The 3rd Filipino Readers Conference @ Ateneo de Manila University

The 3rd Filipino ReaderCon was held last Saturday, December 9 at the Ateneo de Manila University, Rizal Library. The event’s theme was “What Do Readers Want?”  That brings us together all in the name for love for books. I was just invited by a friend who’s really in love with reading, and I am thankful to her. I do not actually read a lot; I mean I do not have enough time for books to read but this conference helped me be back on track for reading. I was just amazed because the people around were filled with joy and love as I was about to enter the hall. There were a lot of stalls, souvenir items and book recommendations. The publishers entertained questions and gave us a little background on the books they offer. I’m glad how persuasive they are; because their smiles show that they welcome us. My heart filled with joy as I look closer to every corner of the exhibit. We have learned a lot and I know FRCA will be merrier in the years to come.

with Mr. Eros Atalia, Writer

I regret the moment that I did not bring my dslr with me. L There were too many things that I really wanted to capture that day. (Okay, move on :3) Anyways, I was sleepless also. I wasn’t being able to finish all the activities because I’m too dizzy already and we need to be at the rehearsal due to our international competition. Fortunately, my mind could still manage to absorb everything that was being told.

According to Victoria Velasco of Fullybooked, Readers like to share and also emotional. Readers’ needs entertainment value and good quality that made them curious what to read next. Books touch us emotionally that made her say that “Filipino is very emotional.” I got something from her during the forum that asked: “Can books be moved by the cover?” then she answered, “All the books that are famous are good in their own way.” – (What attracts the reader? Is it author or title driven?)

Mr. Jun Matias of Precious Pages said that “Romance is the fastest mover” – was 60 to 70% of readers among all the categories. He was a fond of Traditional Comics. As per research, Manga is the best selling nowadays. By the way, Precious Pages is a Filipino Bookstore J

The two of them was asked about book trends, marketing and so on and they made me realize this one: “Trends? It’s unpredictable. When you are a publisher, ‘Huwag iisipin kung bebenta ito’… Follow your heart.”

And to Mr. Eros Atalia who’s very simple yet powerful writer (for me HAHAHA) =)))

What I like most about his writings is that he seems to be so humorous yet he never ever let a lesser value. Simple yet it strikes the heart. Challenging, to the point where a reader is going to think beyond every line. Based from him, he is a fan of Marxist Literature.

Cool Stairs at the Rizal Library with Miss Angel Santos

“Minsan mas effective yung hindi mo alam na ginagago ka na.”

-      He is pertaining to his humorous writings J (it made sense right? actually, when I was reading his books, I could always relate myself unlike any other books where I’ll always in need of dictionary use. XD Because he uses simple and “uso” na words)

“Gumawa ka ng sariling identity. FIND YOUR VOICE.”          

-      I think this would mean that we have to be different and be our own in our little ways. As per the others, Only YOU can be You. J

“Huwag mo akong susundan, paano kung maligaw ako? Edi naligaw tayo lahat.”

“Writing is a practice.”


Also, I enjoyed the food. :D (Yeah, since its inclusive)

ReaderCon's Souvenir Items

My toughest decision ever goes to: Pinoy Reads Pinoy Books HAHAHA :D
I find it hard to decide where I would be among the four book discussions, namely: FLIPS FLIPPING PAGES on Seasons of Mist by Neil Gaiman, GOODREADS – THE FILIPINO GROUP on Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, PINOY READ PINOY BOOKS on Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog by Edgar Calabria Samar and RMM BOOKED UP on Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card.

Since I chose to be with the PRPB, we discussed Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog. According to the members of the Book Club, “Sino pa nga ba ang tatangkilik ng sariling atin kundi tayo rin.” – which is true. They had a monologue to give clues on how the story goes.

These are some of the lines of Walong Diwata ng Pagkahulog that stuck in my head:

“Kung nawawala, hinahanap.”

“Kahit wala yung isa, patuloy pa rin. Kahit imposible, maging Masaya na rin.”

“Huwag nating pag-usapan ang tungkol sa pamamaalam…”

“Umiibig. Umaalis. Naiiwan.”

“Tanong sa sarili na hinahanapan ng kasagutan…”

“Hindi mapagkakatiwalaan ang salita.”

Recycled Bottle cap Badge. Love it! 

Also, they encourage us to be part (And yeah, they seemed so fun to be with). They said that whenever they read a book, there was a portion there where the setting is being mentioned. Out of curiosity, they will set a date to go with that place (whatever place is in the book) – Cool! Ohh I love adventures. They’re having book discussions once a month! And I hope I could attend.

“the Study of translation is a Traitor.”

-      I got this from an audience who is an Atenean Professor since the discussion was also referring to tagalized books.

Naaaah! This blog is over. Well, I just shared what I’ve got from the conference. I hope you have learned at least also. Thank you for reading, folks! Keep it posted. XD

#BookFair #NBDB #BookRecommendations #authorsASreaders #ErosAtalia #KateEvangelista #MinaEsguerra #PopularAuthors #BookDiscussions