ang kuwento, may utak ang kuwento. May substance, may may matinong plot, may message. Ibig kong sabihin: hindi pipitsugin yong pakakabalangkas ng mga kuwento, malinis ang pagkakalahad, interestante ang mga tauhan, mahusay ang editing (walang typo!), maganda ang pabalat (hindi korni), mabibigyan ng marami ring interpretasyon at pakahulugan upang magkaroon ng saysay na di lang titingnan ang libro bilang YA o fantasy na tumutugon lang sa panlasa ng mga bata o teenagers.
Sabi na sa iyo: singkuwenta na ako ngayong taong ito (1964 ako pinanganak) pero nagustuhan ko ang librong ito. Di naman ako freak. Malawak lang ang taste ko sa books. Tinitingnan ko kasi hindi genre kundi yong galing ng pagkakasulat. I-click mo ang rebyu kong ito para maintindihan mo kung anong klase akong mambabasa.
Gaya ng The Lord of the Rings (5 stars) ni J.R.R. Tolkien, ang Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon ay kuwento ng laban ng mabubuti at masasama. Ang tungalian na nagsimula pa noong tuksuhin ng ahas si Eba sa Eden. Ang tungalian na walang kamataya't pinaksa na ng maraming libro sa panitikan - maging fantasy man o hindi - kung kaya't maraming mambabasa ang makaka-relate dito. Uy, kasi nga kung gustong-gusto mo ang LOTR o Narnia o Harry Potter, subukan mo naman ang sariling atin at magiging proud Pinoy ka na merong librong puwede nating i-tapat sa mga magagandang librong yan na sinulat ng mga foreign authors.
Sariling atin talaga. Tigilan na ang paghahambing na gaya ito ng Percy Jackson, X-Men, Matrix, Ender's Game at kung anu-ano pa. Ibahin si Edgar Calabia Samar isang professor ng Panitikan sa Ateneo de Manila. Ibig sabihin, nagiisip at di lang nakikiuso sa mga ibang manunulat. Gusto ng patunay? Basahin ang unang libro niyang Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog (4 stars) at alamin kung gaano ka-intricate o kalalim ang istilo niya sa pagsusulat na hindi mo na basta-basta makikita sa mga manunulat ngayon, mapa-Pinoy man o sa mga dayuhan. Ang influences niya: Murakami, Bolano, Foster Wallace atpb. Ibig sabihin, may istilong di pangkaraniwan.
Marami na akong nabasang Pinoy books pero ito yong talagang naka-glue yata ako habang nagbabasa. Ibig kong sabihin, itinigil ko ang iba kong binabasa at iunti-unti ito. Ninamnam ang mga salita. Sa opisina noong isang araw, sa pantry tapos lunch break, nagkukuwentuhan sila ng mga balita (news). May tungkol kay Napoles, sa showbiz, sa reblocking sa EDSA, sa EDCA, etc. Tapos ako nakaupo lang kumakain. Nagiisip ako: ano kayang isi-share kong news? Naisip ko: may mga kabataang namatay sa Balanga sabi ni Kabayan (Noli de Castro) at Doris Begornia! Muntik ko nang sabihin kung di ko naala-ala na dito lang pala sa kuwento ni Sir Egay Samar ko yon nabasa!
Ganoon. Ganun katindi ang impact sa akin ng librong ito. Di ko na nalalaman kung ano ang reality at fiction. Sabi nila, wala na raw akong life dahil puro trabaho-workout-bahay ang buhay ko. Di nila alam, maraming naglalarong kuwento sa isip ko habang nananahimik particularly na pag lunch time o nasa sulok ako't nagiisip.
5 STARS. Ilalaban ko ito ng patayan. Kahit lumabas pa ang Tiyanak sa harapan ko ngayon.
Maganda ang librong ito. Pinoy ka? Malamang dahil binabasa mo ang rebyu kong ito. Kung oo at nagmamahal ka sa sarili nating Panitikan, basahin mo ang librong ito. P175 lang naman, bilhin mo na. Kung palabasa ka pero, sa anumang kadahilanan ay English ang madalas mong basahin, mag-effort ka: subukan mo lang. Kahit pang-YA ito ang kuwento, may utak ang kuwento. May substance, may may matinong plot, may message. Ibig kong sabihin: hindi pipitsugin yong pakakabalangkas ng mga kuwento, malinis ang pagkakalahad, interestante ang mga tauhan, mahusay ang editing (walang typo!), maganda ang pabalat (hindi korni), mabibigyan ng marami ring interpretasyon at pakahulugan upang magkaroon ng saysay na di lang titingnan ang libro bilang YA o fantasy na tumutugon lang sa panlasa ng mga bata o teenagers.
Sabi na sa iyo: singkuwenta na ako ngayong taong ito (1964 ako pinanganak) pero nagustuhan ko ang librong ito. Di naman ako freak. Malawak lang ang taste ko sa books. Tinitingnan ko kasi hindi genre kundi yong galing ng pagkakasulat. I-click mo ang rebyu kong ito para maintindihan mo kung anong klase akong mambabasa.
Gaya ng The Lord of the Rings (5 stars) ni J.R.R. Tolkien, ang Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon ay kuwento ng laban ng mabubuti at masasama. Ang tungalian na nagsimula pa noong tuksuhin ng ahas si Eba sa Eden. Ang tungalian na walang kamataya't pinaksa na ng maraming libro sa panitikan - maging fantasy man o hindi - kung kaya't maraming mambabasa ang makaka-relate dito. Uy, kasi nga kung gustong-gusto mo ang LOTR o Narnia o Harry Potter, subukan mo naman ang sariling atin at magiging proud Pinoy ka na merong librong puwede nating i-tapat sa mga magagandang librong yan na sinulat ng mga foreign authors.
Sariling atin talaga. Tigilan na ang paghahambing na gaya ito ng Percy Jackson, X-Men, Matrix, Ender's Game at kung anu-ano pa. Ibahin si Edgar Calabia Samar isang professor ng Panitikan sa Ateneo de Manila. Ibig sabihin, nagiisip at di lang nakikiuso sa mga ibang manunulat. Gusto ng patunay? Basahin ang unang libro niyang Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog (4 stars) at alamin kung gaano ka-intricate o kalalim ang istilo niya sa pagsusulat na hindi mo na basta-basta makikita sa mga manunulat ngayon, mapa-Pinoy man o sa mga dayuhan. Ang influences niya: Murakami, Bolano, Foster Wallace atpb. Ibig sabihin, may istilong di pangkaraniwan.
Marami na akong nabasang Pinoy books pero ito yong talagang naka-glue yata ako habang nagbabasa. Ibig kong sabihin, itinigil ko ang iba kong binabasa at iunti-unti ito. Ninamnam ang mga salita. Sa opisina noong isang araw, sa pantry tapos lunch break, nagkukuwentuhan sila ng mga balita (news). May tungkol kay Napoles, sa showbiz, sa reblocking sa EDSA, sa EDCA, etc. Tapos ako nakaupo lang kumakain. Nagiisip ako: ano kayang isi-share kong news? Naisip ko: may mga kabataang namatay sa Balanga sabi ni Kabayan (Noli de Castro) at Doris Begornia! Muntik ko nang sabihin kung di ko naala-ala na dito lang pala sa kuwento ni Sir Egay Samar ko yon nabasa!
Ganoon. Ganun katindi ang impact sa akin ng librong ito. Di ko na nalalaman kung ano ang reality at fiction. Sabi nila, wala na raw akong life dahil puro trabaho-workout-bahay ang buhay ko. Di nila alam, maraming naglalarong kuwento sa isip ko habang nananahimik particularly na pag lunch time o nasa sulok ako't nagiisip.
5 STARS. Ilalaban ko ito ng patayan. Kahit lumabas pa ang Tiyanak sa harapan ko ngayon.
June 22, 2025
Re-read: September 2, 2017
Pero syempre, walang okey. Hindi okey ang lahat.
Unang pagbasa: February 22, 2015
May TALA Online ba sa totoong buhay? Para kasing gusto ko nang laruin ang game na 'to. Kapag ini-imagine ko kasi yung laro base sa pagkakalarawan ni Janus, (pangunahing tauhan) mukhang napaka-epic. Mukhang ang astig. Mukhang mag-e-enjoy at mapapa-isip ako. Kaya unang kabanata pa lang, naku, hooked na agad ako.
Iniisip ko nga nung una kung tungkol ito sa kompyuter game, bakit may Tiyanak sa titulo? Hanggang sa nabanggit ni Janus na ang TALA Online ay tungkol sa paglaban sa mga aswang, tikbalang, mambabarang, etc. para matapos ang mga lebel ng laro. Sa makatuwid, Philippine myth and folklore.
Pamilyar ako sa mga aswang at tikbalang na yan pero hindi sa mga Bagani at Pusong na syang magiging character mo sa laro. Nailarawan at naipalawanag na ni Janus ang lahat nang hindi sasakit ang ulo mo dahil sa info-dumping na tinatawag.
Bukod pa riyan, ang ganda ng naging takbo ng kwento. Mula umpisa hanggang dulo, hindi ako nabore. Mas tumaas pa nga ang pananabik at excitement ko sa bawat paglipat ng pahina. Dahil talaga namang ang misteryoso ng mga nagaganap at nakakaexcite nang malaman kung ano ang mangyayari kay Janus. May mga iba't ibang elemento pa ang umusbong sa kwento na lalong nagpa-spice up sa istorya.
Iba-iba rin ang naramadaman ko habang binabasa ang librong ito which is important. Para sa akin, hindi epektibo ang libro kung di ako naaapektuhan nito. May mga eksenang nakakakaba at nakakatakot. May mga eksenang matutuwa ka at magtataka. At merong mga eksenang tila may pumupunit sa puso ko para gawing confetti sa isang variety show tuwing tanghali.
Tapos yung mga twists! I didn't see them coming. Eh kasi naman, mali pala yung iniisip ko. Tuloy na-shock talaga ko sa mga twists.
At bilang naglalaro naman talaga ako ng mga kompyuter games, di ako nahirapan sa mga technical terms/jargons na ginamit ng may-akda. Okay rin sa 'kin yung paggamit ng malalim na Tagalog.
Sa huli, para sa akin, astig ang librong ito at eksayted na ako sa sequel which is malapit na raw sabi ni Sir Egay. At kung Filipino ka, sana mabasa mo rin ang librong ito, P175 lang naman. :)
Pero syempre, walang okey. Hindi okey ang lahat.
Unang pagbasa: February 22, 2015
May TALA Online ba sa totoong buhay? Para kasing gusto ko nang laruin ang game na 'to. Kapag ini-imagine ko kasi yung laro base sa pagkakalarawan ni Janus, (pangunahing tauhan) mukhang napaka-epic. Mukhang ang astig. Mukhang mag-e-enjoy at mapapa-isip ako. Kaya unang kabanata pa lang, naku, hooked na agad ako.
Iniisip ko nga nung una kung tungkol ito sa kompyuter game, bakit may Tiyanak sa titulo? Hanggang sa nabanggit ni Janus na ang TALA Online ay tungkol sa paglaban sa mga aswang, tikbalang, mambabarang, etc. para matapos ang mga lebel ng laro. Sa makatuwid, Philippine myth and folklore.
Pamilyar ako sa mga aswang at tikbalang na yan pero hindi sa mga Bagani at Pusong na syang magiging character mo sa laro. Nailarawan at naipalawanag na ni Janus ang lahat nang hindi sasakit ang ulo mo dahil sa info-dumping na tinatawag.
Bukod pa riyan, ang ganda ng naging takbo ng kwento. Mula umpisa hanggang dulo, hindi ako nabore. Mas tumaas pa nga ang pananabik at excitement ko sa bawat paglipat ng pahina. Dahil talaga namang ang misteryoso ng mga nagaganap at nakakaexcite nang malaman kung ano ang mangyayari kay Janus. May mga iba't ibang elemento pa ang umusbong sa kwento na lalong nagpa-spice up sa istorya.
Iba-iba rin ang naramadaman ko habang binabasa ang librong ito which is important. Para sa akin, hindi epektibo ang libro kung di ako naaapektuhan nito. May mga eksenang nakakakaba at nakakatakot. May mga eksenang matutuwa ka at magtataka. At merong mga eksenang tila may pumupunit sa puso ko para gawing confetti sa isang variety show tuwing tanghali.
Tapos yung mga twists! I didn't see them coming. Eh kasi naman, mali pala yung iniisip ko. Tuloy na-shock talaga ko sa mga twists.
At bilang naglalaro naman talaga ako ng mga kompyuter games, di ako nahirapan sa mga technical terms/jargons na ginamit ng may-akda. Okay rin sa 'kin yung paggamit ng malalim na Tagalog.
Sa huli, para sa akin, astig ang librong ito at eksayted na ako sa sequel which is malapit na raw sabi ni Sir Egay. At kung Filipino ka, sana mabasa mo rin ang librong ito, P175 lang naman. :)
July 7, 2016
I love this series! More so because it's a book coming from a Filipino author. Some would say that it's like Harry Potter or Percy Jackson maybe because the book is marketed as YA and it has a young boy as the protagonist but the story is very Filipino, at the same time people especially kids will relate to. It's about a boy named Janus Silang who participated in an online tournament game but his companions died after finishing a difficult level, he's the only survivor in that internet cafe who played
Terra Anima Legion of Anitos (TALA) online
, not only that, a series of deaths have been reported all over the country linking to the online game.
I'm not into playing Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games (MMORPG) that's why sometimes it's hard to get the feel of it but the author explained the gameplay, the characters and other terms used in the online game satisfactorily without being verbose that I was able to understand them but if you're a gamer then you'll quickly get into what he's talking about. I love Janus Silang as a character because he portrays the kids of todays generation. Kids today are into online games and other tech-y stuff that some are even addicted, they enjoy the company of peers, and are also fledglings in love. Not only that he represents every kid who fantasize of being a hero who saves the world from the evil forces.
It also fascinates me that the TALA online made use of the Filipino folklore as the game's concept. As the use of internet has become more convenient nowadays, kids have more access to foreign cultures and embracing them, gradually forgetting our Filipino cultures and lore. So this book is also great way to introduce and revisit our folklore to everyone.
With a certain degree of epicness, this book enthralled me with its horror and mystery, the Tiyanak seriously scared me, I had to sleep with the lights on! (LOL^^) ... and like the Harry Potter series, this is a kids book that transcends ages. I hope it can also be translated to appeal to foreign readers.
I highly recommend this book to Filipino readers! Read it!
I'm not into playing Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games (MMORPG) that's why sometimes it's hard to get the feel of it but the author explained the gameplay, the characters and other terms used in the online game satisfactorily without being verbose that I was able to understand them but if you're a gamer then you'll quickly get into what he's talking about. I love Janus Silang as a character because he portrays the kids of todays generation. Kids today are into online games and other tech-y stuff that some are even addicted, they enjoy the company of peers, and are also fledglings in love. Not only that he represents every kid who fantasize of being a hero who saves the world from the evil forces.
It also fascinates me that the TALA online made use of the Filipino folklore as the game's concept. As the use of internet has become more convenient nowadays, kids have more access to foreign cultures and embracing them, gradually forgetting our Filipino cultures and lore. So this book is also great way to introduce and revisit our folklore to everyone.
With a certain degree of epicness, this book enthralled me with its horror and mystery, the Tiyanak seriously scared me, I had to sleep with the lights on! (LOL^^) ... and like the Harry Potter series, this is a kids book that transcends ages. I hope it can also be translated to appeal to foreign readers.
I highly recommend this book to Filipino readers! Read it!
September 3, 2016
Crossposted @ The Library Mistress
I've been a gamer myself. I used to go to computer shops to play Counter Strike in elementary, but what really hooked me was Gunbound, I don't know if any of you still remember that game but it has really been popular back in 2006. Don't let its cute GUI fool you because I've met serious gamers around the world in the Gunbound arena. It's not just two players firing at each other, this artillery game is all about strategic calculation. However, as the fuss died down and DOTA captured the hearts of every gamer I know at that, I let the girl in me bloomed into a lady and shied away from RPG and online games. Okay, let's just be truthful here, DOTA is beyond me. My then 5 year old brother (who will turn 11 in June) understands it better than I do! I've tried so hard, but believe me, this brain I have just won't accept it.
In this book, Janus and his friends chose another online battle arena over DOTA, Terra Anima Legion of Anitos (TALA), a game developed by three Filipinos only known to many as ECS, LOG and JAP. TALA plays a huge part in the narrative of this book. Online games lure kids and every kid at heart, its magnet is something no one can turn away from and that is why Janus and his friends can't stop playing TALA, be it just for bragging rights or self fulfillment, they know they need to find Tala and finish the game.
Like every other game, TALA has different levels and a player must compete and win against Philippine mythical creatures like the Tiyanak on Level 1.
Every player needs a BAT or the Bayani-Anito-Tandem to combat the monsters on every level and because of TALA's intricate game design, every player is assured that no BAT is alike.
A player can choose between a Bagani or a Pusong for their Bayani and their Anito can either be a Diwata or a Nuno.
But the mystery will begin to unfold as Janus and his friend Harold alongside with four other gamers vie for a place in the nationwide TALA tournament and everyone died as they reach a certain level, save for Janus. The question is: Is the role-playing game really instrumental in the death of Harold and the others? Another gamer Joey, who contacted Janus affirms the theory, but should we really believe him?
I had my 10 year old brother read this before I did. I felt he'll appreciate this because he is an RPG addict like the protagonist of the story. He kept talking about the game and how to play it while reading and that to me is a testament that the author did an awesome job on world building. Well, it is safe to say that he created Janus's universe in a way even young readers can grasp and imagine it. I can say that at a time it is almost believable that I myself had to think about its implication to the real world I'm in. What if, what if the legend of the Tiyanak from Tábon were true?
I don't know if you've already read the first chapter but if ever you haven't I suggest you do. It just doesn't open Janus's story but it's a sneak peek into the life he leads -- a look into his family, friends, environment and who Janus really is.
The book is written in third person narrative as opposed to other Young Adult novels that are in first person but this only allowed the author the freedom to explore not only the thoughts of the protagonist but other events as well.
My instincts tell me that I must stop here and just invite you to the book discussion I will lead next week (I shall announce the venue very soon) or else I won't be able to stop myself from blurting out spoilers. Too. Much. Feels. I can't even....
Let me just leave you with this...
I've long concluded that the books written by The Edgar Calabia Samar are not just manuscripts but a mixture of love, passion and hardwork. Reading his work has always been an experience and Si Janus Silang at Ang Tiyanak ng Tábon didn't stray away from that streak. It is exciting, thought-provoking and action-packed I just hate I need to wait until November for the second book.
I've been a gamer myself. I used to go to computer shops to play Counter Strike in elementary, but what really hooked me was Gunbound, I don't know if any of you still remember that game but it has really been popular back in 2006. Don't let its cute GUI fool you because I've met serious gamers around the world in the Gunbound arena. It's not just two players firing at each other, this artillery game is all about strategic calculation. However, as the fuss died down and DOTA captured the hearts of every gamer I know at that, I let the girl in me bloomed into a lady and shied away from RPG and online games. Okay, let's just be truthful here, DOTA is beyond me. My then 5 year old brother (who will turn 11 in June) understands it better than I do! I've tried so hard, but believe me, this brain I have just won't accept it.
In this book, Janus and his friends chose another online battle arena over DOTA, Terra Anima Legion of Anitos (TALA), a game developed by three Filipinos only known to many as ECS, LOG and JAP. TALA plays a huge part in the narrative of this book. Online games lure kids and every kid at heart, its magnet is something no one can turn away from and that is why Janus and his friends can't stop playing TALA, be it just for bragging rights or self fulfillment, they know they need to find Tala and finish the game.
Like every other game, TALA has different levels and a player must compete and win against Philippine mythical creatures like the Tiyanak on Level 1.
Every player needs a BAT or the Bayani-Anito-Tandem to combat the monsters on every level and because of TALA's intricate game design, every player is assured that no BAT is alike.
A player can choose between a Bagani or a Pusong for their Bayani and their Anito can either be a Diwata or a Nuno.
But the mystery will begin to unfold as Janus and his friend Harold alongside with four other gamers vie for a place in the nationwide TALA tournament and everyone died as they reach a certain level, save for Janus. The question is: Is the role-playing game really instrumental in the death of Harold and the others? Another gamer Joey, who contacted Janus affirms the theory, but should we really believe him?
I had my 10 year old brother read this before I did. I felt he'll appreciate this because he is an RPG addict like the protagonist of the story. He kept talking about the game and how to play it while reading and that to me is a testament that the author did an awesome job on world building. Well, it is safe to say that he created Janus's universe in a way even young readers can grasp and imagine it. I can say that at a time it is almost believable that I myself had to think about its implication to the real world I'm in. What if, what if the legend of the Tiyanak from Tábon were true?
I don't know if you've already read the first chapter but if ever you haven't I suggest you do. It just doesn't open Janus's story but it's a sneak peek into the life he leads -- a look into his family, friends, environment and who Janus really is.
The book is written in third person narrative as opposed to other Young Adult novels that are in first person but this only allowed the author the freedom to explore not only the thoughts of the protagonist but other events as well.
My instincts tell me that I must stop here and just invite you to the book discussion I will lead next week (I shall announce the venue very soon) or else I won't be able to stop myself from blurting out spoilers. Too. Much. Feels. I can't even....
Let me just leave you with this...
I've long concluded that the books written by The Edgar Calabia Samar are not just manuscripts but a mixture of love, passion and hardwork. Reading his work has always been an experience and Si Janus Silang at Ang Tiyanak ng Tábon didn't stray away from that streak. It is exciting, thought-provoking and action-packed I just hate I need to wait until November for the second book.
April 29, 2014
"Sa simulang pagbukas ng pinakabagong nobela ni Edgar Calabia Samar ay bigla ka nitong hihigupin sa mundo nitong punó ng hiwaga, dilim, at misteryo. Hindi ka nito pakakawalan, at sa bawat pagpihit ng mga pahina ay waring tinubuan ang mga ito ng matatalim na kuko dahil hindi ka makabibitaw sa palalim nang palalim na kababalaghan, sa giit ng mga tanong sa iyong isipan, sa makapigil-hiningang mga tagpo, at sa mga nakagugulat na rebelasyon patungo sa kasukdulan ng kuwento. Walang ligtas, sasairin nito ang iyong dugo sa tensyon at katuwaan, pati na ang diwa ng iyong himbing sa pagtulog hindi patatahimikin. Ganoon siya kaastig!"
[Basahin ang kabuuan ng aking review, at iba pa, sa aking book blog, Dark Chest of Wonders ]
[Basahin ang kabuuan ng aking review, at iba pa, sa aking book blog, Dark Chest of Wonders ]
May 13, 2014
Nakakatindig balahibo!...Nakakagulantang!...Nakamamatay ang maling akala!...
Kuwento ng magkaibigan na sila Janus, Harold, Boss Serj, Renzo, Mica, atbp.. para sa gaganapin na Online games sa Malakas Internet Shop, malaki ang papremyo at makakasali sa gagawin malaking kompetisyon sa Maynila. Kaya naman dito humuhugot ng pag-asa at pangarap si Janus upang mabigyan din ng regalo ang kanyang mga mahal sa buhay- kanyang mga magulang at ang sinisintang si Mica.
Kung bakit kung sino pa ang mahal mo sa iyong buhay ay sila pa ang dudurog o magbibigay kirot sa iyong puso.
Pero hindi dapat mawalan ng pag-asa dahil ang “TALA” o kaliwanagan ay patuloy na gumagabay sa may mabubuting puso at bayani ng makabagong panahon. Pakaaabangan ang serye na ito. Super level-up talaga! Sa kaastigan ng kwento!
Mag-ingat!, huwag papadaya o mapaglilinlangan dahil maaaring katabi mo na o kaharap mo na pala ang TIYANAK ng Tabon.
Maganda iyong eksena na nagkaharap harap sila Janus, Mang Joey, Renzo, Do-ol, Tiyanak!... Hahamunin ang iyong katapangan!.
Maadik ka sa pagbabasa at talagang hindi mo lulubayan hangga’t hindi mo nalalaman ang tunay na salarin o TIYANAK!. Mababaliw ka kung sino ang dapat na paniwalaan! Kaya’t magiging sunod sunuran ka na lang.
Sasambulat sa iyo ang lihim na sisira at dudurog sa iyong puso. Kailangan ang pokus at tibay ng dibdib dahil baka ka maging kumag at lapain ng Tiyanak.
Para sa akin para itong pinaghalong ideya ng Matrix at X-Men, kaakibat ng mga anito, halimaw, Tiyanak, kuwentong bayan, at mga unang Tao ng Tabon. Liwanag laban sa kampon ng kadiliman.
Napapanahon at maii-ugnay ko ito sa ating;
PULITIKA- dahil nagkalat ang mapanlinlang, katiwalian, at kampon ng mga kadiliman sa korapsyon. Mga lihim ng pagkukunwari sa ating gobyerno na akala mo’y tutulungan ka pero isa pa lang ganid na lobo na pagnanakawan ang kaban ng yaman at nakaririmaring na pagpatay sa mga journalism o media. Marami pala ang nalahian ng TIYANAK hahal
TEKNOLOHIYA- matagal na pa lang na-hahack at nakokopya ang ating mga personal files at napapasukan ng mga virus (Superbug virus) dahil pwedeng kopyahin o gayahin ng Tiyanak kung anu man ang maibigan niya- hayop, bagay, o tao.
KASAYSAYAN- kaya pala binalot ng mga lihim, kataksilan, at katiwalian ang ating Kasaysayan. Ang pagbenta sa bansang Pilipinas sa Espanya at Amerika. Ang mapanlinlang na mga kapwa Katipunero, Hukbalahap, at pagtatraydor ng iba dahil sa pagsanib ng Tiyanak sa kanilang puso.
Kuwento ng magkaibigan na sila Janus, Harold, Boss Serj, Renzo, Mica, atbp.. para sa gaganapin na Online games sa Malakas Internet Shop, malaki ang papremyo at makakasali sa gagawin malaking kompetisyon sa Maynila. Kaya naman dito humuhugot ng pag-asa at pangarap si Janus upang mabigyan din ng regalo ang kanyang mga mahal sa buhay- kanyang mga magulang at ang sinisintang si Mica.
Kung bakit kung sino pa ang mahal mo sa iyong buhay ay sila pa ang dudurog o magbibigay kirot sa iyong puso.
Pero hindi dapat mawalan ng pag-asa dahil ang “TALA” o kaliwanagan ay patuloy na gumagabay sa may mabubuting puso at bayani ng makabagong panahon. Pakaaabangan ang serye na ito. Super level-up talaga! Sa kaastigan ng kwento!
Mag-ingat!, huwag papadaya o mapaglilinlangan dahil maaaring katabi mo na o kaharap mo na pala ang TIYANAK ng Tabon.
Maganda iyong eksena na nagkaharap harap sila Janus, Mang Joey, Renzo, Do-ol, Tiyanak!... Hahamunin ang iyong katapangan!.
Maadik ka sa pagbabasa at talagang hindi mo lulubayan hangga’t hindi mo nalalaman ang tunay na salarin o TIYANAK!. Mababaliw ka kung sino ang dapat na paniwalaan! Kaya’t magiging sunod sunuran ka na lang.
Sasambulat sa iyo ang lihim na sisira at dudurog sa iyong puso. Kailangan ang pokus at tibay ng dibdib dahil baka ka maging kumag at lapain ng Tiyanak.
Para sa akin para itong pinaghalong ideya ng Matrix at X-Men, kaakibat ng mga anito, halimaw, Tiyanak, kuwentong bayan, at mga unang Tao ng Tabon. Liwanag laban sa kampon ng kadiliman.
Napapanahon at maii-ugnay ko ito sa ating;
PULITIKA- dahil nagkalat ang mapanlinlang, katiwalian, at kampon ng mga kadiliman sa korapsyon. Mga lihim ng pagkukunwari sa ating gobyerno na akala mo’y tutulungan ka pero isa pa lang ganid na lobo na pagnanakawan ang kaban ng yaman at nakaririmaring na pagpatay sa mga journalism o media. Marami pala ang nalahian ng TIYANAK hahal
TEKNOLOHIYA- matagal na pa lang na-hahack at nakokopya ang ating mga personal files at napapasukan ng mga virus (Superbug virus) dahil pwedeng kopyahin o gayahin ng Tiyanak kung anu man ang maibigan niya- hayop, bagay, o tao.
KASAYSAYAN- kaya pala binalot ng mga lihim, kataksilan, at katiwalian ang ating Kasaysayan. Ang pagbenta sa bansang Pilipinas sa Espanya at Amerika. Ang mapanlinlang na mga kapwa Katipunero, Hukbalahap, at pagtatraydor ng iba dahil sa pagsanib ng Tiyanak sa kanilang puso.
December 30, 2015
I have read a great deal of positive feedback about this. My fellow blogger reviewed that it is likened to the Harry Potter and Lord of the Ring series of Britain or to anything else out there considered world-class. Someone on Goodreads shouts out to the world that it is “ang lupet! ” . Also, someone outspoken professed that he is willing to die, ignoring the fact that the “Tiyanak” might come out to bite out his throat and stomach; he insisted on giving it 5 stars on Goodreads no matter what you find fault with this. As a matter of fact, with a special mention to Manix Abrera, the master mind of KikoMachine, reviewed that this is one of the most frightening and hair-raising stories he has ever read. He also added that there were the moments that he would turn back because his hair would stand on end in fear that something might have been sneaking behind him. Ok. I am not against their opinions. I totally agree. Whoa! I belong to you folks.
If you are Filipino, I highly recommend you read it. Give it a try. I promise you will like it as well as end up appreciating our very own fiction. First, it is not that cringingly old-fashioned or “baduy “. Do not be mindful of what some “anglicized” hubris put that reading local books makes a dull head of you. They must not even have a reliably scientific term paper to claim so. Rather, you can relate to it, especially if you like playing online games . Besides, the author’s writing style is unique and not that super slang nor super archaic. It is balanced. I may suggest it an oxymoron of informality and formality. Thus, anyone can read it regardless of your age, sex, religion, or whatsoever. In the end, you will put the feather on your cap I bet. Alas, it has not been translated yet for foreign readers as what happened to his short-listed one for Asian Man Literary Prize , Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog after it was catapulted to fame.
I muttered under my breath while reading it that for sure, young -adult readers who are addicted to playing computer games, needless to say the now-defunct , if I am not mistaken, DOTA ( Defense of the Ancient ), will really like it. Besides, it reminded me of my another university classmate who , aside from that he is a closet bookworm because he never brags about reading a lot, is known for addiction to DOTA. I will share it with him once I meet him. I guess he is aware of it.
Granted that it deals with online computer games, and that I do not like reading books more on fantasy since I believe in scientific reasons, I still enjoyed it a whole lot. In fact, I got interested in it because the author conceptualized a very Filipino game. Instead, he created the characters out of famous Filipino myths and legends such as dwende, nuno, aswang, mambabarang, manananggal, tiyanak, bagani , pusong, diwata, and so forth. With these settings, I can totally relate to the story since I have learned all of them. So I got a thrill out of it. My hair stood on end. I was nervous, worried, angry until I burst into tears when the protagonist’s mother died. Shit! It was Christmas when I was reading it.
As the climax of the story goes, I am amazed at Edgar Calabia Samar’s writing skills more. It is wonder how he is able to incorporate the Filipino life and his fondness for Philippine literary figures into such a story. Besides, obviously I can surmise, he makes sure that every angle of the story is consistent to each other without any plot holes about which a reader will be very cynical. And I admit to overlooking some of them just this book is rather remarkable- a tour de force. Period.
For my foreign folks, the center of the story is the Tala which means star . The main characters have to find it (Tala )through an online game, so the melodramatic game will be over. However, since the story is pretty interesting, I do not have the foggiest idea when the author will finish it. Of course, it is understood that he will capitalize on its fame. Besides, he must still have a large panoply of ideas running into his head.
Up next , my review of its part two: Si Janus Silang at ang Labanang Manananggal - Mambabarang.
If you are Filipino, I highly recommend you read it. Give it a try. I promise you will like it as well as end up appreciating our very own fiction. First, it is not that cringingly old-fashioned or “baduy “. Do not be mindful of what some “anglicized” hubris put that reading local books makes a dull head of you. They must not even have a reliably scientific term paper to claim so. Rather, you can relate to it, especially if you like playing online games . Besides, the author’s writing style is unique and not that super slang nor super archaic. It is balanced. I may suggest it an oxymoron of informality and formality. Thus, anyone can read it regardless of your age, sex, religion, or whatsoever. In the end, you will put the feather on your cap I bet. Alas, it has not been translated yet for foreign readers as what happened to his short-listed one for Asian Man Literary Prize , Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog after it was catapulted to fame.
I muttered under my breath while reading it that for sure, young -adult readers who are addicted to playing computer games, needless to say the now-defunct , if I am not mistaken, DOTA ( Defense of the Ancient ), will really like it. Besides, it reminded me of my another university classmate who , aside from that he is a closet bookworm because he never brags about reading a lot, is known for addiction to DOTA. I will share it with him once I meet him. I guess he is aware of it.
Granted that it deals with online computer games, and that I do not like reading books more on fantasy since I believe in scientific reasons, I still enjoyed it a whole lot. In fact, I got interested in it because the author conceptualized a very Filipino game. Instead, he created the characters out of famous Filipino myths and legends such as dwende, nuno, aswang, mambabarang, manananggal, tiyanak, bagani , pusong, diwata, and so forth. With these settings, I can totally relate to the story since I have learned all of them. So I got a thrill out of it. My hair stood on end. I was nervous, worried, angry until I burst into tears when the protagonist’s mother died. Shit! It was Christmas when I was reading it.
As the climax of the story goes, I am amazed at Edgar Calabia Samar’s writing skills more. It is wonder how he is able to incorporate the Filipino life and his fondness for Philippine literary figures into such a story. Besides, obviously I can surmise, he makes sure that every angle of the story is consistent to each other without any plot holes about which a reader will be very cynical. And I admit to overlooking some of them just this book is rather remarkable- a tour de force. Period.
For my foreign folks, the center of the story is the Tala which means star . The main characters have to find it (Tala )through an online game, so the melodramatic game will be over. However, since the story is pretty interesting, I do not have the foggiest idea when the author will finish it. Of course, it is understood that he will capitalize on its fame. Besides, he must still have a large panoply of ideas running into his head.
Up next , my review of its part two: Si Janus Silang at ang Labanang Manananggal - Mambabarang.
June 29, 2016
TANG INA GUYS DI KO KINAYA
HARRY POTTER NG PINAS!!! IT'S IN IT FOR THE LONG SEVEN-BOOK SERIES GAME PROBABLY!!!
BIHIRA LANG MAGKAROON NG Y.A. NA GAWA NG FILIPINO AWTOR NA NASA FILIPINO NA MAY HORROR, MYTHOLOGY, NA NAKASET SA MODERNONG PANAHON. ISA ITONG GEM NG PANITIKAN! ISANG TAGUMPAY!
NAKAKATAWA DIN YUNG PAG "TNX PO" NI JANUS SHET
SOBRANG DAMING TWISTS AND TURNS SHET SABI KO NOTHING IS REAL NOTHING IS REAL FAKK THISSSSSSS
NAKILALA KO SI SIR EGAY, ANG AWTOR, SA LIRA, SA BOOKSIGNING TWO YEARS AGO, SA MGA EVENTS SA UST, UP, AT ATENEO. AT NGAYON KO LANG NAISIPAN BASAHIN ITONG MASTERPIECE NIYA. MAY CLASSMATE DIN KASI AKONG GUMAWA NG THESIS TUNGKOL DITO SA LIBRO NA 'TO BUKOD PA SA ISA KONG CLASSMATE NA GINAWAN NG POSTMODERN READING ANG IBANG NOBELA NITONG SI SAMAR. KAYA MEDYO INVESTED AKO SA AWTOR.
Ang pinakamasarap pa dito basahin: accessible ang language. Hindi ito 'malalim,' hindi masyadong Bibilical o nangangangaral. Isang adventure siya na para sa mga kabataan ngayon.
Hindi ako nakasubaybay sa Harry Potter kaya di ko alam kung gaano katagal ang paghihintay ko sa sususnod na libro pero inip na inip na ako. Haha. Pag-uwi kong Pilipinas next year pupunta ako sa bookstore, bibilhin ko kaagad ang sequel at sana ang 3rd book na din.
Love you, Sir Egay. Crush ko ang pagsusulat mo!
HARRY POTTER NG PINAS!!! IT'S IN IT FOR THE LONG SEVEN-BOOK SERIES GAME PROBABLY!!!
BIHIRA LANG MAGKAROON NG Y.A. NA GAWA NG FILIPINO AWTOR NA NASA FILIPINO NA MAY HORROR, MYTHOLOGY, NA NAKASET SA MODERNONG PANAHON. ISA ITONG GEM NG PANITIKAN! ISANG TAGUMPAY!
NAKAKATAWA DIN YUNG PAG "TNX PO" NI JANUS SHET
SOBRANG DAMING TWISTS AND TURNS SHET SABI KO NOTHING IS REAL NOTHING IS REAL FAKK THISSSSSSS
NAKILALA KO SI SIR EGAY, ANG AWTOR, SA LIRA, SA BOOKSIGNING TWO YEARS AGO, SA MGA EVENTS SA UST, UP, AT ATENEO. AT NGAYON KO LANG NAISIPAN BASAHIN ITONG MASTERPIECE NIYA. MAY CLASSMATE DIN KASI AKONG GUMAWA NG THESIS TUNGKOL DITO SA LIBRO NA 'TO BUKOD PA SA ISA KONG CLASSMATE NA GINAWAN NG POSTMODERN READING ANG IBANG NOBELA NITONG SI SAMAR. KAYA MEDYO INVESTED AKO SA AWTOR.
Ang pinakamasarap pa dito basahin: accessible ang language. Hindi ito 'malalim,' hindi masyadong Bibilical o nangangangaral. Isang adventure siya na para sa mga kabataan ngayon.
Hindi ako nakasubaybay sa Harry Potter kaya di ko alam kung gaano katagal ang paghihintay ko sa sususnod na libro pero inip na inip na ako. Haha. Pag-uwi kong Pilipinas next year pupunta ako sa bookstore, bibilhin ko kaagad ang sequel at sana ang 3rd book na din.
Love you, Sir Egay. Crush ko ang pagsusulat mo!
May 1, 2014
Really good and quick read! Dati ko nang sinusundan ang mga writers na nagsasa-contemporary fiction ng mga alamat, legends, at characters sa Pinoy mythology. Nabasa ko na ang Mythology Class ni Arnold Arre, at sinusundan ko rin ang uniberso ni Alexandra Trese na gawa nina Budjette Tan at Kajo Baldissimo.
Tapos, this. THIS! Buhay na buhay nga ang mito at mga kwentong bayan ng Pilipinas.
Gaya ng inaasahan, bitin ang book 1 na ito. Sana naman, hindi ako maghihintay ng super tagal bago lumabas ang book 2. At dahil bata pa naman si Edgar Samar, hindi ako natatakot na mag-aala-Robert Jordan ito, kung sakali mang umabot sa 13 o higit pang libro ang series na ito!
Wala pa akong ibang nababasang ganitong libro na nakasulat sa Filipino kaya ang masasabi ko lang: astig ka Janus Silang. Hanapin mo yang tiyanak na yan at ipatikim mo ang parusang dapat niyang pagdusahan.
Tapos, this. THIS! Buhay na buhay nga ang mito at mga kwentong bayan ng Pilipinas.
Gaya ng inaasahan, bitin ang book 1 na ito. Sana naman, hindi ako maghihintay ng super tagal bago lumabas ang book 2. At dahil bata pa naman si Edgar Samar, hindi ako natatakot na mag-aala-Robert Jordan ito, kung sakali mang umabot sa 13 o higit pang libro ang series na ito!
Wala pa akong ibang nababasang ganitong libro na nakasulat sa Filipino kaya ang masasabi ko lang: astig ka Janus Silang. Hanapin mo yang tiyanak na yan at ipatikim mo ang parusang dapat niyang pagdusahan.
August 11, 2016
I was hooked since I first heard the idea of Janus Silang from Sir Egay in Laguna. He said that he was planning a book about a hero set for young readers. His previous published books are mind-boggling metafiction Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog and Kasunod ng 909. I also read his short story, and his literary criticism book Halos Isang Buhay.
As a fan of Harry Potter, I am interested to read Janus Silang series. 'What's the connection?', you may ask. Harry Potter is set for young readers involving magical world of wizards and witches. Their stories and myths, however, are different from our culture. For instance, the witches in our culture, mangkukulam, are not quite charming and different in foreign cultures.
Now that I think of it, why does my favorite book series a foreign one? I read it and got addicted to it since I was little. The better answer for it is simple: books like Janus Silang are what we are missing. Filipinos, especially the generation nowadays, know about vampires, werewolves, and other mythical creatures originated from other countries. How about the mythical creatures from Philippine folklores and urban tales? We don't have vampires, we have manananggal. We don't have werewolves, we have tikbalang. We also have nuno, kapre, tiktik, and tiyanak, among others. So why don't we read and learn about them? (Plus, vampires are so overrated! haha)
Another thing I like about the book is that Janus is real. Like people in this generation, he is into the bermuda triangle of technology such as mobile phones, computers, and internet. He gets addicted to games, and mutters bad words. I like how brave the author is to put profanity in a novel for young readers. It is a contributory factor that makes the character of Janus believable. Moreover, he is a common teenager, he has flaws.
Reading Janus Silang is like drinking a glass of cold water while the sun is burning hot in the middle of summer. It is easy-flowing and refreshing read. After drinking it, it will make you want more. Yes, series leave you hanging anyway.
I can not share the plot without giving a spoiler so I won't. It will be the best for you to read it. Read it during daytime. It gave me the creeps.
~~~***~~~
This is too much to take. I thought this is for young readers...? ._.
_φ(･_･ Dear Janus, your life is a lie. Kbye.
As a fan of Harry Potter, I am interested to read Janus Silang series. 'What's the connection?', you may ask. Harry Potter is set for young readers involving magical world of wizards and witches. Their stories and myths, however, are different from our culture. For instance, the witches in our culture, mangkukulam, are not quite charming and different in foreign cultures.
Now that I think of it, why does my favorite book series a foreign one? I read it and got addicted to it since I was little. The better answer for it is simple: books like Janus Silang are what we are missing. Filipinos, especially the generation nowadays, know about vampires, werewolves, and other mythical creatures originated from other countries. How about the mythical creatures from Philippine folklores and urban tales? We don't have vampires, we have manananggal. We don't have werewolves, we have tikbalang. We also have nuno, kapre, tiktik, and tiyanak, among others. So why don't we read and learn about them? (Plus, vampires are so overrated! haha)
Another thing I like about the book is that Janus is real. Like people in this generation, he is into the bermuda triangle of technology such as mobile phones, computers, and internet. He gets addicted to games, and mutters bad words. I like how brave the author is to put profanity in a novel for young readers. It is a contributory factor that makes the character of Janus believable. Moreover, he is a common teenager, he has flaws.
Reading Janus Silang is like drinking a glass of cold water while the sun is burning hot in the middle of summer. It is easy-flowing and refreshing read. After drinking it, it will make you want more. Yes, series leave you hanging anyway.
I can not share the plot without giving a spoiler so I won't. It will be the best for you to read it. Read it during daytime. It gave me the creeps.
~~~***~~~
This is too much to take. I thought this is for young readers...? ._.
_φ(･_･ Dear Janus, your life is a lie. Kbye.
June 22, 2014
A big indicator of a successful young adult novel is that it transcends across all ages. Edgar Samar's Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon (JS1) does that and manages to stand out above others in an overcrowded sea of the YA genre. And yes, the book is written in Filipino. This is recommended for everybody.
JS1 has a solid story which fuses the modern social media culture with our timeless folklore. That one is so neat! You can feel some elements coming from other stories but let me tell you that Janus Silang is not a ripoff. It is smart, original, and Filipino. It has captured the hearts of Filipino nerds and gamers because we have long fantasized to become the protagonists of the game we love. Oh yeah, I want to have powers, but never wanted to be in Janus Silang's situation. In a YA category, this is so dark and graphic! You will be reading mysterious deaths, violent deaths and gruesome deaths. So be ready.
You also have to prepare yourself with the book's climax and cliffhanger ending. Hands down to Samar because it made me want to read the second book.
Don't get me wrong with the 3 stars though. Janus Silang has all the potential to become a great success in modern Filipino literature, and by that I don't just mean sales success, but a material worthy of academic discourse and a gold standard for a long line of YA books. Thus if there are hiccups, then remedies should be given as early as the second book. First is that JS1 has way so many sentence fragments, too many that it should be pointed out first. Nope, this is not a grammar nazi bash. Fans and critics alike will expect more from the series. If this is not addressed then more of them will notice this. I suppose editing would solve it, which I believe Adarna House can do. The conversations also has a tendency to become monologic. Take for example the part were someone is telling that certain prehistoric story - imagine it being an actual conversation. There are also small inconsistent details, say, I believe that Balanga is in Bataan then why is it located south of Manila (unless I am ignorant to know that there is indeed a Balanga in the south)? Three stars may just as well mean that the reservation I give to Janus Silang is simply because the saga has even more to give in its next installments.
To Edgar Samar, great job sir! I know you can read this because you are a Bagani.
JS1 has a solid story which fuses the modern social media culture with our timeless folklore. That one is so neat! You can feel some elements coming from other stories but let me tell you that Janus Silang is not a ripoff. It is smart, original, and Filipino. It has captured the hearts of Filipino nerds and gamers because we have long fantasized to become the protagonists of the game we love. Oh yeah, I want to have powers, but never wanted to be in Janus Silang's situation. In a YA category, this is so dark and graphic! You will be reading mysterious deaths, violent deaths and gruesome deaths. So be ready.
You also have to prepare yourself with the book's climax and cliffhanger ending. Hands down to Samar because it made me want to read the second book.
Don't get me wrong with the 3 stars though. Janus Silang has all the potential to become a great success in modern Filipino literature, and by that I don't just mean sales success, but a material worthy of academic discourse and a gold standard for a long line of YA books. Thus if there are hiccups, then remedies should be given as early as the second book. First is that JS1 has way so many sentence fragments, too many that it should be pointed out first. Nope, this is not a grammar nazi bash. Fans and critics alike will expect more from the series. If this is not addressed then more of them will notice this. I suppose editing would solve it, which I believe Adarna House can do. The conversations also has a tendency to become monologic. Take for example the part were someone is telling that certain prehistoric story - imagine it being an actual conversation. There are also small inconsistent details, say, I believe that Balanga is in Bataan then why is it located south of Manila (unless I am ignorant to know that there is indeed a Balanga in the south)? Three stars may just as well mean that the reservation I give to Janus Silang is simply because the saga has even more to give in its next installments.
To Edgar Samar, great job sir! I know you can read this because you are a Bagani.
September 24, 2014
One of the works of Egay that is very much linear and appealing to the kids. Combining elemental characters and Techie specifics in a light-read and very Filipino prose.
May 25, 2014
I loved many things in this book. I loved the tone, the pacing, the writing itself because: I found it amusing (the Doris Bigornia and Noli de Castro part. And the way Janus thinks? 'Yung sa first paragraph ng book, Pinoy na Pinoy ^___^), I also thought it was creepy (Tiyanak's parting words: "Bye, Kuya." And the way Janus' mother died, I don't even want to go there), there are a lot of mysteries to unravel, not to mention suspenseful ... etc.
I loved that with this first installment, there are tales within a tale.
However, around 65% into the book, I stopped reading. Nahulaan ko kasi ang magiging ending. I'm not saying that the book is predictable, I'm pretty sure most of the readers--if not all--were surprised of the twist.
I'm not saying that I didn't like the ending either. I did. Marami nga kasing twist.
Pero sa totoo lang, pagkabasa ko sa part na nagbabasa ng komiks si Janus at natuklasan noong character sa komiks na si Jacinta, sa p.50, na tiyanak ang bunso niyang anak - napa-OMG ako haha. Sabi ko sa asawa ko, ayoko na. Haha. Naisip ko na kasi agad na tiyanak nga si Juno. Tapos after several pages, nabanggit pa na hindi sila magkamukha. Tapos, mga bandang 2/3 sa book, binanggit pa ni Renzo na isa lang ang tiyanak at laging anyong bata. Huminto ako sa pagbabasa. Hahaha! I was actually supposed to post review of the book early. Kaso sabi ko, kailangan ko munang maka-get over sa ending ng book haha. Dapat, kapag nabasa ko na 'yung ending, handa na ang loob ko. Haha. Nahulaan ko na nga kasing walang matitira sa pamilya kundi si Janus.
It's just ... I really liked Janus' relationship with Juno. They were really, really close and I liked that Janus loved his brother very much. I still wonder how it would have been like, if I grew up with my brother ... and reading that part, I was like, siguro ganito 'yun ... kagaya nila.
The twist is really brilliant, seriously. But, a part of me disliked that even in fiction, that it was like that: sad. Ako na ang masyadong seryoso sa binabasa ko. Haha ^___^
Anyway, I'm really looking forward to reading book 2.
I loved that with this first installment, there are tales within a tale.
However, around 65% into the book, I stopped reading. Nahulaan ko kasi ang magiging ending. I'm not saying that the book is predictable, I'm pretty sure most of the readers--if not all--were surprised of the twist.
I'm not saying that I didn't like the ending either. I did. Marami nga kasing twist.
Pero sa totoo lang, pagkabasa ko sa part na nagbabasa ng komiks si Janus at natuklasan noong character sa komiks na si Jacinta, sa p.50, na tiyanak ang bunso niyang anak - napa-OMG ako haha. Sabi ko sa asawa ko, ayoko na. Haha. Naisip ko na kasi agad na tiyanak nga si Juno. Tapos after several pages, nabanggit pa na hindi sila magkamukha. Tapos, mga bandang 2/3 sa book, binanggit pa ni Renzo na isa lang ang tiyanak at laging anyong bata. Huminto ako sa pagbabasa. Hahaha! I was actually supposed to post review of the book early. Kaso sabi ko, kailangan ko munang maka-get over sa ending ng book haha. Dapat, kapag nabasa ko na 'yung ending, handa na ang loob ko. Haha. Nahulaan ko na nga kasing walang matitira sa pamilya kundi si Janus.
It's just ... I really liked Janus' relationship with Juno. They were really, really close and I liked that Janus loved his brother very much. I still wonder how it would have been like, if I grew up with my brother ... and reading that part, I was like, siguro ganito 'yun ... kagaya nila.
The twist is really brilliant, seriously. But, a part of me disliked that even in fiction, that it was like that: sad. Ako na ang masyadong seryoso sa binabasa ko. Haha ^___^
Anyway, I'm really looking forward to reading book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2014
Here are the reasons why Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tábon is a MUST HAVE in your bookshelf:
The book and cover. Seriously, when I saw this picture of my friend with her copy of the book (and later on the author in a magazine interview), I had to say it was really pretty. It made me look for it in my nearest book store, and when I finally held it in my hands, it was way more amazing—the cover was fantastic, the font typography, size, and spacing inside the book were just right.
The story and characters. It has references to online games, local mythology, and Filipino values (but not the preachy type). But more than just the references, the prose was written in a casual tone that made it very easy to relate to the character. I loved the back story storytelling that gave me a major spook factor. I really loved how well the characters were developed, the ingenious foreshadowing, and the intricate design of the overall story that was made richer by subplots. It had many levels of subplots, but I never felt lost or had too much information in my head. It made the story three-dimensional, believable, and plausible given our local culture that is steeped in folklore.
It's not trying to be Harry Potter. Sure, there may be some similarities, but personally I think the world of Janus Silang is a league on its own, and it's something that is uniquely Filipino. This is the reason why I fell in love with this book. I hope these kinds of books will perpetuate in local bookshelves and provide readers, regardless of age bracket, with more options to choose from.
Book price. For a student-friendly price of P175, you get an awesome story and so much FEELS. This is the epitome of a steal. You can't find it anywhere else.
The book and cover. Seriously, when I saw this picture of my friend with her copy of the book (and later on the author in a magazine interview), I had to say it was really pretty. It made me look for it in my nearest book store, and when I finally held it in my hands, it was way more amazing—the cover was fantastic, the font typography, size, and spacing inside the book were just right.
The story and characters. It has references to online games, local mythology, and Filipino values (but not the preachy type). But more than just the references, the prose was written in a casual tone that made it very easy to relate to the character. I loved the back story storytelling that gave me a major spook factor. I really loved how well the characters were developed, the ingenious foreshadowing, and the intricate design of the overall story that was made richer by subplots. It had many levels of subplots, but I never felt lost or had too much information in my head. It made the story three-dimensional, believable, and plausible given our local culture that is steeped in folklore.
It's not trying to be Harry Potter. Sure, there may be some similarities, but personally I think the world of Janus Silang is a league on its own, and it's something that is uniquely Filipino. This is the reason why I fell in love with this book. I hope these kinds of books will perpetuate in local bookshelves and provide readers, regardless of age bracket, with more options to choose from.
Book price. For a student-friendly price of P175, you get an awesome story and so much FEELS. This is the epitome of a steal. You can't find it anywhere else.
April 7, 2015
Mula sa Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog na punong puno na kahiwagaan at hindi talaga inaasahang mga tagpo. Akala ko ay makakatakas na ako sa walang hiyang tiyanak na 'yan. Dahil dito sa unang YA ni Edgar Calabia Samar naisisip ko na makakabasa ako ng mas magaan at kapanapanabik na kwento ng mga kabataan. Tumpak ang mas magaan. Tama ang kapanapanabik at talaga namang para sa kabataan ang kwento ni Janus Silang. Ngunit hindi ko inaasahan na bibigyan ako ng hilakbot at katakot-takot na takot nitong kwentong ito. Mahusay ang pagkakalahad at mararamdamam mo talaga na parang kasama ka sa kwento. Katabing naglalaro si Janus, kaharap na nakikininig sa mga kwento ni Manong Joey, at kasamang hinaharap ang walang hiyang tiyanak.
Aabangan ko talaga ang mga susunod sa isyu ng Janus Silang.
At sinong may sabing walang maidudulot na maganda ang paglalaro ng Online Games? Tara TALA tayo!
Aabangan ko talaga ang mga susunod sa isyu ng Janus Silang.
At sinong may sabing walang maidudulot na maganda ang paglalaro ng Online Games? Tara TALA tayo!
May 18, 2014
This book is 'WOW!'. It was beyond that, but I am running out of words to describe it. This book took me to different levels. When you think you already know what will happen, that is when it will take on a dramatic change. And it just does not end with one surprise. It holds a lot of surprises that will make you go weak, scared, confused, intrigued and thinking all at the same time. I dunno what else to say, but i am definitely going to grab the second book!
October 5, 2015
May mga inconsistencies at mga shortcuts ('tiyanak ex machina'), pero oks lang, nag-enjoy naman ako kahit papaano. Pwedeng pwede ipabasa sa mga teenager, lalo na yung mga adik sa online games.
March 6, 2018
Ang savage nung Tiyanak chapter, jusko O.O
October 28, 2024
Decided to read this —that made use of imagined Filipino mythology-themed role playing video game (RPG) as center to pursue a plot— when I found the author on Twitter recently hinting at the likelihood of it being adapted for a feature show. That was an added weight to a friend's prior recommendation of this book series. Good thing, copies were on sale during online book fairs in the past months. The narrative is in informal Filipino and so I would be switching to the review in the same tongue.
***
Bilang batang 90's, hulugang-piso-piso, Nintendo Gameboy at Play Station lang ang inabot ng hilig ko sa paglalaro ng video games. Hindi na tumuloy sa mga madudugong RPG pagtuntong ng high school. Ganunpaman, nakasasabik talagang pairalin ang mitolohiyang Pilipino sa RPG; sa pagkamalikhain ba naman ng mundong iyon na pinalawig nang husto ng ating mga ninuno. Katunayan nga, mayroong nang ini-release na RPG gamit ang parehong konsepto noong 2003, ang Anito: Defend a Land Enraged . At noong isang taon, nabalita ang ginagawang Balete City .
Gawi sa kwento, hindi ko ikakaila na may mga pagkakataong habang nagbabasa ay tumitindig ang mga balahibo ko dahil sa kilabot sa minsa'y kinatakutan kong mga lamanlupa, bilang bata. Nagustuhan ko ang detalye sa paglalarawan ng larong TALA. Kahit hindi ka gamer, maeengganyo kang usisain ang mga ito: Sino kaya ang pipiliin mong heroes? Anong makikita sa iba-ibang levels? Isa pang kagandahan nitong kwento ay papagsasaliksikin ka sa mga nabanggit na nilalang ng mitolohiya na hindi mo kilala; kung nasaan ba ang Kweba ng Tabon na nabasa natin sa textbook. Nakahihimok 'to sa ganoong aspekto.
Nga lang, ang hindi ko masyadong nakagiliwan ay ang tagal ng pagtataka ng bida bago dumako ang kwento sa paghimay ng ibig sabihin ng mga nangyari. Isa pa, naalangan ako sa
Sa kabila ng mga nabanggit, mungkahi kong basahin ito ng may nais pang kilalanin ang Philippine mythology na hindi nabibigyang pansin sa mga pampanitikang Pilipinong aralin sa paaralan. Malapit na rin ang undas, sa mga gusto ng katatakutan.
Rating: 3.5/5
***
Bilang batang 90's, hulugang-piso-piso, Nintendo Gameboy at Play Station lang ang inabot ng hilig ko sa paglalaro ng video games. Hindi na tumuloy sa mga madudugong RPG pagtuntong ng high school. Ganunpaman, nakasasabik talagang pairalin ang mitolohiyang Pilipino sa RPG; sa pagkamalikhain ba naman ng mundong iyon na pinalawig nang husto ng ating mga ninuno. Katunayan nga, mayroong nang ini-release na RPG gamit ang parehong konsepto noong 2003, ang Anito: Defend a Land Enraged . At noong isang taon, nabalita ang ginagawang Balete City .
Gawi sa kwento, hindi ko ikakaila na may mga pagkakataong habang nagbabasa ay tumitindig ang mga balahibo ko dahil sa kilabot sa minsa'y kinatakutan kong mga lamanlupa, bilang bata. Nagustuhan ko ang detalye sa paglalarawan ng larong TALA. Kahit hindi ka gamer, maeengganyo kang usisain ang mga ito: Sino kaya ang pipiliin mong heroes? Anong makikita sa iba-ibang levels? Isa pang kagandahan nitong kwento ay papagsasaliksikin ka sa mga nabanggit na nilalang ng mitolohiya na hindi mo kilala; kung nasaan ba ang Kweba ng Tabon na nabasa natin sa textbook. Nakahihimok 'to sa ganoong aspekto.
Nga lang, ang hindi ko masyadong nakagiliwan ay ang tagal ng pagtataka ng bida bago dumako ang kwento sa paghimay ng ibig sabihin ng mga nangyari. Isa pa, naalangan ako sa
Sa kabila ng mga nabanggit, mungkahi kong basahin ito ng may nais pang kilalanin ang Philippine mythology na hindi nabibigyang pansin sa mga pampanitikang Pilipinong aralin sa paaralan. Malapit na rin ang undas, sa mga gusto ng katatakutan.
Rating: 3.5/5
March 31, 2015
Sinimulan kong basahin ang librong ito na may mataas na expectations. Marahil dahil sa mga reviews na nababasa ko sa blog tour ng libro. Binasako ito ngunit itinigil pagkatapos ng Pitumpung pahina . Sinimulan ko ulit basahan pagkatapos ng ilang lingo ngunit tumigil na naman ako sa kalagitnaan . Sa pangatlong ulit ko lang siya natapos.
Maganda yung libro ngunit may isa akong problema o isang salita para sa unang parte :TEDIOUS. Masyadong mabagal ang unang parte na palagi akong nababagot sa kalagitnaan ng deskripsiyon o pag uusap sa pagitan ng mga karakters. Maiksi lang ang libro kung ikukumpara mo sa ibang libro kaya inasahan kong mas masbilis ang pacing niya .
Oo kinakailangan ngang ipakita ang pagkagusto ni janus kay kaklase ngunit masyado siyang naging sentral sa unang parte na napabagal niya ang pacing.Wala masyadong action scenes na makikita sa libro na inaasahan ko sana sa libro pero ayos lang.
Marami rin akong napansin na scenes na ang haba haba ng narration na nakakabagot na . Naisip ko na pwede bang flashback nalang o ibang type of narration para manlang hindi ma bog down yung book.
Madami din akong bagay na inisip na sana eh mas naayos para mas naging magandaang libro.
Nasasayangan ako sa magandang premise ng libro o marahil nag expect lang ako na magiging mala Harry Potter of the Philippines.
Maganda yung libro ngunit may isa akong problema o isang salita para sa unang parte :TEDIOUS. Masyadong mabagal ang unang parte na palagi akong nababagot sa kalagitnaan ng deskripsiyon o pag uusap sa pagitan ng mga karakters. Maiksi lang ang libro kung ikukumpara mo sa ibang libro kaya inasahan kong mas masbilis ang pacing niya .
Oo kinakailangan ngang ipakita ang pagkagusto ni janus kay kaklase ngunit masyado siyang naging sentral sa unang parte na napabagal niya ang pacing.Wala masyadong action scenes na makikita sa libro na inaasahan ko sana sa libro pero ayos lang.
Marami rin akong napansin na scenes na ang haba haba ng narration na nakakabagot na . Naisip ko na pwede bang flashback nalang o ibang type of narration para manlang hindi ma bog down yung book.
Madami din akong bagay na inisip na sana eh mas naayos para mas naging magandaang libro.
Nasasayangan ako sa magandang premise ng libro o marahil nag expect lang ako na magiging mala Harry Potter of the Philippines.
August 25, 2021
Matagal ko ng gusto basahin 'tong series na 'to. But, when I started it, sobrang nahirapan ako. It took me weeks before I even finished it.
**SPOILER ALERT**
The pacing was a bit slow. Ang daming fillers on the first half of the book. Then daming layers ng flashbacks, which I kindah lost somehow. Yung mga convo and side stories pwedeng paiksiin pa. Like nung time na nagkwento c Renzo about his experience with the Tiyanak, I don't think thats how we will tell a story. Parang gusto ko bigla pumunta sa loob ng libro at sabihan c renzo na, "hey! cut it short, dun n tayo sa main topic!" Madaming ganitong eksena which make it more dragging basahin.
Overall nagenjoy naman ako. Di ko inexpect ung ending. Will probably continue the rest of the series.
**SPOILER ALERT**
The pacing was a bit slow. Ang daming fillers on the first half of the book. Then daming layers ng flashbacks, which I kindah lost somehow. Yung mga convo and side stories pwedeng paiksiin pa. Like nung time na nagkwento c Renzo about his experience with the Tiyanak, I don't think thats how we will tell a story. Parang gusto ko bigla pumunta sa loob ng libro at sabihan c renzo na, "hey! cut it short, dun n tayo sa main topic!" Madaming ganitong eksena which make it more dragging basahin.
Overall nagenjoy naman ako. Di ko inexpect ung ending. Will probably continue the rest of the series.
May 8, 2019
Ihanda ang puso sa dilang-karayom ng mananggal. Masakit at mabigat ang huling kabanata.
Buong rebyu kapag naka-recover na ang puso.
Update:
Kakaiba ang konsepto ng kwento. Hindi ito pang karaniwang horror book. Iba ang istorya ng pagkakapresent sa lokal myth.
Noong una akala ko nakakabagot basahin kasi ang haba ng build up ng mundo at character ni Janus. Nababagalan ako pero nakaka-intriga din. Madami akong nabuong "bakit questions"... iyon ang naging motibasyon ko hanggang makarating ako sa parte ng big reveal. Adrenaline na ang naging drive ko sa pagbabasa.
Bbgyan ko sana ng 5 na bituin. Kaso nakulangan ako sa action. Yun na lang kulang at fav book ko na din to.
#SarilingAtin
Buong rebyu kapag naka-recover na ang puso.
Update:
Kakaiba ang konsepto ng kwento. Hindi ito pang karaniwang horror book. Iba ang istorya ng pagkakapresent sa lokal myth.
Noong una akala ko nakakabagot basahin kasi ang haba ng build up ng mundo at character ni Janus. Nababagalan ako pero nakaka-intriga din. Madami akong nabuong "bakit questions"... iyon ang naging motibasyon ko hanggang makarating ako sa parte ng big reveal. Adrenaline na ang naging drive ko sa pagbabasa.
Bbgyan ko sana ng 5 na bituin. Kaso nakulangan ako sa action. Yun na lang kulang at fav book ko na din to.
#SarilingAtin
March 19, 2022
Dahil Filipino YA ito, Filipino ang wika ng review ko. Sa totoo lang iniisip ko parin kung ano nga ba ang nararamdaman ko tungkol sa libro na ito. Noong una sabe ko, Aba. Parang Bob Ong magsulat ah. Bob Ong na walang focus kasi ang daming sabit sabit at nagkakanda ligaw ligaw na minsan ang mga kwento. Pero nung lumaon, naintindihan ko na kung bakit kailangan ng mga sangay sangay na kwento na iyon. Kasi pala lahat konektado. Lahat pala may kakapuntahan sa huli. Buong Book Talk sa blog sa mga susunod na araw. Good Job Sir Edgar!
September 1, 2023
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ano pa bang ire-review ko dito? Sapat na ang sangkatutak na exclamation point.
Ano pa bang ire-review ko dito? Sapat na ang sangkatutak na exclamation point.
December 13, 2016
Galing!
Maliit na libro pero ang lawak ng mundo. Maganda ang structure ng storya at pagkakasulat. May suspense, at nagandahan ako sa pagkahalo nang modernong panahon at folklore.
Too bad I don't own a copy of the sequel yet. O binasa ko na agad pagkatapos ko nito.
Maliit na libro pero ang lawak ng mundo. Maganda ang structure ng storya at pagkakasulat. May suspense, at nagandahan ako sa pagkahalo nang modernong panahon at folklore.
Too bad I don't own a copy of the sequel yet. O binasa ko na agad pagkatapos ko nito.
May 5, 2015
IMAGINE ME HOLDING THIS BOOK IN MY HANDS, WAVING IT RIGHT IN YOUR FACE, SCREAMING "BUY THIS BOOK! BUY THIS BOOK!"
December 27, 2021
Tangnang ending yurn! Huhuhaha
September 16, 2017
A very well written book. Page turner, I want more. Hindi ako pwedeng matapos sa isang chapter, hangga't Hindi nasasagot ang mga katanungan ko. Sobrang amazing ng mga twists and turns of events. Sobrang nakakagulat. Nakakahagis unan itong book na ito, literally Kong binato ang unan ko sa wall nung nalaman ko ang lahat ng nangyari.
Magsisimula na akong basahin ang book 2. Amazing! five staaaaaars!
Magsisimula na akong basahin ang book 2. Amazing! five staaaaaars!
August 17, 2016
Reposting from Facebook:
Nang mapadaan ako sa Katipunan noong isang araw, naisip kong pumunta ng National Bookstore para dumampot ng librong mababasa habang naghihintay sa kung anuman (pagkain, shuttle, kaibigan, etc). Una akong napadpad sa Bestsellers Section at agad-agad kinuha ang librong si Paulo Coelho ang may akda. Sa kasamaang palad, kulang 'yong perang dala ko para mabili iyon kaya naman nag-ikot-ikot ako sa iba pang section at nagbaka-sakaling makakuha ng katulad na libro sa mas mababang halaga.
Pagdating ko sa Philippine Fiction stand ng National, nakaagaw ng atensyon ko itong librong pinamagatang, "Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon," na talaga namang book cover pa lang e mapapaisip ka na talaga kung ano ang laman. Matagal-tagal na rin akong hindi nakakapagbasa ng librong katha sa Filipino kaya binili ko na rin ito kaagad para sa presyong halos 1/4 ng unang librong nakita ko.
Bago ko pa man buksan ang libro, na-judge ko na ito nang kaunti base sa pagbasa ko ng "Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog" na si Sir Egay din ang nagsulat. Naisip kong hindi ako masyadong makaka-relate dito dahil setting pa lang ng istorya, walang-wala nang maitutulad sa experiences ko. PERO LAKING GULAT KO NANG BUKLATIN AT BASAHIN KO ANG UNANG PAHINA. Walang anu-ano'y bumalik ako sa pagkabata; lahat ng alaala at karanasan ko mula high school e pinaalala't pinadama sa akin. Hindi ko in-expect dadalhin ako ni Sir Egay sa setting ng buhay ko na akala ko'y parte na lamang ng nakaraan.
Dahil dito, mabilis kong natapos ang libro nang wala pang kalahating araw. Masasabi kong isa itong Obra Maestra - future ng Young Adult genre ng Filipino Literature. Instant classic. SOLID. Naipagsama-sama niya ang mga tema ng mitolohiya, teknolohiya, pagbibinata't pagdadalaga, pamilya, at pagkakaibigan nang walang palya. At katulad din ng ibang serye, nakakabitin ang unang librong ito. Ang totoo nga e halos lahat ng sulok ng internet nahukay ko na para mabasa lang lahat ng may kinalaman sa libro (fan art, reviews, forums, Philippine folklore, etc.). Kaya naman siguradong hinding-hindi ko ipagpapalit ang oras na ginastos ko para mabasa ang librong ito.
Aabangan ko talaga ang susunod na libro. Buti na lang kulang 'yong pera ko nang araw na iyon. Buti na lang talaga.:)
Nang mapadaan ako sa Katipunan noong isang araw, naisip kong pumunta ng National Bookstore para dumampot ng librong mababasa habang naghihintay sa kung anuman (pagkain, shuttle, kaibigan, etc). Una akong napadpad sa Bestsellers Section at agad-agad kinuha ang librong si Paulo Coelho ang may akda. Sa kasamaang palad, kulang 'yong perang dala ko para mabili iyon kaya naman nag-ikot-ikot ako sa iba pang section at nagbaka-sakaling makakuha ng katulad na libro sa mas mababang halaga.
Pagdating ko sa Philippine Fiction stand ng National, nakaagaw ng atensyon ko itong librong pinamagatang, "Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon," na talaga namang book cover pa lang e mapapaisip ka na talaga kung ano ang laman. Matagal-tagal na rin akong hindi nakakapagbasa ng librong katha sa Filipino kaya binili ko na rin ito kaagad para sa presyong halos 1/4 ng unang librong nakita ko.
Bago ko pa man buksan ang libro, na-judge ko na ito nang kaunti base sa pagbasa ko ng "Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog" na si Sir Egay din ang nagsulat. Naisip kong hindi ako masyadong makaka-relate dito dahil setting pa lang ng istorya, walang-wala nang maitutulad sa experiences ko. PERO LAKING GULAT KO NANG BUKLATIN AT BASAHIN KO ANG UNANG PAHINA. Walang anu-ano'y bumalik ako sa pagkabata; lahat ng alaala at karanasan ko mula high school e pinaalala't pinadama sa akin. Hindi ko in-expect dadalhin ako ni Sir Egay sa setting ng buhay ko na akala ko'y parte na lamang ng nakaraan.
Dahil dito, mabilis kong natapos ang libro nang wala pang kalahating araw. Masasabi kong isa itong Obra Maestra - future ng Young Adult genre ng Filipino Literature. Instant classic. SOLID. Naipagsama-sama niya ang mga tema ng mitolohiya, teknolohiya, pagbibinata't pagdadalaga, pamilya, at pagkakaibigan nang walang palya. At katulad din ng ibang serye, nakakabitin ang unang librong ito. Ang totoo nga e halos lahat ng sulok ng internet nahukay ko na para mabasa lang lahat ng may kinalaman sa libro (fan art, reviews, forums, Philippine folklore, etc.). Kaya naman siguradong hinding-hindi ko ipagpapalit ang oras na ginastos ko para mabasa ang librong ito.
Aabangan ko talaga ang susunod na libro. Buti na lang kulang 'yong pera ko nang araw na iyon. Buti na lang talaga.:)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 370 reviews