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Song of the Mango and Other New Myths
A diwata brings a grieving slave's brother back to life as a mango tree. Two writers write their ideal lovers into existence with ink from a mangkukulam. A kapre and a farmgirl play out a tale as old as time in Spanish colonial Philippines. A girl with a magical heritage must rescue a bumbling cartographer from the hidden city of Biringan. Maria Makiling opens a pop-up cafe with human heartbreak on the menu.
In Song of the Mango and Other New Myths, Vida Cruz-Borja brings stories woven from elements of classical myths and folklore from the Philippines and other parts of the world, as well as from visions of the modern and of the future. In words richly reimagined and reinvented, these "new myths" explore hidden depths from flawed characters who strive to search for a just and equal world, whether that may be in the realm of ordinary humans or the terrain of magical creatures.
In Song of the Mango and Other New Myths, Vida Cruz-Borja brings stories woven from elements of classical myths and folklore from the Philippines and other parts of the world, as well as from visions of the modern and of the future. In words richly reimagined and reinvented, these "new myths" explore hidden depths from flawed characters who strive to search for a just and equal world, whether that may be in the realm of ordinary humans or the terrain of magical creatures.
352 pages, Paperback
First published November 28, 2022
About the author
Vida Cruz
10 books188 followersVida Cruz-Borja is a Filipina fantasy and science fiction writer, editor, artist, tarot reader, and conrunner. Her short fiction and essays have been published in F&SF, Fantasy, Strange Horizons, PodCastle, Expanded Horizons, and various anthologies.
She won the 2022 IGNYTE Award for Best Creative Nonfiction for “We are the Mountain: A Look at the Inactive Protagonist,” which will be republished in Letters to a Writer of Color in Spring 2023. She is the author of two illustrated fantasy short story collections: Beyond the Line of Trees (2019) and Song of the Mango and Other New Myths (2022).
Her work in her different fields has been nominated, longlisted, and recommended for the Hugo Award, the British Science Fiction Award, and the James Tiptree Jr. (now Otherwise) Award. She was a 2018 Tiptree Fellow. Currently, she’s a freelance book editor with Tessera Editorial and The Darling Axe and is co-director of FiyahCon Fringe BonFiyah under the larger umbrella of FIYAHCON, a BIPOC-centered convention for science fiction and fantasy readers and writers.
She won the 2022 IGNYTE Award for Best Creative Nonfiction for “We are the Mountain: A Look at the Inactive Protagonist,” which will be republished in Letters to a Writer of Color in Spring 2023. She is the author of two illustrated fantasy short story collections: Beyond the Line of Trees (2019) and Song of the Mango and Other New Myths (2022).
Her work in her different fields has been nominated, longlisted, and recommended for the Hugo Award, the British Science Fiction Award, and the James Tiptree Jr. (now Otherwise) Award. She was a 2018 Tiptree Fellow. Currently, she’s a freelance book editor with Tessera Editorial and The Darling Axe and is co-director of FiyahCon Fringe BonFiyah under the larger umbrella of FIYAHCON, a BIPOC-centered convention for science fiction and fantasy readers and writers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 3, 2023
In a Nutshell: This anthology contains some gems, and there’s no doubt that the author has a wild imagination. As an OwnVoices work, this offers an interesting glimpse of mythical characters from the Philippines.
This indie collection of fifteen stories contains elements and/or characters from Filipino myths but in a contemporary setting, thus lending the book an exotic charm and a novelty.
Several things made me opt for this book, but the strongest two reasons were that stunning cover (Kudos to the cover art illustrator!) and the fact that this was a Filipino work using Filipino mythical creatures! The title was also attractive, especially the term ‘new myths’. The author explains the reason for that term in her introductory note, saying, “…the concept of having a just equitable world, which is the theme of the stories, is nothing but a modern myth.” Quite true!
The stories are taken from a decade’s writing. The page count of 400+ pages should tell you that the stories are not on the shorter side, and the writing style also doesn’t make them quick reads. However, where the stories click is in their creativity and their characters.
The writing structure of the stories is mostly like a fable. But a couple of the tales are written as a newspaper report/interview, with the “journalist” noting down an interesting event and the lead-up to it. These were my favourites, not least because of the uniqueness of the structure. The author has a vivid writing touch, making the story’s world come alive with her words.
I have never read any Filipino fiction or mythology, so this book made me aware of several new (to me) mythical characters such as a diwata and a tikbalang. However, my lack of familiarity also served as an impediment, as the book did not go on to provide any kind of character detailing for these entities. There was also no glossary that could provide a brief insight about the characters. The Kindle dictionary was of no help, and honestly, I was feeling too lazy to pick up my phone to search every new character online. Simply put, a mythological character glossary would have worked wonders for my experience.
The book also contains one B&W illustration per story, with the drawings being sketched by varied illustrators. Some worked nicely for the story and represented a key moment well, others didn’t.
At the end of the book, there is a list of detailed trigger warnings provided separately for each story. Appreciate this effort! I skipped reading two of the stories because of the triggers mentioned, so my rating average won’t include those.
The afterword is written by the author’s creative writing teacher from fifteen years ago, and it was such a delight to read! The teacher also has writing aspirations, and it was quite sporting of her to write such an honest and heartfelt note for her student’s debut anthology.
Of the thirteen stories I read, five stories reached/crossed the four star mark. My favourites were ‘To Megan, with Half My Heart’, and ‘First Play For and By Tikbalang Triggers Uproar on Opening Night’, both having a novelty to their plot and structure.
Definitely recommended to fantasy and mythological retelling lovers, as long as you are prepared to research the mythical creatures to get a better visual image and understanding of the stories.
3.6 stars, based on the average of my ratings for the stories I read.
My thanks to author Vida Cruz-Borja and BookSirens for the DRC of “Song of the Mango and Other New Myths”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The book is also available on Kindle Unlimited.
Note: For some reason, Amazon has marked this as a children’s book, with the suggested reading age range being 10-18 years. I disagree. The themes and the dark content in some of the tales make it an appropriate read for adults, young adults included.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
This indie collection of fifteen stories contains elements and/or characters from Filipino myths but in a contemporary setting, thus lending the book an exotic charm and a novelty.
Several things made me opt for this book, but the strongest two reasons were that stunning cover (Kudos to the cover art illustrator!) and the fact that this was a Filipino work using Filipino mythical creatures! The title was also attractive, especially the term ‘new myths’. The author explains the reason for that term in her introductory note, saying, “…the concept of having a just equitable world, which is the theme of the stories, is nothing but a modern myth.” Quite true!
The stories are taken from a decade’s writing. The page count of 400+ pages should tell you that the stories are not on the shorter side, and the writing style also doesn’t make them quick reads. However, where the stories click is in their creativity and their characters.
The writing structure of the stories is mostly like a fable. But a couple of the tales are written as a newspaper report/interview, with the “journalist” noting down an interesting event and the lead-up to it. These were my favourites, not least because of the uniqueness of the structure. The author has a vivid writing touch, making the story’s world come alive with her words.
I have never read any Filipino fiction or mythology, so this book made me aware of several new (to me) mythical characters such as a diwata and a tikbalang. However, my lack of familiarity also served as an impediment, as the book did not go on to provide any kind of character detailing for these entities. There was also no glossary that could provide a brief insight about the characters. The Kindle dictionary was of no help, and honestly, I was feeling too lazy to pick up my phone to search every new character online. Simply put, a mythological character glossary would have worked wonders for my experience.
The book also contains one B&W illustration per story, with the drawings being sketched by varied illustrators. Some worked nicely for the story and represented a key moment well, others didn’t.
At the end of the book, there is a list of detailed trigger warnings provided separately for each story. Appreciate this effort! I skipped reading two of the stories because of the triggers mentioned, so my rating average won’t include those.
The afterword is written by the author’s creative writing teacher from fifteen years ago, and it was such a delight to read! The teacher also has writing aspirations, and it was quite sporting of her to write such an honest and heartfelt note for her student’s debut anthology.
Of the thirteen stories I read, five stories reached/crossed the four star mark. My favourites were ‘To Megan, with Half My Heart’, and ‘First Play For and By Tikbalang Triggers Uproar on Opening Night’, both having a novelty to their plot and structure.
Definitely recommended to fantasy and mythological retelling lovers, as long as you are prepared to research the mythical creatures to get a better visual image and understanding of the stories.
3.6 stars, based on the average of my ratings for the stories I read.
My thanks to author Vida Cruz-Borja and BookSirens for the DRC of “Song of the Mango and Other New Myths”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The book is also available on Kindle Unlimited.
Note: For some reason, Amazon has marked this as a children’s book, with the suggested reading age range being 10-18 years. I disagree. The themes and the dark content in some of the tales make it an appropriate read for adults, young adults included.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
October 22, 2022
Actual rating: 3.5
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed about half of the stories here as I found them to be quite unique and compelling while the rest I felt like I wasn't smart enough for. The author really showcases her writing chops and creativity in each story. Overall, I think where this anthology shines is how the author was able to mix fantasy with a lot thought-provoking, albeit sometimes heavy-handed, social commentary.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed about half of the stories here as I found them to be quite unique and compelling while the rest I felt like I wasn't smart enough for. The author really showcases her writing chops and creativity in each story. Overall, I think where this anthology shines is how the author was able to mix fantasy with a lot thought-provoking, albeit sometimes heavy-handed, social commentary.
February 15, 2023
When I picked up Song of the Mango and Other New Myths, I was expecting a collection of fantastical, whimsical stories which, rooted in Filipino folklore and mythology, that would sweep me off my feet and take me to places that could only exist in my imagination.
I got all of that and so. Much. More.
At times enchanting and captivating, at times unnerving, Song of the Mango is an anthology like no other. With stories that openly and joyfully celebrate Filipino culture and heritage, Song of the Mango is an epic anthology of fantastical stories written with great, vivid imagery and a lush narrative style.
Though the book is definitely written with a Filipino audience in mind, it was surprisingly easy for someone like me, who have little knowledge about the culture, to dive in and immerse myself in the stories.
Each short story is diverse in its subject matter as it is in its narration style, but several of them definitely took up a special place in my heart. To Megan With Half My Heart, Ink: A Love Story, The Museum of Incomplete Statues, Chosen Mother, A Mask For The Queen of Shards, Child Of Two Worlds, How The Jungle Got Its Spirit Guardian and Odd and Ugly were in my opinion, the best of the stories in this book.
And yes I am aware I have listed what is possibly more than 70% of the book, but that's just a testament of all the wonderful, delightful stories that you can get when you pick Song Of The Mango and Other New Myths.
I also want to send a special thank you to the author for listing the trigger warnings for each story at the end of the book. Such a thoughtful but strangely uncommon gesture really made me happy, as I know that there are tons of readers who have traumas of their own and may feel disturbed by certain subject matters.
I got all of that and so. Much. More.
At times enchanting and captivating, at times unnerving, Song of the Mango is an anthology like no other. With stories that openly and joyfully celebrate Filipino culture and heritage, Song of the Mango is an epic anthology of fantastical stories written with great, vivid imagery and a lush narrative style.
Though the book is definitely written with a Filipino audience in mind, it was surprisingly easy for someone like me, who have little knowledge about the culture, to dive in and immerse myself in the stories.
Each short story is diverse in its subject matter as it is in its narration style, but several of them definitely took up a special place in my heart. To Megan With Half My Heart, Ink: A Love Story, The Museum of Incomplete Statues, Chosen Mother, A Mask For The Queen of Shards, Child Of Two Worlds, How The Jungle Got Its Spirit Guardian and Odd and Ugly were in my opinion, the best of the stories in this book.
And yes I am aware I have listed what is possibly more than 70% of the book, but that's just a testament of all the wonderful, delightful stories that you can get when you pick Song Of The Mango and Other New Myths.
I also want to send a special thank you to the author for listing the trigger warnings for each story at the end of the book. Such a thoughtful but strangely uncommon gesture really made me happy, as I know that there are tons of readers who have traumas of their own and may feel disturbed by certain subject matters.
December 30, 2022
Thank you to the author and publisher for sharing with me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Off the bat, when I finished a few chapters, I thought to myself: “This kinda reminds me of Black Mirror but with Filipino myths and folklore.” And that’s what made this collection so intriguing and interesting for me. Each story has a different format and unique writing style but someone when you look at it as a whole, it is cohesive and consistent and still seemed like they’re written by one person.
I’ll have to admit though that the writing of 1 or 2 stories didn’t work for me and it felt like I was just powering through so I could get to the next story. But overall, the rest of the stories were really good.
I gave this anthology 4 stars and would recommend it to friends, especially Filipino readers, looking for a new and unique spin on Filipino myths and folklore.
Check out the review on my channel: VIDEO LINK
Off the bat, when I finished a few chapters, I thought to myself: “This kinda reminds me of Black Mirror but with Filipino myths and folklore.” And that’s what made this collection so intriguing and interesting for me. Each story has a different format and unique writing style but someone when you look at it as a whole, it is cohesive and consistent and still seemed like they’re written by one person.
I’ll have to admit though that the writing of 1 or 2 stories didn’t work for me and it felt like I was just powering through so I could get to the next story. But overall, the rest of the stories were really good.
I gave this anthology 4 stars and would recommend it to friends, especially Filipino readers, looking for a new and unique spin on Filipino myths and folklore.
Check out the review on my channel: VIDEO LINK
April 9, 2023
I received an ARC of this book from the author through BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
4 stars!
This was a thoroughly enjoyable book, and really mad me appreciate Filipino folk-lore. I might have to do a deep-dive and research more of the culture's myths!
The blend of myths with modern elements is a great way to make these stories more engaging and I found myself totally engrossed with each tale. I found the illustrations to be a nice touch, especially as someone who visualises the books they read.
Sometimes the pacing needed to be broken up and made me want to take a break from the book at times, but overall I think the book had good pacing.
Also, as someone who isn't well-versed in Filipino myths, the terminology went over my head for most of the book. Perhaps a little index page would have helped with that.
Overall, I think this collection of stories were a really great way to present myths and folklore! I would definitely read more in this sort of style!
4 stars!
This was a thoroughly enjoyable book, and really mad me appreciate Filipino folk-lore. I might have to do a deep-dive and research more of the culture's myths!
The blend of myths with modern elements is a great way to make these stories more engaging and I found myself totally engrossed with each tale. I found the illustrations to be a nice touch, especially as someone who visualises the books they read.
Sometimes the pacing needed to be broken up and made me want to take a break from the book at times, but overall I think the book had good pacing.
Also, as someone who isn't well-versed in Filipino myths, the terminology went over my head for most of the book. Perhaps a little index page would have helped with that.
Overall, I think this collection of stories were a really great way to present myths and folklore! I would definitely read more in this sort of style!
July 24, 2024
This was a book I decided to read based on the cover alone and I enjoyed most of the stories in the collection.
I loved the cover which has a brilliant nature vibe.
The author, herself Filipino, has combined elements from Filipino mythology and folklore with a fantastic imagination to create some very interesting tales that take place in the real world with touches of magical realism.
It would have helped if there were some kind of glossary for the various mythical creatures referenced as there were so many.
First play for and by Tikbalang Triggers was my personal favourite.
I loved the cover which has a brilliant nature vibe.
The author, herself Filipino, has combined elements from Filipino mythology and folklore with a fantastic imagination to create some very interesting tales that take place in the real world with touches of magical realism.
It would have helped if there were some kind of glossary for the various mythical creatures referenced as there were so many.
First play for and by Tikbalang Triggers was my personal favourite.
March 1, 2025
Been meaning to get more into Filipino literature since reading Patricia Evangelista’s Some People Need Killing last year. The perfect opportunity came when I was gifted this book (ty Nicole!!!).
I’ve always been wary of short stories compiled into a book. For some reason, I find it hard to transition from one story to another so I tend just avoid this style altogether. Though I encountered no such problems reading this book. Each story was definitely unique and the world building was magical. I was already captivated with the first story, “Song of the Mango” and by the seventh, I had to pace myself to savor each one.
I’m glad that I grew up with a nerd of an older brother who spews facts about mythology like it’s nothing as well as stories of kapres, duwendes, santelmos, and sirenas by aunts in the province, that reading this was a breeze. Although I recall little me was scared shitless whenever stories like these were brought up. I felt that this book stripped away the horror or the negative connotations that we typically hear or read about our mythical creatures. Creating instead a glimpse of a world co-existing with kapres as theatre actors or diwatas as café owners. All of this done with a brilliant social commentary that makes you realize that humans do cause more damage in our world.
While this book is heartbreaking in a way that the one-liners get you the most, the humor in this book is so endearingly Filipino. I think this was one of my favorite parts to read— from a drunk bakunawa drinking and ranting about eating moons to naming your son, the chosen one, “bob”. The illustrations at the end of each story are also so beautiful! I couldn’t do the details in each story justice if I wrote about it. This is the kind of writing that makes you wish you had the talent to conceptualize and materialize just an ounce of an idea such as this.
Some of my favorites are:
Song of the Mango
To Megan, With Half My Heart
In the Shadow of the Typhoon, Humans and Mahiwaga Cooperate for Survival
Call of the Rimefolk
Have Your #Hugot Harvested at This Diwata-Owned Café
(this is me trying not to list every story lol)
I’ve always been wary of short stories compiled into a book. For some reason, I find it hard to transition from one story to another so I tend just avoid this style altogether. Though I encountered no such problems reading this book. Each story was definitely unique and the world building was magical. I was already captivated with the first story, “Song of the Mango” and by the seventh, I had to pace myself to savor each one.
I’m glad that I grew up with a nerd of an older brother who spews facts about mythology like it’s nothing as well as stories of kapres, duwendes, santelmos, and sirenas by aunts in the province, that reading this was a breeze. Although I recall little me was scared shitless whenever stories like these were brought up. I felt that this book stripped away the horror or the negative connotations that we typically hear or read about our mythical creatures. Creating instead a glimpse of a world co-existing with kapres as theatre actors or diwatas as café owners. All of this done with a brilliant social commentary that makes you realize that humans do cause more damage in our world.
While this book is heartbreaking in a way that the one-liners get you the most, the humor in this book is so endearingly Filipino. I think this was one of my favorite parts to read— from a drunk bakunawa drinking and ranting about eating moons to naming your son, the chosen one, “bob”. The illustrations at the end of each story are also so beautiful! I couldn’t do the details in each story justice if I wrote about it. This is the kind of writing that makes you wish you had the talent to conceptualize and materialize just an ounce of an idea such as this.
Some of my favorites are:
Song of the Mango
To Megan, With Half My Heart
In the Shadow of the Typhoon, Humans and Mahiwaga Cooperate for Survival
Call of the Rimefolk
Have Your #Hugot Harvested at This Diwata-Owned Café
(this is me trying not to list every story lol)
January 20, 2023
I really enjoyed how the stories were sometimes intertwined and formed something more intricate but there is a couple of stories where I had to back track and reread because I wasn't sure what was going on this is the only reason it's not getting a 5 stars rating from me.
This collection exists at the intersection of something that feels both familiar and new, at least for me (I have only a very passing acquaintance with Filipino culture and folklore), like I've known these characters before, and I've known their circumstances, but I can't quite put my finger on where I've seen them before.
There are a few stories that would fit squarely into the urban fantasy genre with a Filipino twist, and I was particularly fond of these. Some of the stories left me wanting more and I would have definitely liked to spend more time in the universe Cruz has built.
Disclosure: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher through Booksirens in exchange for an honest review.
This collection exists at the intersection of something that feels both familiar and new, at least for me (I have only a very passing acquaintance with Filipino culture and folklore), like I've known these characters before, and I've known their circumstances, but I can't quite put my finger on where I've seen them before.
There are a few stories that would fit squarely into the urban fantasy genre with a Filipino twist, and I was particularly fond of these. Some of the stories left me wanting more and I would have definitely liked to spend more time in the universe Cruz has built.
Disclosure: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher through Booksirens in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2023
Actual Ratings
Song of the Mango- 4.0/5.0
To Megan, with Half My Heart- 3.5/5.0
First Play For and by Tikbalang Triggers Uproar on Opening Night- 4.5/5.0
The Museum of Incomplete Statues- 3.0/5.0
Chosen Mother- 4.5/5.0
Voices in the Air- 3.5/5.0
In the Shadow of the Typhoon, Humans and Mahiwaga Cooperate for Survival- 4.25/5.0
Blushing Blue- 3.25/5.0
Ink: A Love Story- 3.0/5.0
Call of the Rimefolk- 4.75/5.0
Queen of Shards- 3.5/5.0
Child of Two Worlds- 4.75/5.0
How the Jungle Got Its Spirit Guardian- 4.25/5.0
Have Your #Hugot Harvested at This Diwata-Owned Cafe- 3.5/5.0
Odd and Ugly- 5.0/5.0
Average Rating: 3.95/5.0
Full review of every short story will release later on
Song of the Mango- 4.0/5.0
To Megan, with Half My Heart- 3.5/5.0
First Play For and by Tikbalang Triggers Uproar on Opening Night- 4.5/5.0
The Museum of Incomplete Statues- 3.0/5.0
Chosen Mother- 4.5/5.0
Voices in the Air- 3.5/5.0
In the Shadow of the Typhoon, Humans and Mahiwaga Cooperate for Survival- 4.25/5.0
Blushing Blue- 3.25/5.0
Ink: A Love Story- 3.0/5.0
Call of the Rimefolk- 4.75/5.0
Queen of Shards- 3.5/5.0
Child of Two Worlds- 4.75/5.0
How the Jungle Got Its Spirit Guardian- 4.25/5.0
Have Your #Hugot Harvested at This Diwata-Owned Cafe- 3.5/5.0
Odd and Ugly- 5.0/5.0
Average Rating: 3.95/5.0
Full review of every short story will release later on
April 16, 2023
What an AMAZING book! As someone who loves magical realism, folklore, and mythology encroaching on realistic worlds in fiction, this has by far been the best short story collection I've read that incorporates all these things and demands the reader to challenge their inherent points of view and subvert our expectations of how stories can be told. I'm also quite jealous that this author has such a following from her mentors and peers in the SFF world. As someone who is struggling through my own short fiction of Filipino folklore and stories of hybridity and colonialism, I find this book to be a master class on genre craft that I look forward to coming back to.
February 25, 2023
A very impressive varied, inventive and often surprising short fiction collection I definitely recommend and shout out to the amazing illustrations too! A writer to watch out for
Full review - https://www.runalongtheshelves.net/bl...
Full review - https://www.runalongtheshelves.net/bl...
May 2, 2023
A nice find on KU. This is a collection of short stories based on Filipino mythology. I connected with some stories more than others.
February 12, 2023
My favorites are the stories from Ma. Rosario P. Herrera of The Archipelago Daily, especially “In the Shadow of the Typhoon, Humans and Mahiwaga Cooperate for Survival.” Love commentary on climate change and environmentalism, as well as the story starting off on the sea. Although Maria Makiling opening the Heartbreak Cafe was very imaginative as well.
Other stories were a hit-and-miss for me (just preferences here) but I will say this collection started and ended strong. “Odd and Ugly” wrapped this book up well with its Spanish colonization take on “Beauty and the Beast.”
Other stories were a hit-and-miss for me (just preferences here) but I will say this collection started and ended strong. “Odd and Ugly” wrapped this book up well with its Spanish colonization take on “Beauty and the Beast.”
November 28, 2024
I enjoyed all the stories, although none of them were my particular favorite. But I enjoyed several more than others: Song of the Mango, Have Your #Hugot Harvested at This Diwata-Owned Café, and Odd and Ugly. I like that Cruz-Borja made this fantasy, because I loved reading all about our mythical creatures, which Cruz-Borja puts to work. I love that shit. May kapre at diwata sa mga kwento niya, syempre — hindi naman na mawawala yun — pero merong mga iba na bihira mo marinig, parang yung tamawo o yung kataw (na kung sa Bisaya lang meron e baka kaya naninibago ’tong Manilenyong to).
✦ Song of the Mango
Tragedy, vengeance, family, and forgiveness. That’s good shit, especially the vengeance part. Although you of course root for Saha, Cruz-Borja makes Maragat and Tila sympathetic and understandable as well. I’m just glad Cruz-Borja went with a “WE FIGHT” ending for this as well.
✦ Have Your #Hugot Harvested at This Diwata-Owned Café
Part of a mini-series within Cruz-Borja’s anthology, where “mythics” interact with normal Filipinos, and an intrepid journalist writes about those interactions. I enjoyed this story because it does pose a lot of questions to the reader. If you were suffering from heartbreak, would you want to have it taken away? If you weren’t, would you want to taste it? But if you “just” had a taste of it, would it really affect your life? But on the other hand, all the money Makiling is making is going back into the community, since she’s not some filthy capitalist. Does that then “offset” any of the possibly iffy ethics? Seriously, just the idea put my brain into gear.
✦ Odd and Ugly
I would have liked this regardless of what happened, because in the end the characters advocate for revolution. YES, MGA KAPATID. PAALISIN ANG MGA KASTILA!
Special mention: Child of Two Worlds was interesting — Dean Alfar’s “An Excerpt from A Door Opens: The Beginning of the Fall of the Ispancialo-in-Hinirang (Emprensa Press: 2007)” is one of my favorite short stories because of how it conjures up this fantasy Philippine landscape despite its length. Child of Two Worlds takes place in the same universe, and it is the kind of historical fantasy that I always want to read in Philippine (fantasy) literature.
That said, I found myself zoning out while reading, I think mostly because I was really kinda meh on Mateo. I was kinda hoping that Adelfa would figure shit out without the need for like a push from another character whom I found kind of irritating. So I can’t really say that I “enjoyed it more.”
And probably the story that I found most disappointing was A Mask for the Queen of Shards. A lot of Cruz-Borja’s stories had a Filipino flavor up to that point, excepting Chosen Mother; Mask was rather more distinctly American young adult ~romantic fantasy with the typical ~intrigue and also, as expected, a kalabang-kakampi in the form of Emerald. But with all the horrifying things that happened, I would have liked more closure and oh I don’t fucking know, a goddamn apology from that bitch Emerald, instead of “Well now you’re free to do what you want and now I’m the Queen!” Ina mo ka pala e, literally. Basta nabwisit ako sa kwentong to kase nakakabwisit si Emerald tas bobols pa si Cerulean. Hayup.
But, Mask aside, this was really good. Maybe Cruz-Borja will do a full-length fantasy novel next (at sana ay Pinoy ang dating)? Fingers crossed.
✦ Song of the Mango
Tragedy, vengeance, family, and forgiveness. That’s good shit, especially the vengeance part. Although you of course root for Saha, Cruz-Borja makes Maragat and Tila sympathetic and understandable as well. I’m just glad Cruz-Borja went with a “WE FIGHT” ending for this as well.
✦ Have Your #Hugot Harvested at This Diwata-Owned Café
Part of a mini-series within Cruz-Borja’s anthology, where “mythics” interact with normal Filipinos, and an intrepid journalist writes about those interactions. I enjoyed this story because it does pose a lot of questions to the reader. If you were suffering from heartbreak, would you want to have it taken away? If you weren’t, would you want to taste it? But if you “just” had a taste of it, would it really affect your life? But on the other hand, all the money Makiling is making is going back into the community, since she’s not some filthy capitalist. Does that then “offset” any of the possibly iffy ethics? Seriously, just the idea put my brain into gear.
✦ Odd and Ugly
I would have liked this regardless of what happened, because in the end the characters advocate for revolution. YES, MGA KAPATID. PAALISIN ANG MGA KASTILA!
Special mention: Child of Two Worlds was interesting — Dean Alfar’s “An Excerpt from A Door Opens: The Beginning of the Fall of the Ispancialo-in-Hinirang (Emprensa Press: 2007)” is one of my favorite short stories because of how it conjures up this fantasy Philippine landscape despite its length. Child of Two Worlds takes place in the same universe, and it is the kind of historical fantasy that I always want to read in Philippine (fantasy) literature.
That said, I found myself zoning out while reading, I think mostly because I was really kinda meh on Mateo. I was kinda hoping that Adelfa would figure shit out without the need for like a push from another character whom I found kind of irritating. So I can’t really say that I “enjoyed it more.”
And probably the story that I found most disappointing was A Mask for the Queen of Shards. A lot of Cruz-Borja’s stories had a Filipino flavor up to that point, excepting Chosen Mother; Mask was rather more distinctly American young adult ~romantic fantasy with the typical ~intrigue and also, as expected, a kalabang-kakampi in the form of Emerald. But with all the horrifying things that happened, I would have liked more closure and oh I don’t fucking know, a goddamn apology from that bitch Emerald, instead of “Well now you’re free to do what you want and now I’m the Queen!” Ina mo ka pala e, literally. Basta nabwisit ako sa kwentong to kase nakakabwisit si Emerald tas bobols pa si Cerulean. Hayup.
But, Mask aside, this was really good. Maybe Cruz-Borja will do a full-length fantasy novel next (at sana ay Pinoy ang dating)? Fingers crossed.
August 13, 2026
"Humans believe more strongly than any other being on this earth, and yet, you cannot even believe in yourselves long enough to get your act together."
- In the Shadow of the Typhoon
Synopsis:
This is a collection of short stories about Filipino myths, folklore, and more, starring diwatas, kapres, tikbalangs, magic-users, etc. Plus it has beautiful illustrations per story!
Thoughts:
I really enjoyed a lot of the stories here. I liked that there was subtle humor in some of them. While reading, I felt nostalgic for the Filipino myths I read as a child.
My faves didn't actually feature recognizable Filipino creatures. "Blushing Blue" is about tattoo magic, and "Call of the Rimefolk" is about aliens.
My ratings and very short thoughts on each of the stories:
1. Song of the Mango ⭐⭐⭐
I like how the story was extended from the usual origin stories that we grow up with. This is an origin story of the mango, but it's also about different kinds of love and sacrifice.
2. To Megan, with Half My Heart ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Epistolary. This was emotional and it was not what I expected.
3. First Play For and By Tikbalang Triggers Uproar on Opening Night ⭐⭐⭐
It's written like a news article, so that was something to get used to. I learned a new term: Ilustrado Complex, meaning when highly-educated humans think they're championing the cause of mythics.
Everything is 4 stars after this point.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. The Museum of Incomplete Statues - On freezing time vs. living life with all its risks and possibilities...
5. Chosen Mother - This was fun! This was kind of like a parody almost for the Chosen One trope.
6. Voices in the Air - We continue the story of the same characters in "Song of the Mango". What's the deal with sacrificing maidens?
7. In the Shadow of the Typhoon, Humans and Mahiwaga Cooperate for Survival. - I really liked this one! It's another one in a news article style. The valedictorian and the kataw princess's story was so touching.
8. Blushing Blue - A fave! The tattoo magic system was really interesting. The story was heart-breaking.
9. Ink: A Love Story - the human main characters were terrible
10. Call of the Rimefolk - Another fave! This got me emotional. Aliens.
11. A Mask for the Queen of Shards - Okay, I like the twist!
12. Child of Two Worlds - Find your own path.
13. How the Jungle Got Its Spirit Guardian - This was really good! Involves two generations of families and gods
14. Have Your #Hugot Harvested at the Diwata-Owned Cafe - This kind of reminded me of stories like Before the Coffee Gets Cold, but with Philippine politics involved.
15. Odd and Ugly - This was in 2nd person POV and I enjoyed getting to know the kapre.
- Average: 3.6 ~ ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- - -
Other quotes I like:
"Isn't it strange how just a few words create barriers between people whose hands might otherwise fit together like puzzle pieces?" -- To Megan, with Half My Heart
"Predicted futures, as the Historie had taught her, were untrue when good and very much true when absolutely dismal." -- Chosen Mother
"If you ask me, parents are overrated... After a while, you realize they're frozen in time and would like to freeze you, too." -- Chosen Mother
June 9, 2023
Received a review copy from BookSirens
General content warnings: death, violence, racism, natural disasters
I had seen this gorgeous cover floating around and was thrilled to get an opportunity to read this collection of stories that retellings and reimaginings of Filipino myths. Though I admittedly lack the proper cultural context for thorough appreciation, each of these stories left something with me, be it evocative imagery, complex relationships between humans and divine beings, and immersive narration. Cruz-Borja is clearly experimental in her presentation, so if you’re looking for imagined news articles, more straightforward accounts, or compelling tales in second person, this has something for every story itch.
Cruz-Borja drops the reader right into the thick of things when it comes to her story-telling. There is some contextualization to deftly establish tone and time period across each work. There’s a passion for the characters that appears as an emergent property. Despite some heavier topics covered, hope permeates each tale in a way that focuses on the collective and feels really fresh.
There are also illustrations accompanying each story from different Filipino artists, and this collaboration really worked for me. The range of styles, both within the prose and the art, makes this such a dynamic collection that I highly recommend.
Here are my favorites:
“Song of the Mango”
* A grieving slave’s brothers is brought back to life as a mango true
* While it could have been about being careful what one wishes for, it really shows how the dead are never really gone, especially in the context of divine intervention
* TW: death (sibling), violence, animal violence, beating, rape (implied), abortion, mention of slavery
“Voices in the Air”
* A servant and a princess run into a village where a kataw steals the village’s daughters
* References the opening story in a way that adds a richness of world-building
* Spooky with floating, fiery skulls, and using music and poetry as a form of magic
*TW: serial killings, death of a child, violence, physical assault, racism, lookism
“Call of the Rimefolk”
* Interspace and inter-dimensional travel about a new species discovered on Pluto
* Compelling science fiction story of professional jealousy and anger as a form of love
* TW: animal abuse (implied), impalement, blood, terminal illness
“A Mask for the Queen of Shards”
* An elaborate ritual means a prince’s betrothed has to create the most beautiful thing for the eponymous queen
* This story has everything: duplicity, love prevailing, murder, court intrigue
* TW: death by poisoning, execution, slapping, parental abuse, emotional abuse, gaslighting, imprisonment
“Odd and Ugly”
* A kapre falls in love with a girl who comes to him asking for aid amidst a revolution
* I really enjoy how this collection is bookended with two very tender relationships between humans and mythological beings
* TW: falling off a cliff, execution, physical assault, gun violence, racism, slavery
General content warnings: death, violence, racism, natural disasters
I had seen this gorgeous cover floating around and was thrilled to get an opportunity to read this collection of stories that retellings and reimaginings of Filipino myths. Though I admittedly lack the proper cultural context for thorough appreciation, each of these stories left something with me, be it evocative imagery, complex relationships between humans and divine beings, and immersive narration. Cruz-Borja is clearly experimental in her presentation, so if you’re looking for imagined news articles, more straightforward accounts, or compelling tales in second person, this has something for every story itch.
Cruz-Borja drops the reader right into the thick of things when it comes to her story-telling. There is some contextualization to deftly establish tone and time period across each work. There’s a passion for the characters that appears as an emergent property. Despite some heavier topics covered, hope permeates each tale in a way that focuses on the collective and feels really fresh.
There are also illustrations accompanying each story from different Filipino artists, and this collaboration really worked for me. The range of styles, both within the prose and the art, makes this such a dynamic collection that I highly recommend.
Here are my favorites:
“Song of the Mango”
* A grieving slave’s brothers is brought back to life as a mango true
* While it could have been about being careful what one wishes for, it really shows how the dead are never really gone, especially in the context of divine intervention
* TW: death (sibling), violence, animal violence, beating, rape (implied), abortion, mention of slavery
“Voices in the Air”
* A servant and a princess run into a village where a kataw steals the village’s daughters
* References the opening story in a way that adds a richness of world-building
* Spooky with floating, fiery skulls, and using music and poetry as a form of magic
*TW: serial killings, death of a child, violence, physical assault, racism, lookism
“Call of the Rimefolk”
* Interspace and inter-dimensional travel about a new species discovered on Pluto
* Compelling science fiction story of professional jealousy and anger as a form of love
* TW: animal abuse (implied), impalement, blood, terminal illness
“A Mask for the Queen of Shards”
* An elaborate ritual means a prince’s betrothed has to create the most beautiful thing for the eponymous queen
* This story has everything: duplicity, love prevailing, murder, court intrigue
* TW: death by poisoning, execution, slapping, parental abuse, emotional abuse, gaslighting, imprisonment
“Odd and Ugly”
* A kapre falls in love with a girl who comes to him asking for aid amidst a revolution
* I really enjoy how this collection is bookended with two very tender relationships between humans and mythological beings
* TW: falling off a cliff, execution, physical assault, gun violence, racism, slavery
April 23, 2023
Thank you to BookSirens for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Song of the Mango and Other New Myths was an absolute pleasure to experience, from start to finish. Each short story is so vivid, the prose flows so smoothly that you feel fully immersed in a world of fantasy and whimsy.
It gets off to a very strong start with the titular story, Song of the Mango, and draws you in completely step by step. It was a brilliant choice to have the first three stories be so different to one another - a myth, a letter, and a newspaper article - the variety means that the reader is never bored. Granted, not all article-style stories worked equally well - for example, In the Shadow of the Typhoon, Humans and Mahiwaga Cooperate for Survival felt a bit disjointed, like many little ideas that weren't fully explored in separate short stories, the overall impression the short story collection leaves is overwhelmingly positive - commendably, it is more than the sum of its parts.
Having such a strong line-up of stories means that it's especially hard to pick a favorite - almost all of these stories found a special place in my heart, from Chosen Mother, a tale told from the perspective of the mother of a Chosen One, to Call of the Rimefolk, a love letter to the wildlife conservation efforts.
The inclusion of content warnings was great too, I was only left wishing for an addendum with a little more information of the mythological creatures mentioned in the story. Unfortunately, in most cases Wikipedia is severely lacking in information on them, and while there are some sources on the internet overall, an addendum would make for an even more immersive experience.
Song of the Mango and Other New Myths was an absolute pleasure to experience, from start to finish. Each short story is so vivid, the prose flows so smoothly that you feel fully immersed in a world of fantasy and whimsy.
It gets off to a very strong start with the titular story, Song of the Mango, and draws you in completely step by step. It was a brilliant choice to have the first three stories be so different to one another - a myth, a letter, and a newspaper article - the variety means that the reader is never bored. Granted, not all article-style stories worked equally well - for example, In the Shadow of the Typhoon, Humans and Mahiwaga Cooperate for Survival felt a bit disjointed, like many little ideas that weren't fully explored in separate short stories, the overall impression the short story collection leaves is overwhelmingly positive - commendably, it is more than the sum of its parts.
Having such a strong line-up of stories means that it's especially hard to pick a favorite - almost all of these stories found a special place in my heart, from Chosen Mother, a tale told from the perspective of the mother of a Chosen One, to Call of the Rimefolk, a love letter to the wildlife conservation efforts.
The inclusion of content warnings was great too, I was only left wishing for an addendum with a little more information of the mythological creatures mentioned in the story. Unfortunately, in most cases Wikipedia is severely lacking in information on them, and while there are some sources on the internet overall, an addendum would make for an even more immersive experience.
April 5, 2023
A wonderful collection of stories that reinvent, challenge, and retell familiar and unknown Philippine-based myths and fairytales. There's whimsy, heartbreak, philosophical musings, and socio-political commentary all in this book of stories, all presented in captivating and often winking prose. I loved the depth of worldbuilding in these stories, particularly the introduction of long-lost societal roles in pre-colonial Philippines (best seen in Song of Mango and Voices in the Air), as well as the integration of known mythical figures but characterized beyond the prejudices and superstitions shrouding them. It's hard to pick favorites among the stories but I do think that the author absolutely excels in immersing us readers within first-person intimate narrations, whether in the cynical, sorrowful narrator in the "Song of Mango"/"Voices in the Air" or in the intriguing first-person account reports in "The Shadow of the Typhoon, Humans and Mahiwaga Cooperate for Survival."
On a minor note, I know there may be some readers who are disheartened or startled with the lack of English translation on some segments but personally, I really enjoyed the use of the native, local languages. It integrates quite seamlessly with the English prose, to be honest, and I loved finding the connections of these words to the culture within these stories.
Overall, I loved this short story collection. I would definitely keep going back to its intriguing premises and challenges to how we choose to perceive and shape the myths and legends of the past going forward.
On a minor note, I know there may be some readers who are disheartened or startled with the lack of English translation on some segments but personally, I really enjoyed the use of the native, local languages. It integrates quite seamlessly with the English prose, to be honest, and I loved finding the connections of these words to the culture within these stories.
Overall, I loved this short story collection. I would definitely keep going back to its intriguing premises and challenges to how we choose to perceive and shape the myths and legends of the past going forward.
March 23, 2023
The ‘Song of Mango and Other New Myths” was a collections of stories that crosses many genres including fantasy, myth/legend and science-fiction. I enjoyed the stories that combined contemporary society with fantasy. There were also mythology from the Philippines that influenced many of the stories. I enjoyed learning about this mythology throughout the stories and how the author connected it to human experiences. I also wanted to give some appreciation for the list of trigger warnings that this book included near the end of the book. This helps readers navigate through the book more comfortably.
My favorite story overall was ‘Chosen Mother’ as it had a lot of adventure and humour. It made me laugh out loud a couple times. I also really enjoyed ‘How the Jungle Got It’s Spirit Guardian’. These stories remind me of the books I used to read as a kid. Filled with legends that can be read over and over.
Overall, these stories all pair well together as they tackle similar themes of human connection and connections with the divine realm. I found some of the stories hard to follow at times but I enjoyed almost all of the stories. I think my main issue was that I wished some of the stories could have been a whole book themselves. They felt like they could offer so much more as full length books. I wanted to be able to stay in these worlds a little bit longer.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My favorite story overall was ‘Chosen Mother’ as it had a lot of adventure and humour. It made me laugh out loud a couple times. I also really enjoyed ‘How the Jungle Got It’s Spirit Guardian’. These stories remind me of the books I used to read as a kid. Filled with legends that can be read over and over.
Overall, these stories all pair well together as they tackle similar themes of human connection and connections with the divine realm. I found some of the stories hard to follow at times but I enjoyed almost all of the stories. I think my main issue was that I wished some of the stories could have been a whole book themselves. They felt like they could offer so much more as full length books. I wanted to be able to stay in these worlds a little bit longer.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 3, 2023
Isn't nice to find a short story collection where you learn something you didn't know before? Because Song of the Mango lives up to its hook: Filipino folktales and myths with modern twists. Even if I didn't enjoy a story, each one taught me something new by encouraging me to look up the original tale/mythological figure.
The variety within the collection is admirable because it's a pretty hefty book with snazzy illustrations. I liked that the variety of illustrators matched the changing tones for each tale, as they add unique flavor to each piece. Two of my personal favorites were Blushing Blue and Have Your #Hugot Harvested at This Diwata-Owned Café with Maria Makiling references.
Song of the Mango is a welcome short story collection that deviates from the Anglosphere in a wonderful way. I wouldn't say that you could read these stories to children at bedtime as they are often lengthy. More like a collection for passionate readers and dreamers to spend an afternoon away. Possibly encouraging for anyone who wants to take a Wikipedia walk too.
Wonder how an audiobook adaptation would sound. I'd be curious to know how to correctly pronounce the character names.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The variety within the collection is admirable because it's a pretty hefty book with snazzy illustrations. I liked that the variety of illustrators matched the changing tones for each tale, as they add unique flavor to each piece. Two of my personal favorites were Blushing Blue and Have Your #Hugot Harvested at This Diwata-Owned Café with Maria Makiling references.
Song of the Mango is a welcome short story collection that deviates from the Anglosphere in a wonderful way. I wouldn't say that you could read these stories to children at bedtime as they are often lengthy. More like a collection for passionate readers and dreamers to spend an afternoon away. Possibly encouraging for anyone who wants to take a Wikipedia walk too.
Wonder how an audiobook adaptation would sound. I'd be curious to know how to correctly pronounce the character names.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 3, 2025
Matagal din bago ko natapos ang koleksyong ito. Nasimulan ko lang ito noong huling linggo ng Nobyembre kung saan inimbitahan namin si Ms. Vida Cruz-Borja para sa Book Talakayan. Papunta sa venue, doon ko unang nabasa ang unang kuwento na The Song of the Mango. Nakakahiya, kung ako tatanungin, dahil doon ko lang din nasimulan basahin ang aklat, pero matapos 'yon, naging dahilan din 'yon para basahin ko ang buong aklat—kahit paunti-unti.
Unang kuwento pa lang, napanganga na ako nang matapos ko 'yon basahin. Hindi ko akalain na paulit-ulit 'yon na mangyayari hanggang sa kahuli-hulihang kuwento sa aklat. Tapos kakailanganin ko rin ng oras para huminga at i-proseso sa utak ang mga nabasa. Paulit-ulit din na itatanong ng utak ko: Paano? Paano niya naisulat ito? Na gusto ko ring malaman para ma-i-apply sa sariling panulat. Hindi ka bibiguin ng aklat, lalo na sa pagiging diverse ng mga kuwento rito.
Maraming salamat sa panulat ng manunulat, at sa mga kuwento niyang nabasa ko. Matiyaga akong mag-aabang ng kaniyang susunod na aklat sa hinaharap. Handa akong maligaw sa bawat mundo na kaniyang lilikhain.
Unang kuwento pa lang, napanganga na ako nang matapos ko 'yon basahin. Hindi ko akalain na paulit-ulit 'yon na mangyayari hanggang sa kahuli-hulihang kuwento sa aklat. Tapos kakailanganin ko rin ng oras para huminga at i-proseso sa utak ang mga nabasa. Paulit-ulit din na itatanong ng utak ko: Paano? Paano niya naisulat ito? Na gusto ko ring malaman para ma-i-apply sa sariling panulat. Hindi ka bibiguin ng aklat, lalo na sa pagiging diverse ng mga kuwento rito.
Maraming salamat sa panulat ng manunulat, at sa mga kuwento niyang nabasa ko. Matiyaga akong mag-aabang ng kaniyang susunod na aklat sa hinaharap. Handa akong maligaw sa bawat mundo na kaniyang lilikhain.
March 30, 2023
I received an Advance Review Copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Song of the Mango and Other New Myths is an anthology of short stories that are fantastical and fascinating, all revolving and taking inspiration from Filipino culture and folklore. Most of the stories felt like classical fantasy and some, modern scifi. I did find a few of the pieces to be a bit of a drag, especially the ones written in an article style. But it was still worth the read with its timely and relevant social commentary. It was also entertaining to read how the 'mango' was incorporated into each story; whether integral to the plot or not. I really liked the author's fantasy writing style and to be more specific, the author writes fantasy stories really well. If I had to choose just one favorite, it would be "Ink: A Love Story".
Song of the Mango and Other New Myths is an anthology of short stories that are fantastical and fascinating, all revolving and taking inspiration from Filipino culture and folklore. Most of the stories felt like classical fantasy and some, modern scifi. I did find a few of the pieces to be a bit of a drag, especially the ones written in an article style. But it was still worth the read with its timely and relevant social commentary. It was also entertaining to read how the 'mango' was incorporated into each story; whether integral to the plot or not. I really liked the author's fantasy writing style and to be more specific, the author writes fantasy stories really well. If I had to choose just one favorite, it would be "Ink: A Love Story".
January 3, 2024
Recommended by a friend for the world challenge I'm doing (reading one book from each country). As far as I know, this is the first book I've read by a Filipino/Filipina author and I enjoyed it a lot. Some of the stories carried lyricism that reminded me of Persian tales while others were modern and relatable with a pinch of magic. The occasional bits in Tagalog that weren't translated confused me at times and I had to look up a whole bunch of words but I think that contributed to the pleasant experience. I wasn't overly familiar with philippine mythology prior to reading the book but now I'm really curious to find out more. Great start to 2024 for sure.
February 16, 2025
★★★ // had some strong stories at the start and the end, some stories in the middle just okay. it took me a while to finish this because i did feel overwhelmed at some point. but focusing more on the positives: a collection rich in myths and mythical characters familiar to me; well-written that it was easy to paint vivid pictures in my head; and various approaches to tell such stories in so many interesting ways (i especially enjoyed the news-like ones).
favourite: how the jungle got its spirit guardian
“boys are not supposed to cook.”
“and girls are not supposed to hunt.”
📍 read for book club (jan ‘25)
favourite: how the jungle got its spirit guardian
“boys are not supposed to cook.”
“and girls are not supposed to hunt.”
📍 read for book club (jan ‘25)
September 14, 2025
2.5 rating
It’s hard to find books on Filipino mythology/pre-colonial Philippines, so I got super excited to have come across this book! But I struggled getting through it…the first story started VERY strong and I devoured it, but the following stories fell flat for me. The language/writing at times felt awkward and kind of distracting. The premise of each story had potential, and I really wanted to push through just to know what happens and how things end, but the writing lost me at times. I got a bit bored with some stories, but there was so much potential!!!
Maybe it’s just not for me.
It’s hard to find books on Filipino mythology/pre-colonial Philippines, so I got super excited to have come across this book! But I struggled getting through it…the first story started VERY strong and I devoured it, but the following stories fell flat for me. The language/writing at times felt awkward and kind of distracting. The premise of each story had potential, and I really wanted to push through just to know what happens and how things end, but the writing lost me at times. I got a bit bored with some stories, but there was so much potential!!!
Maybe it’s just not for me.
January 20, 2023
I love fairy tales and legends, always have. That's why I wanted to read this book. Some of the stories were excellent. Others, you get hung up in the language with no translation, and it's frustrating. Some of the stories flow beautifully. Others ramble and stumble and make little sense. I loves the mosaic mask one. I also loved the last one in the book. If more of the Tagalog was translated,and if some of the passages of it weren't quite so long, maybe those would flow better. It has potential.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 16, 2023
I received an eARC of this book from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
3.5⭐ Some stories were definitely a hit or a miss for me. Overall though I am ecstatic that we get to have more books like this. I, for one, have always been OBSESSED with mythology growing up (Greek, Egyptian, Japanese, etc.) but used to have zero to minimal access to Philippine-related resources.
That being said, I still had to power through Song of the Mango and Other New Myths; hence, the rating. Writing-wise, it wasn't bad. But it was nothing to write home about, either.
3.5⭐ Some stories were definitely a hit or a miss for me. Overall though I am ecstatic that we get to have more books like this. I, for one, have always been OBSESSED with mythology growing up (Greek, Egyptian, Japanese, etc.) but used to have zero to minimal access to Philippine-related resources.
That being said, I still had to power through Song of the Mango and Other New Myths; hence, the rating. Writing-wise, it wasn't bad. But it was nothing to write home about, either.
January 8, 2023
I love getting to learn about new mythology and I love retellings as well. It had what I was looking for and I was glad I got to learn about Filipino mythology. Vida Cruz-Borja does a great job in writing unique tales and I enjoyed how well they were written. I can't wait to read more from Vida Cruz-Borja as I enjoyed this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 24, 2023
Inventive stories that carry what feels like a depth of heritage, and developed with beautifully written imagery. I enjoyed the folklore feel, both in the content and writing style, and also the diverse topics covered in these stories. The world building and variety of characters were often confusing and could have been more clearly described.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 26, 2023
This was an enjoyable read! Coming from a deeply European heritage, I was largely unfamiliar with Filippino folktales and legends. My sister was adopted from the Phillippines and this has been a great insight into her culture and opened up new talking points for both of us. This is a book I'd recommend for everyone to read especially if you love legends!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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