Subject
Philippines -- Fiction Books
Best books
Rounsevelle Wildman
Tales of the Malayan Coast From Penang to the Philippines
"Tales of the Malayan Coast" by Rounsevelle Wildman is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The author draws upon his experiences as a U.S. consul in the region, depicting the vibrant cultures and adventures of the Malayan coast, as well as the lives of both the local inhabitants and the expatriates. The stories span various themes of adventure and exploration, often featuring characters such as Baboo, a mischievous young boy whose antics provide insight into the unique lifestyle of the area. At the start of the work, the narrative introduces Baboo, the four-year-old son of Aboo Din, who goes on an unexpected adventure involving a sleeping tiger in the dense jungle near his home. The story unfolds with the panic that ensues when Baboo goes missing, leading his father and others to search for him. Filled with a blend of humor and tension, the opening section highlights Baboo's resilience and daring spirit as he navigates the jungle, ultimately revealing a whimsical twist regarding his encounter with the tiger. The stories, rooted in the rich tapestry of Malayan life, promise a captivating mix of wonder, danger, and cultural insights, appealing to readers interested in adventurous tales set in exotic locales.
Mabel Wood Martin
The Green God's Pavilion: A novel of the Philippines
"The Green God's Pavilion: A novel of the Philippines" by Mabel Wood Martin is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on a young woman named Julie who arrives in the Philippines, filled with excitement and a sense of adventure, yet also feelings of isolation and trepidation about her new life. As she explores the vibrant and tumultuous world around her, she grapples with her identity and ambitions amidst the backdrop of colonialism, cultural mingling, and societal expectations. At the start of the narrative, Julie disembarks from a vessel looking out at the captivating city of Manila, awash in wonder but also burdened by her past and uncertain future. She has come to the Philippines to teach, hoping to escape her narrowly defined existence under her uncle's roof. Through her interactions with locals and expatriates, we see Julie confront the duality of her aspirations—her desire to embrace her independence clashing with the harsh realities of the new world she has entered. Her journey is deepened by encounters with characters like the Calixters, who offer her temporary refuge, and the enigmatic Isabel, who represents the allure and danger of the East. As Julie begins her adventure, a sense of impending challenges looms with hints of unrest and cultural chasms in her colonial setting.
Mary H. (Mary Helen) Fee
The Locusts' Years
"The Locusts' Years" by Mary H. Fee is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the characters of Judge Alexander Barton, Miss Charlotte Ponsonby, and Martin Collingwood, exploring themes of civilization, social class, and the complexities of human relationships. As the characters navigate their lives, the nuances of societal expectations and personal struggles come to light, particularly through the lens of Miss Ponsonby’s interactions with both men. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Judge Barton, who reflects on the disconnect between refined individuals and the harsh realities of society, particularly regarding Miss Ponsonby, a nurse struggling with her own identity and struggles within a rigid social framework. Her reserved demeanor captivates Collingwood, a young man recovering in the same hospital, who becomes infatuated with her over a shared sense of displacement and longing for connection. The opening chapters set the stage for a romantic tension filled with societal critique, as Miss Ponsonby's quiet strength clashes with the expectations placed upon her by her class and circumstances, leading readers to ponder the cost of personal happiness versus societal acceptance.
Stanley Portal Hyatt
The Law of the Bolo
"The Law of the Bolo" by Stanley Portal Hyatt is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the Philippines during a time of political change and reflects the tension between colonization and indigenous culture. Central to the narrative is a character named Felizardo, a once-ordinary villager who becomes an outlaw known for his fierce loyalty and connection to the land. The opening of the book introduces the concept of the "Law of the Bolo," a simple yet brutal code signifying that the spoils of life go to those with the means to claim them. We are introduced to Felizardo, a peasant from a small village, whose life drastically changes upon meeting Dolores Lasara, the daughter of a local official. As he takes a significant turn towards becoming an outlaw, Felizardo grapples with love, violence, and loyalty amidst the intricate dynamics of colonial rule. The narrative establishes the foundation of Felizardo's character, foreshadowing his transformation into a leader within the tumultuous landscape of his homeland.
Rowland Thomas
The Little Gods: A Masque of the Far East
"The Little Gods: A Masque of the Far East" by Rowland Thomas is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of life, culture, and human experiences through a narrative that juxtaposes Eastern and Western perspectives. It introduces readers to a variety of characters, primarily focusing on the themes of struggle, identity, and the search for meaning in a world perceived as a game played by divine or supernatural forces. The opening of the story establishes a reflective and contemplative atmosphere as the narrator grapples with a lack of inspiration while observing the mundane aspects of life around him. Suddenly, he finds himself transported back to a vibrant Eastern city filled with colorful characters and stimulating experiences, capturing the essence of youth and vitality. He encounters an old priest who initiates a discussion about the concept of "Little Gods" that play games with human lives, leading him to ponder the paradoxes of existence. Individual characters begin to emerge, such as Fagan, a central figure whose story unfolds amidst cultural tensions and a personal quest for identity, drawn against a backdrop of military life and societal expectations. This sets the stage for a narrative rich in cultural exploration and philosophical inquiry.
Charles Goff Thomson
Terry A Tale of the Hill People
"Terry" by Charles Goff Thomson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character of Terry, a young man who has recently returned to his small New England town after studying at Princeton. In the opening chapters, Terry is depicted as a somewhat restless and idealistic individual struggling to find his place in a community that holds rigid values. The narrative delves into his personal conflicts, particularly concerning his relationships with his family and his love interest, Deane, as well as the societal expectations weighing on him. The beginning of "Terry" introduces us to the protagonist's hunting expedition, where he successfully captures a fox, an act that subsequently draws scorn from the conservative townsfolk during a church service. This event highlights the divide between Terry's free spirit and the strict moral code of his community. As he returns home, the reader is introduced to his complexities, including his longing for deeper meaning beyond the confines of Crampville, and the impact of his decisions on his relationships with his sister Susan and the townspeople. Additionally, the opening sets the stage for impending changes in Terry's life as he grapples with his feelings for Deane and considers an opportunity that could take him far from his familiar surroundings.
Charles King
Found in the Philippines: The Story of a Woman's Letters
"Found in the Philippines: The Story of a Woman's Letters" by Captain Charles King is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative is set during the Spanish-American War, primarily focusing on the experiences of young soldiers stationed at the Presidio in San Francisco as they prepare to embark for the Philippines. The story weaves together themes of adventure, personal ambition, and the blossoming of romantic relationships amid the backdrop of military life and duty. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the tense anticipation at division headquarters as soldiers await orders for deployment. In this atmosphere, we meet Lieutenant Billy Gray, a young and charismatic officer whose past at college and personal aspirations unfold against the excitement of impending military action. The narrative highlights his interactions with fellow officers and the arrival of women from the East seeking a runaway, which introduces potential romantic interests that complicate the machinations of duty and desire. As preparations for a review take place, the story sets the stage for both the military challenges and the personal journeys of the characters involved.
Recently surfaced classics