Big Bad Wolf Books’ Guide to Finding the Perfect Gift

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As the holiday season approaches and the joy of giving fills the air, it's time to think about gifts that are meaningful, thoughtful, and long-lasting. Big Bad Wolf Books believes that books are the ultimate timeless gift, one that holds infinite value for both the giver and the recipient.

1.    Meaningful and Thoughtful

A book is more than just a gift—it’s a reflection of thoughtfulness. Choosing a book that speaks to your loved one’s needs or interests makes your gift feel extra special. Do they need a good laugh? A little inspiration? Or maybe a thrilling adventure? A well-chosen book shows that you truly know and care about them and that you’ve put real thought into their gift, making it that much more special.

Furthermore, when you give someone a book, you’re not just giving them an object—you’re offering them an experience, a journey, and a chance to connect with the stories and lessons inside. Books allow you to share something meaningful, whether it’s a childhood favorite that shaped who you are or a powerful story that touched your heart. The joy of giving a book comes from knowing that you're giving more than a present—you’re giving the gift of imagination, knowledge, and adventure.

2. Timeless Eco-friendly Treasure

Books have a timeless quality, never losing their value or relevance. They aren’t disposable items; instead, they are treasures to collect, or share. Always ready to be picked up, revisited, and appreciated, they leave lasting imprints on our hearts and minds.

For both children and adults, books are gifts that become cherished treasures, offering knowledge, wisdom, and inspiration that last for years. Whether it’s an epic adventure, an inspiring biography, or a guide to personal growth., books open up endless possibilities. When you give a book, you give a gift that never stops giving.

3. Universal Appeal

With so many genres to choose from, books are a gift for all ages and tastes. From young readers to adults, books are a gift that spans generations. For kids, books spark imagination and teach valuable lessons. For young professionals, they can offer career inspiration, while adults can find wisdom and joy in books that help improve their lives and relationships. Imaginative stories for children, swoon-worthy romances for your besties, empowering self-help books for your go-getter friends—there’s a book for everyone on your list! Plus, Big Bad Wolf Books has over two million titles, so you’re bound to find the perfect match.

4. Big Bad Wolf’s Mission to Spread the Joy of Reading

Driven by a strong belief in the power of books, Big Bad Wolf Books is committed to spreading the joy of reading to as many people as possible. Beyond selling books, the organization aspires to make books accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or economic status.

The goal is to promote literacy and foster a love of reading in communities around the world. Big Bad Wolf Books seeks to create a world where books open doors to new opportunities, learning, and growth for all. By partnering with various organizations, Big Bad Wolf Books supports educational programs, donates books to schools and libraries, and empowers readers of all ages.

5. A Gift with Purpose: Books That Change Lives

Shopping at Big Bad Wolf Books means more than just buying a gift, it’s supporting a movement to make reading accessible for all. Every purchase helps further their mission to provide books to underprivileged communities, promote literacy, and encourage lifelong learning. It’s a gift that delights your loved ones while contributing to a larger cause: nurturing a new generation of readers.

6. Celebrate the Season of Giving with Big Bad Wolf Books

This Christmas, give gifts that last a lifetime. With Big Bad Wolf’s amazing book sales, finding the perfect gift has never been easier. Whether it’s a magical tale for a child, a motivational read for a friend, or a timeless classic for a family member, there’s a book waiting to make this holiday season truly special. Fill this season of giving with purpose, joy, and the magic of books.

This Christmas, don’t hesitate! Fill your totes with books that will bring joy, wonder, and lasting memories to everyone on your nice list.

Not sure what books to get your loved ones? Check out our list below!

Disney Storybook Collection ADVENT CALENDAR

The Wish by Nicholas Sparks

Badass Habits by Jen Sincero

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

The Nutcracker Illustrated by Margarida Esteves

Drop by the Big Bad Wolf’s Book Sale at the Veranza Activity Center, KCC Mall of GenSan, until October 26. Doors open at 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. As always, admission is free!

Happy gifting from Big Bad Wolf Books!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)

Hooked on Books: Big Bad Wolf Books Goes to GenSan for the First Time to Add More Readers to 1M New Readers Mission!

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GenSan, brace yourselves because Big Bad Wolf is hungry for some fish and is heading down to the tuna capital of the Philippines! Big Bad Wolf Books is coming to town for the very first time and will set up camp this October 11 to October 26 at the Veranza Activity Center, KCC Mall of GenSan, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.

Shortly following the successful Bacolod Book Sale in Visayas, Big Bad Wolf is heading down to Mindanao to complete its journey through the three major islands of the Philippines. It’s Big Bad Wolf Books’ first time to partner with Veranza Malls – one of the malls of Koronadal Commercial Corporation or KCC, and everyone’s surely excited to see Big Bad Wolf take over the place! Over two million books are in tow as Big Bad Wolf Books lines up unbelievable discounts and exciting deals. Partnered with Metrobank, credit cardholders get an exclusive 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least P3,000, so GenSan Wolfies, better watch out and stay tuned to Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages for updates!

Staying committed to its goal to welcome 1M readers into the pack, Big Bad Wolf strives to serve not only in the great metro, but across the islands as well. Be it Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao, Big Bad Wolf Books will always come through with delightful surprises that will for sure reel in the reads!

Get ready, GenSan, because it’s your turn to meet the Big Bad Wolf! Excited? Big Bad Wolf certainly is! Head on over to the Veranza Activity Center, KCC Mall of GenSan on October 11 to 26 from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. Parking is free as well!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)

No Crying Wolfie: Grab Books and Goods Before Big Bad Wolf Bids Bacolod “Bye-bye!”

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Calling all Wolfies of Bacolod! 

Big Bad Wolf is packing up and leaving town in a few days, so run now and get ready for one last feast at the Ground Floor, North Wing, SM City Bacolod until September 29, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Don’t miss the chance to fill up on amazing finds and great deals!

Still on our spread are unbelievable discounts and special promos that you just can’t pass up! Over two million titles are still at 95% off, and attendees who will participate in Wolfie’s Challenge of the Day get a chance to win a P500 Book Voucher. What’s more is that Metrobank credit cardholders can take advantage of a 3-month 0% installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth a minimum of P3,000, as well as a free 1-pc Chicken McDo meal for purchases of the same minimum amount. Returning Wolfies can still get a 5% discount on purchases when they bring their old Big Bad Wolf tote bag from last year. Plus, there’s a chance to win over P50,000 worth of furnishings from Swedish furnishing brand IKEA.

If you think that’s all, you’re wrong! Big Bad Wolf also has a special treat that is  exclusively for students and teachers! Registered Big Bad Wolf members who are part of the academe get 5% off on English books when they wear their uniform or present their school ID at the cashier. No minimum spend needed. Details of the promo will be released on Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages, so keep an eye out!

Adding to the excitement are limited edition tote bags that you can get only until the last day of the Bacolod book sale, September 29. Grab one for yourself, bring along a friend, and check out the other awesome merch too!  

Are you searching for something that will renew your zest for life? Perhaps a guide to finding “the one”? Or maybe a storybook that will take the young ones on an incredible adventure? All these and more are treasures waiting for you. But wait! While you’re at it, you can share your well-loved treasures with someone else too. Donate a book or two at the Book Sale! Books will be donated to the Department of Social Welfare and Development for a farther reach to different communities.

In the spirit of giving, let’s not forget that it’s “-ber” season already and the holidays are fast approaching! Kick off your holiday gift shopping at the Big Bad Wolf Bacolod Book Sale! With amazing deals and a wide selection, you’re sure to bring home a perfect book for you.  

No, we’re not crying “wolf” with our deals and discounts, but you’re a Wolfie who might just cry if you miss the last few days of the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale. Hurry now because the books and the goods are hot and ready for the taking. Explore genres, hunt down the titles on your wishlist, and make the most out of our deals before they’re all gobbled up!

What are you waiting for? Visit the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at the Ground Floor, North Wing, SM City Bacolod, happening until September 29. Doors open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Gather your pack and catch the Big Bad Wolf before it goes! We’ll see you there!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram) 

Book It Fast: Snag Good Finds Before Big Bad Wolf Wraps Last Manila Stop at Alabang!

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Attention, Wolfies from Alabang! Big Bad Wolf is leaving Filinvest, Alabang, soon! It’s the last Big Bad Wolf book sale in Manila, so don’t miss your chance to haul great titles and greater prices. Catch the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at Filinvest Tent, Alabang until September 1. Doors open daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 midnight, leaving guests with plenty of time to see what’s in store!

Incredible deals and discounts still await! Metrobank continues to offer credit cardholders an exclusive 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth a minimum of P3,000 at the book sale. That’s not all! Swedish furnishing brand IKEA will still be at the Filinvest Book Sale to treat attendees to a nice, comfy, and perfectly clean set-up perfect for resting, reading, or snacking! Plus, IKEA family members and BBW members can present their memberships at the register to get a free tote bag with their purchases.

Thriller? Romance? Sci-Fi? Whatever you’re in the mood for, it’s all at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale! Explore a collection of over two million books including these titles and more at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale:

Get a chance to meet and greet renowned Filipino author and motivational speaker, Bo Sanchez, as he delivers a short talk about decluttering and simplifying your life on September 1 at 3:00 PM. With a few days left of the Filinvest Book Sale, Big Bad Wolf guarantees that there are more treats up ahead! Follow Big Bad Wolf Philippines’ social media pages to be in the loop with the latest news and updates as more excitement awaits!

Manila bookworms, this is your last chance! Drop the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at Filinvest Tent, Alabang, happening until September 1, 2024. Doors open from 10:00 AM to 12:00 midnight. Grab a tote and your friends before Big Bad Wolf officially heads out of the city.

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)

New Chapter Begins: Big Bad Wolf Continues Hunt for 1M Readers at First-Ever Filinvest Tent Book Sale!

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Big news, Wolfies! Big Bad Wolf has officially landed at Alabang for the very first time! In pursuit of its mission to reach 1M new readers in 2024, Big Bad Wolf takes the world’s biggest book sale to the South at the Filinvest Tent in Alabang from August 23 to September 1, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 MN.

The opening of the book sale attracted a vibrant crowd of book enthusiasts and budding readers alike, all eager to explore the selection of titles available at budget-friendly prices. Metrobank returns, offering credit cardholders an exclusive 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least P3,000 at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale. Swedish furnishing brand IKEA is also heading to Alabang to give Wolfies from the South a special treat!

The Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale is part of Big Bad Wolf’s broader campaign to promote literacy and nurture a love for reading among people of all ages. The Filinvest book sale is the latest in a series of Big Bad Wolf book sales, dedicated to making books more accessible to more people across the country.

“We have always been passionate about igniting a love for reading and to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to quality books,” said Big Bad Wolf Books Co-founder Jacqueline Ng who was present at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale VIP Day.

Ng added, “It’s our first time in Alabang, and this marks another significant step toward our goal of bringing 1 million new readers into the fold. We believe that books have the power to change lives, and we are even more committed to making books available to as many people as possible.”

Big Bad Wolf Books Philippine Managing Partner Carol Chuaying echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Big Bad Wolf’s mission to promote literacy. “We believe literacy is the foundation of learning and personal growth,” said Chuaying. “At every book sale, we are not just selling books. We are opening doors to new opportunities, knowledge, and a brighter future for everyone. We are more than thrilled to be bringing the book sale to Alabang finally and to continue expanding our reach to more people.”

Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines Dato' ​​Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino and Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon, together with Filinvest Alabang, Inc. First Vice President Don-Don Mari S. Ubaldo; Filinvest Corporate City Association Inc. General Manager Engr. Kristine P. Triviño; Festival Supermall, Inc. Vice President and Head of Corporate Marketing Denise Rae O. Lagayan; Festival Supermall, Inc. Assistant Vice President and South Cluster General Manager Engr. Christian Wesley D. Villanueva; joined Ng and Chuaying to celebrate the opening of the Big Bad wolf Filinvest Book Sale.

Aside from great deals, discounts, and Big Bad Wolf’ wide collection of over two million books, guests can expect even more excitement as Big Bad Wolf cooks up more surprises for another grand book sale experience that wolfies won’t soon forget. Keep an eye on Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages to stay in the loop and find out more about the sneaky treats that the Wolf has in store.

South wolfies, ready to howl? Visit the Big Bad Wolf Book sale at Filinvest Tent, Alabang, open from August 23 to September 1. Doors open daily at 10:00 AM to 12:00 MN! Grab your pack and get ready for an adventure you definitely shouldn’t miss! We’ll see you there!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)

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About Big Bad Wolf Books

The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone.

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them.

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.

Ready to Join the Pack? The Wolf Hits Ayala Malls Glorietta!

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The Mission to Reach More Readers Continues with “Big Bad Wolf Unite on a Mission to 1 Million New Readers”

Guess who’s back, Manila Wolfies! The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, the world’s biggest book sale, makes a surprise second stop in Manila. This time, Big Bad Wolf is bringing “Big Bad Wolf Unite on a Mission to 1 Million New Readers” to Ayala Malls, Glorietta Activity Center this June 19 to 26!

After its successful run at Parqal in Aseana City last May, Big Big Bad Wolf continues its mission to reach 1 million new readers in Makati. The grandest book sale experience is hauling over two million books, featuring children’s literature, educational titles, and more, at budget-friendly prices. But that’s not all! Metrobank is joining the fun affair as its official bank partner – offering credit cardholders a special 3-month, 0% installment promo for single receipt purchases worth at least P3,000! Swedish furnishing brand IKEA is also set to return to delight visitors with a treat!

Big Bad Wolf has some exciting surprises in store to give Manila Wolfies a chance to be more involved with the Glorietta book sale. Little Wolfies aged 6 to 12 years old are invited to join the “Little Wolfies Crew.” The program offers learning opportunities for the little ones to learn how reading today can help lead tomorrow. Kids will also get hands-on experience as welcome howlers, police hunters, or sellers and check out wolfies! Keep an eye on Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages to find out more about “Little Wolfies Crew” plus thrilling activities and more fun announcements coming your way.

Mark your calendars! The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale is running June 19 to June 26, 2024, at Ayala Malls, Glorietta! If you’re a Metrobank client, you can get first dibs on the books on an exclusive pre-sale on June 19 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, before the sale becomes available to the public that day. For the rest of the run, doors open at 10:00 AM to 10:00. Get ready to fill up your totes, Wolfies! See you there!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)

Beebly, Globe treat readers with discounts on premium Books

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To make reading more accessible to everyone across the Philippines, Beebly, the first mobile e-library and e-bookstore for Fiipinos, is excited to announce a new partnership with Globe, the Philippines' leading digital solutions platform and top telecommunications company. The two companies are bringing exclusive discounts for all Globe Rewards customers who love to read.

Without using any rewards points, all Globe customers with an active New GlobeOne account may avail of a discount of up to 40% on premium titles available for purchase inside the app.

Beebly began with a dream of making learning more accessible to Filipinos. As the nation’s first digital library and bookstore, it hopes to encourage learning in a convenient and easy-to-use platform. Now, anyone with a smartphone can choose from a wide selection of educational and creative materials and learn on the go.

Once subscribed to Beebly, users will have immediate access to online study resources and popular eBooks, among others. The digital membership also grants access to other creative content and learning resources to develop various skills.

The platform is a game-changer, encouraging both the young and more senior to learn together at home.

“Our company harnessed our expertise in technology to create a platform where Filipinos, particularly young students, can easily access both educational and recreational reading materials. We have also developed a proprietary device that will soon allow students to read, review, and study their lessons via Beebly even without wifi or data,” shared Jackeline Chua, COO of Beebly.

“We hope through our app, we can significantly contribute to students’ learning and overall, encourage more young Filipinos to embrace the habit of reading,” added Jyotirmoy Saha, Beebly CEO.

Globe Chief Commercial Officer Issa Guevarra-Cabreira cited how Globe’s partnership with Beebly helps the company move forward in its goal of enabling inclusive education in the Philippines.

“We at Globe constantly think of ways to innovate to help improve the quality of education in the Philippines. We are proud to partner with Beebly in this initiative to provide a digital resource that makes books and other reading materials accessible to Filipino learners right in the palm of their hands, backed by reliable connectivity through our #1stWorldNetwork,” she said.

To date, Beebly has over 6,000 educational and recreational reading materials and has partnered with big publishing groups such as ABS-CBN Publishing, Precious Pages, and Summit Media.

Beebly is now available for download in the Philippines on all Android and iOS devices. 

Four fresh reads from ABS-CBN Publishing to be launched at the Manila Int’l Book Fair

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ABS-CBN Publishing, Inc. joins this year’s Manila International Book Fair with four exciting book launches, inspiring talks, and meet-and-greet sessions with Kapamilya authors at the biggest and longest running book fest in the country happening from September 12 to 16 at the SMX, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

With talks from Charo, Chef Tatung, Sue, and more

ABS-CBN’s publishing arm will formally launch Ferdie Cabiling’s “Run” book on Thursday (September 13) at 5:30 PM, Chef Myke Tatung’s recipe manual “Dishkarte” on Friday (September 14) at 12 NN, and Ana Theresa Cruzate’s horror story “Tell Me How You Want To Die” and Arlo Icabandi’s “Ang Halimaw Sa Baryo San Vicente” on Sunday (September 16) at 3 PM.

On Thursday (September 13), “365 Days of Feels” author Noreen Capili, or more popularly known as Noringai, shares her inspiration in Writing For The Telenovela seminar at 10 AM, while FQ Mom Rose Fausto conducts money talk in FQKwentuhan: Kamusta Na Ang Relasyon Niyo Sa Pera at 1:30 PM. Chef Tatung gives A Talk From Heart to Platter at 3:30 PM and spoken word artist Juan Miguel Severo will lead the Habang Wala Pa Sila discussion at 6 PM.

ABS-CBN chief content officer and ABS-CBN University president Charo Santos-Concio, author of “My Journey: The Story Of An Unexpected Leader,” shares her leadership learnings on Saturday (September 15) at 9 AM.

Readers can also meet and greet other Kapamilya authors on Saturday such as former beauty queen Abby Arenas of “88 Things Every Professional Should Know” at 11 AM, feng shui expert Master Hanz Cua who will conduct a tarot reading session at 1 PM, Binibining Mia, Charmaine Lasar, Ruth Mendoza, and Ana Cruzate at 1 PM, and YouTube sensation Lloyd Cadena, author of “Ex-Rated” at 3 PM.

On Sunday (September 16), Queen Elly will talk about her book “The Room” and “Don’t Tell” with actress Sue Ramirez at 5:30 PM.

Now on its 39th year, MIBF has become the most-awaited exhibition for all sorts of readers. It also hosts seminars, workshops, book signings, and other programs, such as the co-located event POP HUB: Comic Splash X Fandom Fest.

ABS-CBN Publishing, known for bestselling books that redefine genres, is a magazine and book publisher and a wholly owned subsidiary of ABS-CBN. It includes a variety of fiction and nonfiction books, with lifestyle, culinary, self-help, and biography reads in its portfolio. For more updates, follow ABS-CBN Publishing on Instagram @abscbnbooks or visit noink.abs-cbn.com.

Hiyas Books Help Kids to Be Helpful and Healthy

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Nowadays, the internet has a huge impact on children.  Nevertheless, parents still have other tools they can use in teaching values to their kids. A helpful tool is a good book that children will enjoy reading. But with so many children’s books available in the bookstores, it can be a challenge for parents to choose the right book. 

Hiyas, OMF Literature’s imprint for children’s books, assists parents by publishing books that help children form healthy habits and grow in Godly character. Plus, the books are fun to read! Hiyas offers a wide selection of books on different topics, ranging from books on values and health to Bible stories and activity books. 

A popular Hiyas series is the Dee the Bee series written by Joyce Piap-Go and illustrated by Maria Cristina Sison. The series helps kids develop positive values, stay healthy, and take care of the environment. In Bee Helpful, the seventh title in the series, Dee the Bee teaches young kids practical life skills they will need when they grow up, including lessons on how to be diligent, independent, and kind. The book also encourages adults to help kids nurture a caring and helping attitude by “deliberately creating opportunities for them to act compassionately.”

Dyaran! Ang Kambal na Hebigat! (Tada! The Heavyweight Twins!) by pediatrician and writer Luis “Tito Dok” Gatmaitan introduces the topic of weight management and good eating habits to children. The twenty-first title in the bestselling “Mga Kuwento ni Tito Dok (Stories of Uncle Doc)” series, Ang Kambal na Hebigat  not only addresses obesity in children but also gives tips on how parents can help their kids have proper weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The book features the fun illustrations of Mike Amante.

Dirty ’Yan, Judy Ann! (That’s Dirty, Judy Ann!), is the second title in “Oki Dok!”, the new health series by Luis “Tito Dok” P. Gatmaitan specially written for younger kids. With adorable illustrations by Cy Vendivil, Oki Dok! features fun and simple stories that address the health and hygiene concerns of preschoolers. In the book, Tito Dok explains the value of cleanliness through the endless—but loving—reminders of a mother obsessed with being clean.

Bee Helpful and Dirty ’Yan, Judy Ann! are available for P100.00 each, while Dyaran! Ang Kambal na Hebigat! sells for P120.00. All three titles are available at National Book Store, OMF Lit Bookshop, Passages, and other leading bookstores nationwide. The book can also be ordered online through passagesbooks.com.

Boy Abunda's book ‘It’s Like This’ Is Number 1

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In just a short period, Boy Abunda's book ‘It’s Like This’ is now ranked No. 1 for National Book Store October Bestsellers list for Non-Fiction: Philippine Publication. The book was formally launched last September at Shangri-La Mall.

It’s Like This, a good source of inspiration to the readers, contains life lessons, quotes, and selected essays that Abunda wrote for his Direct Line column in The Philippine Star.

Abunda’s life story is an open book. It’s Like This covers his humble beginnings in Borongan, Eastern Samar; his unparalleled love for Nanay Lising; his personal challenges; his journey as a television host, inspirational speaker, and talent manager, among others. 

His nuggets of wisdom are now preserved in the pages of his bestselling book. Some of them include: Gay love is equal to all forms of human love; Never allow other people’s opinions to define who you are. And your opinions must not define others as well; Believe that something great is to become of you. Believe and it will happen; Laugh and live with your successes and failures, knowing that all are fleeting; Enemies deserve respect. The same respect we give to the dead.

Read his 100+ Abundable thoughts and see what valuable lessons you can apply to your personal life.

It's Like This is a great gift for Christmas. Available in National Book Store and Powerbooks for only P275.

Pinoy kids need to develop reading habits (SM Supermalls' National Children’s Book Reading Day)

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These present days, most people especially students have no much time to read books with all the subjects they have to study in school, plus the distraction from social activities, like using cell phone for texting, internet, computer for assignments and projects, facebook, messaging, and games, TV, DVDs and other gadgets. 

Here some updates on SM Supermalls' National Children’s Book Reading Day

Filipino children need to develop a habit of reading to improve literacy, according to United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) during the celebration of SM Supermalls’ National Children’s Book Reading Day held simultaneously in all 58 SM malls nationwide, and seven in China. 

UNICEF emphasized on the importance of reading to children as much as possible, and at an early age. During the event, UNICEF ambassadors read books to select elementary school children per area. Daphne Osena-Paez and Lara Precious Quigaman were in SM Southmall, with Gary Valenciano taking the task in SM Megamall. Aside from UNICEF, the event was also in partnership with Vibal Publishing, National Bookstore and the Department of Education. The annual event is a project of SM Cares, SM Supermalls’ CSR arm, for children.

“Reading is very important, especially since we don’t have a reading culture in the Philippines. Our children are missing out on a lot of things,” said Michelle Parazo-Borromeo, head of UNICEF Private Fundraising and Partnerships. Boromeo cited studies that show young children who are read to everyday get their brains stimulated early for learning. Their learning ability, eventually, will be ahead of their peers.

Paez, who read to students of Almanza Elementary School in Las Pinas, believes that book reading in a mall is a good idea because it gives a chance to a wider audience to find out about the benefits of reading to children. “Having it in a fun place with a dynamic environment like SM, with celebrities reading to kids, gives the advocacy another dimension,” Paez said. UNICEF was able to show an animated visual aid to the kids through a large screen while the reading was taking place.

SM’s National Children’s Book Reading Day coincides with the 25thanniversary of the signing of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), of which the Philippines is a signatory. To commemorate this significant milestone in children’s rights, UNICEF reissued six of its published books that revolve around the themes on children’s rights, gender stereotypes, conflict resolution, among others.

When SM learned about the reissued books, the mall management suggested that UNICEF participate in their National Children’s Book Reading Day. It was iteration for the National Children’s Book Day, which was started more than 30 years ago by the Philippine Board on Books for Young People.

“What SM did is great because it’s more focused on reading,” Borromeo said. “We actually work a lot with SM because the company supports UNICEF’s advocacies like exclusive breastfeeding and proper nutrition.”

SM and UNICEF’s partnership began in 2008 under the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) program. It started with SM Drink for Two wherein every purchase of SM bottled water gives 25 centavos to UNICEF for the organization’s water sanitation facilities projects for schools and communities in the Philippines.

Read. Sip. Dine at the Book & Borders, a cozy nook for book lovers

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Charming and inviting, Book and Borders is the latest themed café open in Quezon City, catering to customers who have an appreciation for good books and equally good food and coffee. 

Here's a recommended cozy nook for book lovers. Putting together two of your favorite past times, reading and enjoying a cup of coffee, in just one place, newly-opened Book and Borders Cafe is set to become one of the metro’s more popular hangouts.

Book and Borders, located at 281 Tomas Morato, Quezon City, unlike other crowded cafes where people are more engaged in chit chat, has purposely turned their space into something that is more relaxed and quiet.

This is because the café encourages customers to go through their extensive selection of books, and take their time to hangout or read. In fact, the café also makes book stands available for its customers, to make reading their chosen book, much easier.

Complementing the nice ambiance and the library aspect of the café are delicious light fare and refreshing drinks. 

Aside from delicious muffins, breads, cupcakes, pies, tarts, squares, doughnuts, and cakes (Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake), Book and Borders also serves more filling menu options like pasta (Truffle Mushroom Pasta, Tuyo Pasta), sandwiches (Beef Pastrami Panini), even salad and breakfast options. For drinks, there’s coffee of course, in a variety of options, as well as refreshing smoothies for hot days. 

The café’s brand ambassadors, Karylle and Benjamin Alves are both book lovers, and represents what the café wants to promote very well; which is to encourage the habit of reading as well as indulging in one’s love for coffee.

Benjamin Alves

The two self-confessed book lovers were present at the café’s grand opening last July 28, wherein guests were treated to the café’s bestsellers and were given the chance to enjoy the selection of books that are available.

Karylle

Carrying the tagline, Read. Sip. Dine. Book & Borders is definitely a must-try not just for book lovers and coffee lovers but anyone who is looking for a nice place to hang out in the busy metro.

To learn more about Book & Borders, follow them on Instagram (@bookandborderscafe) and Twitter (@bookandborders). You may also call them on (0932) 871 7856.

With celebrity guests, here are some photos during the opening and blessing of Book & Borders.