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Bone Talk
‘A wonderful novel... will stay with me for a long time.’ Elizabeth Laird
More than a hundred years ago, a boy named Samkad thinks he knows everything about the world. He knows the mountains he lives in. He knows his people. He knows his blood enemy, the Mangili. And he wants to become a man, to be given his own shield, spear and axe to fight with. His best friend, Luki, wants all the same things – but she is a girl, and no girl has ever become a warrior.
But everything changes when a new boy arrives in the village. He calls himself Samkad’s brother, yet he knows nothing of the ways of the mountain. And he brings news of a people called ‘Americans’, who are bringing war and destruction right to his home . . .
More than a hundred years ago, a boy named Samkad thinks he knows everything about the world. He knows the mountains he lives in. He knows his people. He knows his blood enemy, the Mangili. And he wants to become a man, to be given his own shield, spear and axe to fight with. His best friend, Luki, wants all the same things – but she is a girl, and no girl has ever become a warrior.
But everything changes when a new boy arrives in the village. He calls himself Samkad’s brother, yet he knows nothing of the ways of the mountain. And he brings news of a people called ‘Americans’, who are bringing war and destruction right to his home . . .
256 pages, Hardcover
First published August 2, 2018
56 people are currently reading
1086 people want to read
About the author
Candy Gourlay
14 books172 followersCandy Gourlay was born in the Philippines, grew up under a dictatorship and met her husband during a revolution. She had many adventures as a journalist in Asia, including visiting North Korea in 1987. Then she moved to the UK and found herself writing news about toilet paper, toothpaste and bleach. She pivoted to writing books for children and young adults and was published after nine years of rejection. Her books have been nominated for major prizes in Europe, including the Carnegie, the Guardian Prize, the Costa and the Nero Book Award. She has won the National Children’s Book Award of the Philippines twice and the Crystal Kite Prize for Europe twice. Her first novel Tall Story was selected as one of the ‘100 Best Books of the Last 100 Years’ and Bone Talk was listed as a White Ravens Book and is endorsed by Amnesty International.
She lives in London with her family, where she loves dogs, making comics and gardening, in that order.
She lives in London with her family, where she loves dogs, making comics and gardening, in that order.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
October 24, 2018
Young Samkad is desperate to become a man. His father is a valued and respected warrior within the Bontoc community, and, to Samkad, the epitome of what it means to be a man. If only Samkad could prove to the elders that he too possesses such physical and inner strength. However, when a spiral of events prevents the ceremony that would establish Samkad’s manhood from taking place, the protagonist can only feel rage and bitterness at the injustice. But, with passing time and impending danger, Samkad learns that he must put others before himself, that the security of his culture and people is of far higher importance than his manhood.
In terms of theme, this was extremely strong, and I think that a long time could be spent picking apart masculinity, threat and difference within this story. I am extremely intrigued by the attention paid to individuals within groups breaking away from what they are perceived to be, particularly in relation to what Samkad comes to understand about individuality and identity, and how values may be personal to those that hold them.
To me, Gourlay’s story is a triumph. Her writing is so vivid, and completely immerses the reader in the sounds and sights of Cordillera and the traditions of the Bontoc people, bringing to life a culture I had never even heard of prior to opening the book. Emotionally, very affecting; I too felt the disorientation and deep urgency that Samkad describes when what is known is threatened by violence and upheaval. Truly immense; it is stories like these that highlight the absence within literature when periods of history are so wrongfully neglected. I hope that Bone Talk makes a mark for a wave of different stories to be told, as it has certainly made a mark on me.
In terms of theme, this was extremely strong, and I think that a long time could be spent picking apart masculinity, threat and difference within this story. I am extremely intrigued by the attention paid to individuals within groups breaking away from what they are perceived to be, particularly in relation to what Samkad comes to understand about individuality and identity, and how values may be personal to those that hold them.
To me, Gourlay’s story is a triumph. Her writing is so vivid, and completely immerses the reader in the sounds and sights of Cordillera and the traditions of the Bontoc people, bringing to life a culture I had never even heard of prior to opening the book. Emotionally, very affecting; I too felt the disorientation and deep urgency that Samkad describes when what is known is threatened by violence and upheaval. Truly immense; it is stories like these that highlight the absence within literature when periods of history are so wrongfully neglected. I hope that Bone Talk makes a mark for a wave of different stories to be told, as it has certainly made a mark on me.
February 7, 2024
------Stat Score------
Plot/Content: 7/10
Characters/POVs: 6/10
Prose/Style: 6/10
Themes/Messages: 10/10
Enjoyability/Impact: 8/10
OVERALL RATING: 7/10 (Good)
A more objective review on the book that first charmed me into reading fiction novels.
Synopsis and/or Premise:
Samkad, a boy of the Bontok people, is now of age to receive the 'Cut'. This ceremony will make him a man. However, after an unanticipated incident, his wishes began dimming. Little did he know how the upcoming turn of events will change his and his people life permanently.
The Good and The Bad:
On this rereading, I appreciated a lot more aspects of the book that I missed from my previous one. Within the context of Philippines Middle-Grade (MG) Literature, this novel was a fresh contribution. Of course, it belonged to the 'coming-of-age' trope that oversaturated the genre. However, this book did a few things that set itself apart. First, the plot went progressive darker ☠️. There's war, nightmares, death, colonization, destruction of culture, racism, etc. that were inspired by true history of Philippine-American War during the 1890s-1900s. You don't get much MG literature that blatantly tackled these gritty subjects. Second, despite only having around 200 pages of narrative, this book was hefty on messages and themes 🗣️. It delivered the idea that even a single contact on the outside world could cause drastic and irreversible changes in a society. It also showcased the level of morality behind those who initiated the contact — that the world around us isn't simply black and white. Plus, this book wasn't reserved on crucial lessons for younger readers, like righteousness, bravery, responsibility, etc. Lastly, the book was just something novel 👌. I personally haven't encountered any books (even locally) that had Bontok people as their main protagonists. The author took full advantage of the chance to effectively transport readers into Bontok culture and geography. Her decision to focus on a lesser-known group of indigenous people during a major time period of Philippine History was merit-full (especially considering how educational the Author's note, Q&A, and Enrichment Guide at the back), and is something I would give my forever praise.
The unexpected rising star was...Luki? I KID YOU NOT, I was surprised with this one. From my initial reading, and even up to my first reread of this book, Luki didn't really stood out much. She acted as a chaotic side character being tossed aside and only exists to give contrast to the main character, Samkad. Nah! I couldn't be more wrong about her. IRONIC HOW THOSE SAME QUALITIES MADE HER SPECIAL THIS TIME 😱. She may perhaps be titled the most interesting and underrated character of the book. Not only she's a headstrong and tenacious heroine, but she's also fun to read with her playful energy. A true underdog, indeed. I'm so happy she's became the deserving position of main character in the sequel.
As expected, the problems I identified on my previous review (ex. Could have benefited from extra book length, plotting problems, characters needing more time, etc.) were still noticeable, though the character of Kinyo, functioning as a glorified plot device, stuck out like a sore thumb. However, a new issue arose from someone I wouldn't even consider before. Samkad became problematic 😞. I initially thought he was near perfect, but I just noticed how unlikable he actually was. He consistently put down the ambitions of Luki, yet his realization towards the end was not satisfying. Him being insolent doesn't help either, though I have to admit it served the narrative well.
Final Thoughts:
Bone Talk by Candy Gourlay is a 'coming-of-age' MG and historical fiction novel about a Bontok boy named Samkad during the Philippine-American War of 1899. It's fresh, venturous, and is heavy on its thematic. I could genuinely see a wonderful animated adaptation. Anyways, I just love Candy Gourlay's consistent use of superstitions (although this time it's more of a cultural belief) as a plot device on her books. It gives a us of familiarity, but I'm not sure if this quirk will continue on the sequel. Before I end, I want to tell everyone that, yes, my rating of this book did decrease, but I still won’t stop recommending it.
--------------------
Links to my ratings and reviews:
Goodreads reviews
The StoryGraph
-----------------------------------
My previous review (Rated 9/10 or 4 Stars)
Bone Talk (by Candy Gourlay) is one of the best (at the top, so far) novels in my collection and is MY favorite book. This book is mostly for younger audiences (at most young adults)...but dear goodness, you don't need a youth potion to appreciate this piece of art. It is nuanced and deep enough to be enjoyable nonetheless, regardless of the reader's age. I dearly recommend it.
I LOVE the protagonist and his arc...HIS ARC (I don't want to spoil it). It was easy to read, and the mountainous forests of the CORDILLERA, Philippines was written with rich details and life, evoking such magnificent imagery. Not to mention the novelty of having the perspective of its local people (Bontok) from a time and place barely present in today's (even the past's) literature. Plus, each characters shine on their own ways, and the whole book is riveting and educational. Man, I can't stop admiring this novel.
Book praise aside, I need to give credit to Candy Gourlay and her process of writing it. There is not one instance before where I equally adore both creation of a novel and its outcome. At the last part of my physical copy (I don't know if all copies do have it) there were dedicated sections where Candy Gourlay's challenges, journey, and her thoughts written out for the readers. I even watched a video or two of her interview (or something like it) discussing about the whole process of writing this masterpiece. She DID researched, and went to the CORDILLERA region of the Philippines physically to learn about the Bontok culture first hand. Such an effort!
Is Bone Talk flawless? No, I had to admit. I found one section had some pacing problems, some minor characters needed more time in the story, and I do agree on some criticisms that the whole novel was a little too short (for real though, I finished it in one sitting. My fondness for this book doesn't help lengthening the peruse.)
Still, a 9/10 book that enriched my love for the genre of historical fiction. I hope more of books like this will be made ASAP.
-----------------------------------
Plot/Content: 7/10
Characters/POVs: 6/10
Prose/Style: 6/10
Themes/Messages: 10/10
Enjoyability/Impact: 8/10
OVERALL RATING: 7/10 (Good)
A more objective review on the book that first charmed me into reading fiction novels.
"Heh, Sam, you don't need a stupid ceremony to become a man. If you want to become a man, then you should just be one."
Synopsis and/or Premise:
Samkad, a boy of the Bontok people, is now of age to receive the 'Cut'. This ceremony will make him a man. However, after an unanticipated incident, his wishes began dimming. Little did he know how the upcoming turn of events will change his and his people life permanently.
The Good and The Bad:
On this rereading, I appreciated a lot more aspects of the book that I missed from my previous one. Within the context of Philippines Middle-Grade (MG) Literature, this novel was a fresh contribution. Of course, it belonged to the 'coming-of-age' trope that oversaturated the genre. However, this book did a few things that set itself apart. First, the plot went progressive darker ☠️. There's war, nightmares, death, colonization, destruction of culture, racism, etc. that were inspired by true history of Philippine-American War during the 1890s-1900s. You don't get much MG literature that blatantly tackled these gritty subjects. Second, despite only having around 200 pages of narrative, this book was hefty on messages and themes 🗣️. It delivered the idea that even a single contact on the outside world could cause drastic and irreversible changes in a society. It also showcased the level of morality behind those who initiated the contact — that the world around us isn't simply black and white. Plus, this book wasn't reserved on crucial lessons for younger readers, like righteousness, bravery, responsibility, etc. Lastly, the book was just something novel 👌. I personally haven't encountered any books (even locally) that had Bontok people as their main protagonists. The author took full advantage of the chance to effectively transport readers into Bontok culture and geography. Her decision to focus on a lesser-known group of indigenous people during a major time period of Philippine History was merit-full (especially considering how educational the Author's note, Q&A, and Enrichment Guide at the back), and is something I would give my forever praise.
The unexpected rising star was...Luki? I KID YOU NOT, I was surprised with this one. From my initial reading, and even up to my first reread of this book, Luki didn't really stood out much. She acted as a chaotic side character being tossed aside and only exists to give contrast to the main character, Samkad. Nah! I couldn't be more wrong about her. IRONIC HOW THOSE SAME QUALITIES MADE HER SPECIAL THIS TIME 😱. She may perhaps be titled the most interesting and underrated character of the book. Not only she's a headstrong and tenacious heroine, but she's also fun to read with her playful energy. A true underdog, indeed. I'm so happy she's became the deserving position of main character in the sequel.
As expected, the problems I identified on my previous review (ex. Could have benefited from extra book length, plotting problems, characters needing more time, etc.) were still noticeable, though the character of Kinyo, functioning as a glorified plot device, stuck out like a sore thumb. However, a new issue arose from someone I wouldn't even consider before. Samkad became problematic 😞. I initially thought he was near perfect, but I just noticed how unlikable he actually was. He consistently put down the ambitions of Luki, yet his realization towards the end was not satisfying. Him being insolent doesn't help either, though I have to admit it served the narrative well.
Final Thoughts:
Bone Talk by Candy Gourlay is a 'coming-of-age' MG and historical fiction novel about a Bontok boy named Samkad during the Philippine-American War of 1899. It's fresh, venturous, and is heavy on its thematic. I could genuinely see a wonderful animated adaptation. Anyways, I just love Candy Gourlay's consistent use of superstitions (although this time it's more of a cultural belief) as a plot device on her books. It gives a us of familiarity, but I'm not sure if this quirk will continue on the sequel. Before I end, I want to tell everyone that, yes, my rating of this book did decrease, but I still won’t stop recommending it.
--------------------
Links to my ratings and reviews:
Goodreads reviews
The StoryGraph
-----------------------------------
My previous review (Rated 9/10 or 4 Stars)
Bone Talk (by Candy Gourlay) is one of the best (at the top, so far) novels in my collection and is MY favorite book. This book is mostly for younger audiences (at most young adults)...but dear goodness, you don't need a youth potion to appreciate this piece of art. It is nuanced and deep enough to be enjoyable nonetheless, regardless of the reader's age. I dearly recommend it.
I LOVE the protagonist and his arc...HIS ARC (I don't want to spoil it). It was easy to read, and the mountainous forests of the CORDILLERA, Philippines was written with rich details and life, evoking such magnificent imagery. Not to mention the novelty of having the perspective of its local people (Bontok) from a time and place barely present in today's (even the past's) literature. Plus, each characters shine on their own ways, and the whole book is riveting and educational. Man, I can't stop admiring this novel.
Book praise aside, I need to give credit to Candy Gourlay and her process of writing it. There is not one instance before where I equally adore both creation of a novel and its outcome. At the last part of my physical copy (I don't know if all copies do have it) there were dedicated sections where Candy Gourlay's challenges, journey, and her thoughts written out for the readers. I even watched a video or two of her interview (or something like it) discussing about the whole process of writing this masterpiece. She DID researched, and went to the CORDILLERA region of the Philippines physically to learn about the Bontok culture first hand. Such an effort!
Is Bone Talk flawless? No, I had to admit. I found one section had some pacing problems, some minor characters needed more time in the story, and I do agree on some criticisms that the whole novel was a little too short (for real though, I finished it in one sitting. My fondness for this book doesn't help lengthening the peruse.)
Still, a 9/10 book that enriched my love for the genre of historical fiction. I hope more of books like this will be made ASAP.
-----------------------------------
August 25, 2019
I purchased this at YALC, on the insistence by the publisher that I absolutely must read it. She was right, a wonderful and quick introduction to the history of a part of the world I am completely ignorant to.
Candy Gourlay, uses plenty of imagery to drop you into the middle of the Bontok community, and it was easy to picture them all from Samkad jr, to brave and fierce little Luki. Equally easy to picture are the Americans that walk into their midst, and I was very ready to leap into the pages and punch them squarely in the face. I loved that Gourlay used this book to try and bring more awareness to this period in history, as well as a stark reminder at the end about who provides us with our histories.
Some of the writing was a little bit sloppy, with repetitive sentences a few lines apart, and so I'm dropping a star. But otherwise this was a truly wonderful book, and completely different to everything else I have read this year. If you are looking for a bit of diversity in your reading, I highly recommend this quick read.
Candy Gourlay, uses plenty of imagery to drop you into the middle of the Bontok community, and it was easy to picture them all from Samkad jr, to brave and fierce little Luki. Equally easy to picture are the Americans that walk into their midst, and I was very ready to leap into the pages and punch them squarely in the face. I loved that Gourlay used this book to try and bring more awareness to this period in history, as well as a stark reminder at the end about who provides us with our histories.
Some of the writing was a little bit sloppy, with repetitive sentences a few lines apart, and so I'm dropping a star. But otherwise this was a truly wonderful book, and completely different to everything else I have read this year. If you are looking for a bit of diversity in your reading, I highly recommend this quick read.
April 6, 2019
the only criticism I have is this book should have been a bit longer?
anyway I'm a sucker for books that are just different. like, the don't take place in the us like every single other book. AND HISTORICAL FICTION AHHHHHHHH
anyway this was amazing
anyway I'm a sucker for books that are just different. like, the don't take place in the us like every single other book. AND HISTORICAL FICTION AHHHHHHHH
anyway this was amazing
September 1, 2022
Oh my god. My heart is beating so fast.
October 12, 2018
I have lots of thoughts about this book. It is a story that carries within it a goal which is, according to the back jacket sleeve, to bring into the world a story that the author was missing whilst growing up, a story that resembled 'her steamy, tropical home in Manila'. And I am so glad she did. Through copious, exhaustive research from a range of secondary and primary sources, Gourlay has accomplished an impressive feat bringing to life the Bontoc people and work respectfully with the guidance of many others to bring a voice to the voiceless.
The story itself it set in three parts and follows the story of Samkad, a boy on the cusp of being initiated into manhood. The rite of passage ceremony though is brought to a halt when the old ones set a task that, ultimately, sets in motion events that change the tribe's future for all time. Together with Luki, a ferociously-willed young girl, his father and others (not wanting to give the plot away), Samkad finds his whole world changed and challenged forever. Will he have the strength and courage within to save his people and what will his people and their culture mean to him when he encounters others?
Gourlay juggles so much in this book; strong females trying to fight against the gendered norm, the his history of a people living in the Cordeillera region, their cultures and customs as well as their encounters. She does so perfectly. I learned so much from her story; she opened my eyes to the Bontoc people and their region and has done so with great sensitivity, respect and love. I have a feeling that this was an equally great journey for her too.
The story itself it set in three parts and follows the story of Samkad, a boy on the cusp of being initiated into manhood. The rite of passage ceremony though is brought to a halt when the old ones set a task that, ultimately, sets in motion events that change the tribe's future for all time. Together with Luki, a ferociously-willed young girl, his father and others (not wanting to give the plot away), Samkad finds his whole world changed and challenged forever. Will he have the strength and courage within to save his people and what will his people and their culture mean to him when he encounters others?
Gourlay juggles so much in this book; strong females trying to fight against the gendered norm, the his history of a people living in the Cordeillera region, their cultures and customs as well as their encounters. She does so perfectly. I learned so much from her story; she opened my eyes to the Bontoc people and their region and has done so with great sensitivity, respect and love. I have a feeling that this was an equally great journey for her too.
May 8, 2021
I liked it.
The book gave me a variety of emotions to ponder on. Some, even extreme emotions of wishing death. Lols I think it goes with the age and my angst with the kupal na Amerikano sa mundong ibabaw.
I read this book because I wanted to join the book discussion of National Book Development Board where Bodjie Pascua was a moderator. In the first meeting, we tackled on Chapters 1-18, about Samkad's desire-bordering-obsession to become a man, their life in Bontoc, and his father's quest to fetch his brother (from another mother).
Little do I know that I wasn't able to put it down, when I read about Mangili, the tribal war context, and the arrival of the Americans. Those Americans.
In any case, the fight scenes/violence were graphic even for kids 10-12 yrs of age, but I think this os necessary to amplify the voice and the struggles of our primary character, Samkad. I felt the inner voices telling him as he did things, even sometimes it felt like a move out of instinct.
This book is an adventure. And I miss travelling again. Thank you Ms. Candy for taking me back to the mountains.
The book gave me a variety of emotions to ponder on. Some, even extreme emotions of wishing death. Lols I think it goes with the age and my angst with the kupal na Amerikano sa mundong ibabaw.
I read this book because I wanted to join the book discussion of National Book Development Board where Bodjie Pascua was a moderator. In the first meeting, we tackled on Chapters 1-18, about Samkad's desire-bordering-obsession to become a man, their life in Bontoc, and his father's quest to fetch his brother (from another mother).
Little do I know that I wasn't able to put it down, when I read about Mangili, the tribal war context, and the arrival of the Americans. Those Americans.
In any case, the fight scenes/violence were graphic even for kids 10-12 yrs of age, but I think this os necessary to amplify the voice and the struggles of our primary character, Samkad. I felt the inner voices telling him as he did things, even sometimes it felt like a move out of instinct.
This book is an adventure. And I miss travelling again. Thank you Ms. Candy for taking me back to the mountains.
September 6, 2024
Second time reading:
Samkad, a boy from a tribe in the highlands of northern Philippines in 1899 comes of age. As he eagerly prepares for his rite of passage to manhood—‘The Cut’ gets put off because of a portent that requires something out of his own control.
A fiction built on real folk culture with children as protagonists, this maybe playful in parts, yet it has some sobering themes: animism including animal sacrifice, circumcision as a cultural practice, tribal roles, warring and headhunting, death, and later in the story, colonialism.
The overall makeup of this work easily appealed to me as a frequenter of the geographical region. What I liked best was Gourlay’s care to establish her mountain folk community, their beliefs and their way of living. The depiction of the members’ roles during the yearly rice planting season—where men warriors post as guards of women who plant in the paddies while children are assigned to look after the babies—was one of those social arrangements that if you thought about just made total sense; one among many sensible old practices to discover in the modern day.
The narrative pacing was sound and consistent I was all for it until the climax when it suddenly did away with the villains without as much exploit as it did the buildup. I had to reread that section a few times over hoping there was more to it and to be certain I wasn’t misunderstanding. From thereon tying up the ends felt hurried. To me this started and treaded promisingly, but ended a pretty blur.
The plot could have enjoyed more depth exposing Samkad’s girl bestfriend, Luki, her perspective. Given the repeated mention of the lowlanders’ discriminatory attitude towards highlanders: 'Mountain folks are like dirt to lowlanders.’ p.102 expounding would also give this benefit.
Rating: 3.5/5
***
March 13, 2020
Years ago at a homestay's balcony overlooking the handsome Maligcong Rice Terraces was when I briefly met the author through my friend innkeeper. Unaware of her penned stories as I had never read one from her before, I intently listened to her share she was on that trip in the process of writing this fiction called Bone Talk, a play on the very town's name we were in: Bontoc.
This is the first book by her I deliberately looked for because of that meeting, and primarily because of my flame with the Cordilleras. I love going to the region over and again. Since a visit to the mountains this year is not practicable, a re-read might be the fix I need.
I’m glad to be here. But nobody told me anything about having my foreskin cut. p.102
Samkad, a boy from a tribe in the highlands of northern Philippines in 1899 comes of age. As he eagerly prepares for his rite of passage to manhood—‘The Cut’ gets put off because of a portent that requires something out of his own control.
A fiction built on real folk culture with children as protagonists, this maybe playful in parts, yet it has some sobering themes: animism including animal sacrifice, circumcision as a cultural practice, tribal roles, warring and headhunting, death, and later in the story, colonialism.
[W]hy are your children so squeamish when you people thrive on the stink of death? […] if [you] don't mind displaying a headless corpse then [your] children shouldn't mind a few more dead bodies. p.166
The overall makeup of this work easily appealed to me as a frequenter of the geographical region. What I liked best was Gourlay’s care to establish her mountain folk community, their beliefs and their way of living. The depiction of the members’ roles during the yearly rice planting season—where men warriors post as guards of women who plant in the paddies while children are assigned to look after the babies—was one of those social arrangements that if you thought about just made total sense; one among many sensible old practices to discover in the modern day.
The narrative pacing was sound and consistent I was all for it until the climax when it suddenly did away with the villains without as much exploit as it did the buildup. I had to reread that section a few times over hoping there was more to it and to be certain I wasn’t misunderstanding. From thereon tying up the ends felt hurried. To me this started and treaded promisingly, but ended a pretty blur.
The plot could have enjoyed more depth exposing Samkad’s girl bestfriend, Luki, her perspective. Given the repeated mention of the lowlanders’ discriminatory attitude towards highlanders: 'Mountain folks are like dirt to lowlanders.’ p.102 expounding would also give this benefit.
Rating: 3.5/5
***
March 13, 2020
Years ago at a homestay's balcony overlooking the handsome Maligcong Rice Terraces was when I briefly met the author through my friend innkeeper. Unaware of her penned stories as I had never read one from her before, I intently listened to her share she was on that trip in the process of writing this fiction called Bone Talk, a play on the very town's name we were in: Bontoc.
This is the first book by her I deliberately looked for because of that meeting, and primarily because of my flame with the Cordilleras. I love going to the region over and again. Since a visit to the mountains this year is not practicable, a re-read might be the fix I need.
March 22, 2019
This was an interesting book to read. I have never read a book about this period of time before or in this part of the world so when I started it did take a while to get in to as it was quite a culture shock.
That being said Candy's use of language is impressive. The descriptions are beautiful and a picture is painted for you so its easy to imagine this place that feels so removed from the world we see around us now.
Characters are pronounced so its easy to remember everyone introduced.
My only issue with Sam's story is it felt very laboured in some parts and the ending was a bit quick and anti climatic. We first join Sam as he wants to become a man. This introduces us to the culture and the world. However, he cannot do this due to being connected with another boy. This boy is then brought to the village and Americans are introduced to us. We learn they are having a war with another group called the Lowlanders. Meanwhile Sam's tribe are worried about their own enemies the Mangili - We meet the horrid Americans but nothing comes of the encounter despite it taking up most of the book. Instead the Mangili are the true threat but they are dispatched quickly at the end and then the story is nicely wrapped up in an Epilogue.
Don't get me wrong, there were interesting parts and the characters and intrigue were nice but the story seemed a bit messy like it was telling you lots of things without focusing on one. But maybe that's just a good reflection of real life. Sometimes things get in the way of your goals. In this case it was the Americans.
Great book with great language and interesting culture and history reflections. I would suggest this book for apt KS3 readers but mainly for KS4.
That being said Candy's use of language is impressive. The descriptions are beautiful and a picture is painted for you so its easy to imagine this place that feels so removed from the world we see around us now.
Characters are pronounced so its easy to remember everyone introduced.
My only issue with Sam's story is it felt very laboured in some parts and the ending was a bit quick and anti climatic. We first join Sam as he wants to become a man. This introduces us to the culture and the world. However, he cannot do this due to being connected with another boy. This boy is then brought to the village and Americans are introduced to us. We learn they are having a war with another group called the Lowlanders. Meanwhile Sam's tribe are worried about their own enemies the Mangili - We meet the horrid Americans but nothing comes of the encounter despite it taking up most of the book. Instead the Mangili are the true threat but they are dispatched quickly at the end and then the story is nicely wrapped up in an Epilogue.
Don't get me wrong, there were interesting parts and the characters and intrigue were nice but the story seemed a bit messy like it was telling you lots of things without focusing on one. But maybe that's just a good reflection of real life. Sometimes things get in the way of your goals. In this case it was the Americans.
Great book with great language and interesting culture and history reflections. I would suggest this book for apt KS3 readers but mainly for KS4.
May 6, 2019
~this is the fifth book I have read for the Carnegie awards! get involved @ www.ckg.org.uk
insert official description because ya girl is lazy as heck:
More than a hundred years ago, a boy named Samkad thinks he knows everything about the world. He knows the mountains he lives in. He knows his people. He knows his blood enemy, the Mangili. And he wants to become a man, to be given his own shield, spear and axe to fight with. His best friend, Luki, wants all the same things – but she is a girl, and no girl has ever become a warrior.
But everything changes when a new boy arrives in the village. He calls himself Samkad’s brother, yet he knows nothing of the ways of the mountain. And he brings news of a people called ‘Americans’, who are bringing war and destruction right to his home . . .
I thought this book was ok, and to be fair, when I finished this book it didn't leave me with any feelings. I was more relieved instead of wowed because it meant I didn't have to read it anymore!
I also feel like nothing really happened for the majority of this book. There was a slight adventure at the end, and a plot twist that I wasn't expecting, but didn't really satisfy me all too much. I didn't see any message in this book, except maybe "you don't need a cut to be a man" which was kind of a rubbish message.
And LUKI! Luki was one of the fiercest characters in this book, yet in the end, she never got what we all wanted her to be: a warrior!
I just didn't have any connection with this book or any of the characters, and considering I read it just over a week ago, I barely remember what happened in it.
insert official description because ya girl is lazy as heck:
More than a hundred years ago, a boy named Samkad thinks he knows everything about the world. He knows the mountains he lives in. He knows his people. He knows his blood enemy, the Mangili. And he wants to become a man, to be given his own shield, spear and axe to fight with. His best friend, Luki, wants all the same things – but she is a girl, and no girl has ever become a warrior.
But everything changes when a new boy arrives in the village. He calls himself Samkad’s brother, yet he knows nothing of the ways of the mountain. And he brings news of a people called ‘Americans’, who are bringing war and destruction right to his home . . .
I thought this book was ok, and to be fair, when I finished this book it didn't leave me with any feelings. I was more relieved instead of wowed because it meant I didn't have to read it anymore!
I also feel like nothing really happened for the majority of this book. There was a slight adventure at the end, and a plot twist that I wasn't expecting, but didn't really satisfy me all too much. I didn't see any message in this book, except maybe "you don't need a cut to be a man" which was kind of a rubbish message.
And LUKI! Luki was one of the fiercest characters in this book, yet in the end, she never got what we all wanted her to be: a warrior!
I just didn't have any connection with this book or any of the characters, and considering I read it just over a week ago, I barely remember what happened in it.
February 10, 2025
This has a *lot* of beheadings and blood sacrifices and talk about foreskins for a YA book (it was filed in the Juveniles section at my library, not even YA). The imagery was good in general, but that was really the only thing I liked. The story felt too simplistic for how serious and heavy the content is.
I wanted to love this because I’m on the lookout for great Filipino novels, but this just didn’t do it for me.
I wanted to love this because I’m on the lookout for great Filipino novels, but this just didn’t do it for me.
July 8, 2025
Regretfully couldn't enjoy this one. It's one of those YA where it's all plot and not enough interior development. Yawn.
June 16, 2019
Bone Talk is the story of Samkad, a young Bontoc boy at the cusp of manhood. His journey towards becoming one is a thrilling and heart breaking adventure since the setting of the novel happened at a time of conflict and change. It is 1899 and the Philippines has entered a war with the United States of America. His village in the Cordilleras is not spared of the cruelty of invaders. Though, the opportunity to learn from a friendly stranger presents itself. This coming of age story has a lot to tell, and teach, about identity, honor, subversion, obedience to customs and traditions and the gray areas in between.
Candy Gourlay once again dazzled me with her humor, wit and storytelling. I literally laughed out loud at one point when she started a chapter with this line, ...no talk of my manhood, after a series of action filled narratives. This is Samkad speaking and there I find the typical teenager. Irrational. Emotional. Impulsive. Self centered. I remember myself at twelve years old during the height of the People Power Revolution. I worried about my grade school graduation. Never mind if tanks and soldiers were moving and marching on EDSA. I need to graduate by March!
And then, there is Luki. Irrepressible and persistent, she is Samkad's best friend. It is through her that social class and the roles of Bontoc women are presented. How she defies and disobeys them not because she is a bad girl. Luki is smart and perceptive, protective of her family and friends. She knows who she is and where she belongs. These are all evident in the dialogues she has with Samkad implying that, even girls or women, can fight for the people and the place they love.
This is why I love reading Candy Gourlay. She is capable, with great effect, to show her characters as they are: strong yet flawed, willful but yielding, good and bad. She does so in situations that test these characters. She makes use of images, symbols and metaphors. A music box and a book as gifts from Mister William. A gun and camera as tokens from Colonel Quinlan. This literary technique opens up discussions of a larger scale.
For one, these colonisers' intent and interests can be further fleshed out through a comparison of the objects they gave the Bontocs. What do music and books represent? What are guns for? How powerful are photographs? By bringing these objects in the novel and planting them at well selected spots or parts in the entire narrative, I thought about the ways we were subjugated. They differ in function but were used to colonize just the same.
Ms. Gourlay claims that Bone Talk is not history. True, but fiction can lead readers to a broader understanding of other disciplines and life lessons embedded in the material either intentionally or otherwise. In the end, I realized, that while Samkad earned his rightful place in the village, it is his father who learned a great lesson as well. This for me is the most beautiful part of the novel.
So, go and read the book. Find a copy. Buy or borrow! Do not miss out the wonderful discoveries and insights you can take away from the novel.
Rating: 5 Bookmarks
Recommended: Grade 5 and up
October 6, 2019
It’s 1899 and the USA has just betrayed its Filipino nationalist allies, bought the country for $20million from the Spanish and embarked on a war against it (now) former allies to crush the nationalist movement. Yet, this is unknown to Samkad in his Bontoc village deep in Luzon’s Cordillera, as he looks forward with excitement to making the transition to manhood, much to the distress of his best friend Luki, a great fighter, brave and a girl. Yet this is only part of the story. Sam’s life is deeply is interwoven with another, but he has moved to the Lowlands – who returns with stories of ‘the Americans’.
Gourlay has built a compellingly believable world of a people in an evocatively depicted world – in this case, it looks to me like the Cordillera’s Igorot people – on the cusp of being drawn into the state as the colonising world arrives with gusto. Samkad is an engaging narrator, excited by his changing status, keen to reach manhood and grappling with his responsibilities to his community, to his ancestors and to his friends and family. She has managed to avoid many of the Orientalist traps and myths of the ‘noble savage’ that could have tainted this and in doing so has constructed an image of Igorot life fitting for this realist genre: I look forward to reading Igorot novelists telling their own stories. In the meantime, we’ve got a well-cast young adult novel opening up a largely untold tale of the USA’s empire alongside an empathetic image of an Indigenous community still marginalised in Philippines life.
Alongside that she has given as a clear, in places nuanced, narrative with strong characters. Samkad and Luki as engaging central characters and a powerful sense of looming threat as the colonising world circles around the Igorot world. As befits the genre, there are elements of uncertainty in the form and nature of the threat, uncertainty that slows the narrative in the third quarter of the book, but it quickly picks up to reach a two-pronged climax and unsettling denouement.
Gourlay has built a compellingly believable world of a people in an evocatively depicted world – in this case, it looks to me like the Cordillera’s Igorot people – on the cusp of being drawn into the state as the colonising world arrives with gusto. Samkad is an engaging narrator, excited by his changing status, keen to reach manhood and grappling with his responsibilities to his community, to his ancestors and to his friends and family. She has managed to avoid many of the Orientalist traps and myths of the ‘noble savage’ that could have tainted this and in doing so has constructed an image of Igorot life fitting for this realist genre: I look forward to reading Igorot novelists telling their own stories. In the meantime, we’ve got a well-cast young adult novel opening up a largely untold tale of the USA’s empire alongside an empathetic image of an Indigenous community still marginalised in Philippines life.
Alongside that she has given as a clear, in places nuanced, narrative with strong characters. Samkad and Luki as engaging central characters and a powerful sense of looming threat as the colonising world circles around the Igorot world. As befits the genre, there are elements of uncertainty in the form and nature of the threat, uncertainty that slows the narrative in the third quarter of the book, but it quickly picks up to reach a two-pronged climax and unsettling denouement.
May 25, 2019
What I have loved about this year's Carnegie Shortlist is the range of stories and voices. Bone Talk blew me away by taking me deep into the history of the Philipines right before the American boot came down on its people. The pre-colonial lives of the Bontok crash headlong, through the voice of young Samran who is poised on the brink of a major rite of passage into manhood, into the colonial presence of American troops. You feel the ancient rhythms of the Bontok way of life, the mythologies, relationships, and preoccupations, suddenly rupture. Nothing will ever be the same again. The loss is incredible. You are with Samran and his father in their grief and bewilderment as their gods seemingly abandon them. You stand there with them, where the symbols and signs they relied upon no longer make sense, become unreadable, as if the gods have turned their backs on them. The pages fly as you hold your breath, watching Samran take the lessons of his elders and try to use them to make sense of the death, destruction, and lies that shape the American soliders' interactions with the Bontok people. Candy Gourlay has powerfully, empathetically illustrated the many ways war and external politics irrevocably change the lives of innocent citizens. As an American, this story is particularly painful, resonating with so many of the stories of war, destruction, prejudice, and hope that the world is experiencing now. Without the Carnegie Shadowing Book Club shortlist reading challenge, I'm not sure I would have found this novel on my own. I am so glad I did.
May 19, 2019
The most fascinating thing about this book is the narrative perspective of a young Philippine boy. It is a story which could (and has, in many other works) been told from a Western/American/colonialist point of view and this is something which Gourlay cleverly uses to her advantage in order to emphasise the exploitation of Philippine natives.
With the audience knowing exactly how the colonists will treat Samkad and his village, it feels very much like watching a terrible unseen through the gaps between your fingers. It is certainly a novel with a message which makes you question colonialism and the spread of ideologies around the world.
Whilst this novel should be praised for this achievement, I did find it somewhat lacking in depth and substance. The characters all felt two-dimensional and there was an absence of emotion which, if included, could have really enhanced Gourlay's unique perspective.
With the audience knowing exactly how the colonists will treat Samkad and his village, it feels very much like watching a terrible unseen through the gaps between your fingers. It is certainly a novel with a message which makes you question colonialism and the spread of ideologies around the world.
Whilst this novel should be praised for this achievement, I did find it somewhat lacking in depth and substance. The characters all felt two-dimensional and there was an absence of emotion which, if included, could have really enhanced Gourlay's unique perspective.
January 8, 2019
This book took me by surprise. I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did as I wouldn't choose historical fiction normally, but it was so highly recommended. I loved it. It is beautifully written and the setting and the characters are vividly portrayed. It's interesting from a historical point of view (I really had no idea about this conflict) and from an anthropological point of view (how death and the body are dealt with.) BUT this is a wonderful children's book, and also so relevant in these turbulent times here in the UK and around the world. It demonstrates how we are not so different from our enemies and not everyone from the same race/nationality/culture are going to behave in the same way. The empathy that Samkad had for his dead enemies is as touching as his turbulent friendship with Luki. A coming of age with a difference.
December 16, 2018
I loved this book by Candy Gourlay set on her native Philippines at the beginning of the colonial era there. As Candy says, there are no contemporary records from Philippino voices and so Candy had to do a considerable amount of research and talking to people on the ground to understand what the impact of the first white men was. The result is a wonderful book from a well respected author. Loved it!
March 5, 2019
Samkad is a boy, desperate to be a man. However, customs dictate he must listen to the ancients of his village and he cannot become a man until his brother is found.
Following Samkad we’re shown what happens to this group when they are taken over by the Americans invading their country.
This was a fascinating read about a period of history that I know nothing of. It highlighted the horrors of Samkad’s experience though it also showed his warmth and compassion.
Following Samkad we’re shown what happens to this group when they are taken over by the Americans invading their country.
This was a fascinating read about a period of history that I know nothing of. It highlighted the horrors of Samkad’s experience though it also showed his warmth and compassion.
May 26, 2019
I really liked this book and found it interesting learning about how indigenous people in the Philippines have been impacted by the Americans. The ending was what I probably liked most about this book. It was a quick and easy read and it was very enjoyable learning about a new culture I had not really known anything about.
January 1, 2020
"A tingle thrilled up my spine. Here at last was proof that I could hold my own."
This intriguing book is set in the Philippines--a coming of age story that shows the power of family, loyalty and tradition. Authentic MC tween voice and complexities that make this book a compelling read.
This intriguing book is set in the Philippines--a coming of age story that shows the power of family, loyalty and tradition. Authentic MC tween voice and complexities that make this book a compelling read.
November 2, 2018
A highly original and interesting book about a period of history I had never even come across before.
June 17, 2019
An interesting, original book about a historical period that I was previously unfamiliar with. I was just incredibly disappointed with Luki's story.
February 19, 2020
I think that the theme of Bone talk is when there is a change in your life, you must accept it, and react to it the right way.
February 26, 2024
Pride.
I guess that sums up all my emotions in one word after reading this book. Candy Gourlay takes us into a journey to my home country, the Philippines, in 1899. This is a story of tribe wars, of the war between Filipinos and Americans, told through the eyes of a 10 year old child. Of a boy and his heroic father. Of a beautiful friendship. Of what it’s truly like to be colonised. I am so happy that this book was published in the UK and is duly awarded. This narrative needed to be told, and i’m so proud of this author for writing such an amazing and well-written tale about one of the tribespeople in the Philippines. I too, am delighted to read a heroine from an international book who looks like me. Mabuhay ka, Candy. ❤️
I guess that sums up all my emotions in one word after reading this book. Candy Gourlay takes us into a journey to my home country, the Philippines, in 1899. This is a story of tribe wars, of the war between Filipinos and Americans, told through the eyes of a 10 year old child. Of a boy and his heroic father. Of a beautiful friendship. Of what it’s truly like to be colonised. I am so happy that this book was published in the UK and is duly awarded. This narrative needed to be told, and i’m so proud of this author for writing such an amazing and well-written tale about one of the tribespeople in the Philippines. I too, am delighted to read a heroine from an international book who looks like me. Mabuhay ka, Candy. ❤️
October 17, 2024
What I thought would be a coming-of-age novel about a boy in a tribe actually became a pretty shocking and violent narrative on colonialism.
The author preface talks about colonial literature often lacking real indigenous stories to back them up, and how much of what we know today comes from western and colonial documents like diary entries. Where are the indigenous narratives? This book tries to faithfully fill in that gap, and as a teacher I think that is incredibly valuable.
But as a snobby reader, yes I enjoyed it, but I always want more with the language. So it gets my bog standard 3*
The author preface talks about colonial literature often lacking real indigenous stories to back them up, and how much of what we know today comes from western and colonial documents like diary entries. Where are the indigenous narratives? This book tries to faithfully fill in that gap, and as a teacher I think that is incredibly valuable.
But as a snobby reader, yes I enjoyed it, but I always want more with the language. So it gets my bog standard 3*
December 21, 2022
I can't speak for how well the Cordilleran, specifically Bontok, culture was represented, but I can say that I thought this book was written pretty well!!! I only took breaks because the plot was making me nervous, and the accounts with the white colonizers was making me fume. Overall, I was very compelled and invested in Samkad's life. 5/5 would recommend
January 31, 2024
A masterclass in historical fiction for teens. Felt a bit slow at the beginning but oh my! I didn’t know how she would finish the story and with so few pages left.
February 25, 2024
I still don’t get the title, there’s a bone tree at the end but that’s really it.
January 21, 2021
A fresh perspective historical fiction novel of a boy coming of age in turn of the century Philippines. My middle school libraries definitely need more books like this one.
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