October is Filipino American History Month! Let’s recognize the importance of literature in preserving and honouring the Filipino American experience both past and present.
Here are some remarkable books that delve into the rich history and diverse narratives of Filipino Americans:
Journey for Justice: The Life of Larry Itliong by Dawn Mabalon and Gayle Romasanta
This book tells the inspiring story of Larry Itliong. Itliong was a key figure in the Filipino American labor movement and the fight for workers’ rights. This the first book about Larry Itliong, and is also the first nonfiction Filipino American history picture book for children.
Cora Cooks Pancit by Dorina Gilmore
Through the eyes of Cora, this children’s book explores Filipino culture and the significance of food and tradition. Cora Cooks Pancit is a good companion book with Journey for Justice, as Cora’s grandfather cooked for Filipino farm workers. He includes his pancit recipe in the back!
America is in the Heart by Carlos Bulosan
A classic in Filipino American literature, this autobiographical novel portrays the struggles and dreams of Carlos Bulosan as he navigates life as a Filipino immigrant in America. Bulosan’s account of labour exploitation, his resistance and journey for survival help show how Filipino communities established themselves in America.
Bulosan shows an intimate account of the crippling poverty in the Philippines that brought him to America. And also documents his account of being confronted by white supremacy, discrimination and violence. Yet it is in this new life he finds his soul and voice. Not just a book to understand the Filipinx experience, but also American history. And, often history that is often untold.
America is Not the Heart by Elaine Castillo
This powerful novel follows the story of Hero, a former revolutionary from the Philippines, as she seeks refuge and builds a new life in the United States….
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