The Bathala Games

by E. Manawari

Michelle Macabebe dreams of adventure outside their island, Luna Asul. For that, she must survive the boredom in high school until she leaves for the university. However, the adventure she seeks comes early against her will, when a talking fat cat chooses her for an out-of-this world (literally) and suspicious competition.


Bickering deities, (not-so) gentle giants, a moon-eating dragon, and overworked gods—all the forgotten stories from her childhood had come to life. As Chi navigates the land of gods and Neithers, and finishes the missions, competing with four other contestants (who had issues of their own), her real-life problems are piling up; from a strict mother to a one-sided crush, and a secret that broke her heart, and potentially, her brother and best friend as well.


Then there’s also a supernatural rebellion of the Neithers in the lower realms, waiting to happen.


Amidst her confusion and search for meaning in all that’s happening, will Chi find the answers she seeks on this journey?

338 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 13, 2026

Reviews

[Pamela · Rating 3 out of 5]

actual rating: 3.5 ⭐️

i enjoyed the adventure tho i really find the world building really slow & i was having a hard time engaging with the gen z slang terms 😭 great lesson throughout the story! 😌

[Erika Barcelo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently finished The Bathala Games by E. Manawari, and I can honestly say it was a captivating read from start to finish and it completely pulled me in.

The story follows a young girl who is chosen to become a Mandirigma, along with four other children, to take part in the mysterious Bathala Games. Each of them comes from different backgrounds and carries their own personal struggles.

What I loved most about the book is how it beautifully blends coming-of-age themes with elements of Philippine mythology. It explores friendship, courage, and self-discovery in a way that feels both magical and grounded.
The characters grow not just as warriors, but as individuals learning to face their fears and understand themselves.

The world-building is immersive, especially for readers who appreciate local folklore and mythology. It’s refreshing to see a fantasy story rooted in Filipino culture, bringing familiar legends to life in such an engaging way.

Overall, The Bathala Games is a compelling and heartfelt story that keeps you turning pages. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys fantasy, adventure, and stories about growth and friendship. Definitely a book I would recommend.

[Ronabear · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved The Bathala Games. I’m already a sucker for stories inspired by Philippine mythology, so this was right up my alley.

I also didn’t expect to enjoy the YA aspect as much as I did, but this was such a refreshing read. Following Chi as she tries to figure things out as a teenager while getting caught up in something much bigger made her easy to root for.

The premise was exciting from the start, and I was especially curious about the reason behind the Bathala Games. Every new reveal made me want to keep reading.

And that ending… I really hope there’s a sequel because that cliffhanger left me wanting so much more.

[sai · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

i had fun reading the bathala games especially with the sassiness of Kevs, like bro i always cackled whenever he talks — very Gen Z hahaha. really love how they introduce and described each elemento in the story and how the mandirigma went through to finish each missions.

Hoping to know more lore of them <33

[Dycee · Rating 5 out of 5]

E. Manawari weaves in the folklore and creatures I grew up hearing about from my elders, blending nostalgia with a deeply resonant story about the endurance of family and friendship. A surprising, heartwarming read that I thoroughly loved!

[Kayezone · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will defend Pitoy with my life!!

[; · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️

[selina]

my little self who grew up loving books based on greek mythology (yes pjo) but wanted one about filipino mythology is crying bc of this book