Welcome to Blissful Bloom Recommended Reads, our regular feature where we share books worth discovering for ourselves and our little ones.

As parents, we know that reading with our children is about more than learning new words. It’s an opportunity to nurture their imagination, introduce new ideas, explore meaningful conversations, and create memories together.

For this edition, we’re turning our attention to Filipino children’s literature!

The 9th National Children’s Book Awards, organized by the Philippine Board on Books for Young People (PBBY), offers a wonderful starting point for parents looking to discover locally published books for young readers. Its selection includes titles recognized as Best Reads, as well as books featured in the Kids’ Choice category.

Whether you’re looking for a new bedtime story, a thoughtful gift, or an addition to your child’s growing bookshelf, here are some titles to explore.

Source: Philippine Board on Books for Young People

Books to Discover

1. Ang Munting Rinosero

By Candy Gourlay | Illustrated by Jamie Bauza | Ilaw ng Tahanan

For families who enjoy stories about animals, friendship, and the natural world, Ang Munting Rinosero is a title worth exploring. Its story follows Maya’s encounter with a lost baby rhinoceros, opening up opportunities to talk about kindness, caring for others, and protecting the environment.

Why add it to your reading list? It offers a starting point for conversations about compassion, nature, and the importance of community.

2. Ode to a Young Reader

By Gigo Alampay | CANVAS

There’s something special about a book that celebrates reading itself. Ode to a Young Reader pays tribute to the possibilities that books open up for children, combining poetry and art to celebrate imagination and discovery.

Why add it to your reading list? It’s a lovely title to consider when you’re nurturing a child’s curiosity and building a home library that celebrates the joy of reading.

3. Sayaw ng mga Ilaw

By Cheeno Marlo Sayuno | Illustrated by Aaron Asis | Ilaw ng Tahanan

Children’s literature can also help families explore history and emotions. Sayaw ng mga Ilaw touches on loss, courage, and hope through a child’s perspective, offering an opportunity to approach difficult subjects with sensitivity.

Why add it to your reading list? Parents looking to introduce age-appropriate conversations about Philippine history may find this title worth exploring together with older children.

4. ChatGPT and the Adventure in the A.I. Wonderland

By Ai Lopez and EJ Uy | Johnny and Hansel Publications

Our children are growing up in a world where artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools are increasingly part of everyday life. This title offers an opportunity to explore children’s literature that engages with the subject of AI.

Why add it to your reading list? It may appeal to curious young readers interested in technology and imaginative adventures, while giving parents an opening to talk about the digital world.

5. I Am Protected! (Ako ay Ligtas!)

By Michellan Sarile-Alagao and Kim Alexis Santiago | Lampara Publishing House

Teaching children about safety is an important part of growing up. Books can help parents begin these conversations in a more approachable way, especially when children are still learning how to understand and communicate their boundaries.

Why add it to your reading list? Consider this title if you’re building a home library that supports conversations about children’s safety and well-being.

6. Excuse Me Po!

By Cheeno Marlo Sayuno and Cyrill Acuña | Adarna House

Everyday interactions can be meaningful learning opportunities for little ones. Excuse Me Po! is a title to explore if you’re looking for Filipino children’s books connected to familiar expressions and social situations.

Why add it to your reading list? It may be a useful addition for families who enjoy incorporating language and everyday experiences into reading time.

7. Kutkot Kulangot

By Cheeno Marlo Sayuno and Isa Natividad-Somera | Adarna House

Sometimes, the best way to encourage children to read is to let them enjoy a little silliness! Kutkot Kulangot is worth checking out for families whose little readers appreciate playful humour.

Why add it to your reading list? Funny books can make reading feel less like a lesson and more like something children look forward to.

8. Linis Tayo!

By Cheeno Marlo Sayuno and Cyrill Acuña | Adarna House

Every parent knows that getting children to tidy up can take a little creativity. Linis Tayo! is another title to explore when building a collection of books connected to everyday routines.

Why add it to your reading list? You can pair storytime with a simple activity, such as organising toys or tidying your child’s reading corner.

9. Life

By Rob Cham | Adarna House

If you’re looking to discover more contemporary Filipino children’s literature, Life is another title featured in the Kids’ Choice selection to look into.

Why add it to your reading list? It gives families another opportunity to explore locally published work and discover stories beyond the familiar titles on bookstore shelves.

10. Like the Old Summer Days (Gaya Noong mga Araw ng Bakasyon)

By Mark Norman Boquiren and Rhea Kristine U. Elnar | Johnny and Hansel Publications

Childhood memories often become some of our favourite stories to share with our own children. This title may catch the attention of families who enjoy reminiscing about summer holidays and the experiences that make childhood special.

Why add it to your reading list? Use it as an opportunity to share your own childhood memories and ask your little ones about their favourite family adventures.

11. Robot Versus Dinosaur

By Jomike Tejido | Ilaw ng Tahanan

Robots and dinosaurs are perennial favourites among many young readers. Robot Versus Dinosaur may be worth checking out if your child enjoys imaginative worlds, fascinating creatures, and playful showdowns.

Why add it to your reading list? Following a child’s interests is one way to encourage enthusiasm for books, especially when they’re still developing their reading habits.

A Little Reading Inspiration for Parents

You don’t need an elaborate reading routine to make books part of family life. A few minutes before bedtime, a weekend visit to the bookstore, or a story shared during a quiet afternoon can become a meaningful family ritual.

When choosing books, consider your child’s interests, age, and developmental stage. Read together when a story introduces unfamiliar ideas, and give your little one time to ask questions, look at illustrations, and share their thoughts.

And whenever possible, let them choose what they want to read next!

Discover More Filipino Children’s Books

Our Recommended Reads feature is all about helping families discover books that can inspire curiosity, encourage learning, and make room for meaningful moments together.

Keep an eye on Blissful Bloom’s reading recommendations for parents and children. There’s always another story worth discovering.