What's a good read?
Filipino young adult authors are making waves with fresh, compelling stories. These new releases showcase modern life’s complexities, Filipino mythology, and urban struggles. Discover the next big names in Filipino YA through these additions to your reading list.
“Hue City” by Claire Betita De Guzman
Claire Betita De Guzman, known for her contemporary fiction, takes a bold new direction with Hue City. This novel follows three vastly different individuals—a scammer, a part-time pimp, and a wealthy Singaporean writer—who cross paths in the historic Vietnamese city. Unexpected consequences abound as the characters’ experiences intertwine. The storytelling is gritty and introspective while nuanced as each character seeks reinvention.
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“Daybreaker” by Tori Tadiar
Tori Tadiar introduces an exciting middle-grade graphic novel that dives deep into Filipino mythology. Daybreaker, the first book in the Ilustra Series, follows Mika Mirasol, a boarding school student who dismisses myths and folklore—until she encounters a mysterious moth carrying her grandmother’s voice. If you’re a fan of mythology and adventure, follow Mika as she uncovers her newfound powers and secrets of history. Tadiar’s culturally rich novel hits shelves in June 2025.
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“The Power Above Us All” by Ronaldo Vivo Jr.
A gripping crime thriller set in the fictional slum of Dreamland, The Power Above Us All is the first book in Ronaldo Vivo Jr.’s highly anticipated Dreamland Series. The story follows Dodong, a small-time criminal who enjoys a simple life with his best friend, Che. Dodong is framed for his best friend’s murder, sending him on a treacherous path filled with the brutal realities of urban poverty. An unforgettable read, Vivo successfully blends suspense and social commentary.
(Currently unavailable online—check local bookstores for updates.)
Why Filipino Young Adult Authors Matter
Filipino young adult authors publish stories that resonate with a global audience. Finding more than entertainment, readers find a sense of cultural understanding while showing societal problems. These authors’ distinct perspectives and storytelling also help promote reading literacy.
Gritty urban dramas, mystical adventures, and high-stakes thrillers create meaningful reading moments because of Filipino young adult authors.
This article may have been generated or enhanced using AI technology and has been reviewed for accuracy and readability.
