What Filipino books will my teen like and understand?
by The Learning Library Staff
It’s difficult enough to build a reading habit in English, moreso in Filipino or any second language. In today’s world filled with more stimulating media, reading is needed now more than ever to harness creativity and improve cognitive skills.
It’s important for children and older kids to read not only to master a language, but also to process information in a comprehensive and organized way. Stories also help kids be more familiar with their emotions, and understand how others who are different from them think and feel.
In our previous article, we recommended short stories to help young kids become familiar with Filipino. But for older kids and teens, stories that are a bit longer with more complex sentences are recommended. These have to be stories that are challenging enough for them to learn new grammar and vocabulary, but also entertaining enough that they are able to finish it.
This is a habit we strive to do here at The Learning Library, where we find the best stories to help teens master Filipino. That’s why we created a list of timeless and enjoyable Filipino books that our teens can enjoy and learn from.
Isang Harding Papel by Augie Rivera
It’s the time of Martial Law, and Jenny’s room is filled with paper flowers. Every day she adds a new one to her “garden”, and every day Jenny also waits and wonders when she can see her mom again.
Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon by Edgar Calabia Samar
Janus is the lone survivor of a chilling TALA Online Game Tournament in his town. When mysterious deaths plague gaming hubs nationwide, Janus begins unraveling the secrets of the game that leads him to go on thrilling and dangerous quests.
Anina ng mga Alon by Eugen Evasco
Meet Anina, a Badjao girl raised by the sea. Amidst the challenges of poverty and violence, Anina embarks on a journey to learn more about herself, her Badjao culture, and the stories of other Badjaos in her community.
Tuwing Sabado by Russel Molina
Saturday is the best day of the week because that’s the only time a young boy gets to see his dad who is in prison. Despite their conditions, his dad is nothing but a hero who teaches him fun and important things every Saturday.
Ang Lihim ni Lea by Augie Rivera
When Lea moves into a new home with her dad, she discovers she can pass through walls! But Lea’s newfound powers may not be as exciting as she throught.
Detective Boys of Masangkay (Ang Mangkukulam) by Bernalyn Hapin Sastrillo
Barangay Masangkay has been experiencing many mysteries lately. Who better to solve them than three boys that love to play detective?
Ang Hari ng Komyut: Ang Pagkilala by Lizette Daluz
Join a young man nicknamed “Hari ng Komyut” on his everyday encounters through Manila traffic. Riding in crowded jeepneys, and waiting in long lines at the station are just some of his daily experiences.
Anak ng Tinapay (The Bread Baker's Daughter) by Jacqueline Franquelli
Nina just can’t wait to grow up. But when she goes with her father to their bakery, Nina discovers there’s magic in taking one’s time and being patient. It seems there’s more to learn in a bakery than just baking breads.
Si Dru at ang Kuwento ng Limang Kaharian by Clara Ng
Dru is feisty young girl that loves to explore, that is until she finds herself lost in a world with five magical realms. Can Dru find her way back home?
Operation Taka by Xi Zuq
Myo and Andro are super busy planning their class Christmas party. Amidst making party decorations, and shopping for gifts, will these best friends remember to buy gifts for each other?
Reading these books with your teen may also be a good bonding activity for you.
After all, stories are meant to be shared.
If you think your teen needs more help in mastering Filipino, our WIKA’Y GALING program develops their vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension, and writing skills. Through the patient guidance of our experienced teachers, teens are not only exposed to great stories, but also learn how to express their opinions on it in Filipino!
We offer free trial classes here at The Learning Library! Sign up by sending an email to inquiries@learninglibraries.com or by messaging The Learning Library on Facebook.
