Filipino authors successfully launch new children’s book

Rappler.com

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Filipino authors successfully launch new children’s book
The self-published book Jamie's Best Friend aims to inspire both readers and other authors

MANILA, Philippines – On June 28, 2015, 3PM, Powerbooks in Greenbelt 4 will celebrate the release of Jamie’s Best Friend, the new children’s book by New York-based Filipino author, Paolo Bitanga and Manila-based illustrator, Winnie Wong.

After a successful launch last month at the Blue Leaf Pavilion, the book generated notable buzz in Manila’s international youth community. The event saw readings and a range of creative games that the young guests enjoyed, thanks to the vast and well-equipped space sponsored by Blue Leaf.

The book is geared towards pre-schoolers and children who might be experiencing social anxiety. In this heartfelt story featuring imaginary creatures, Jamie must find a new friend after saying goodbye to his imaginary best friend, Rocco. The narrative reminds all of us to be open to meeting new people, while being grateful for those already a part of our lives.

Illustrator Winnie Wong with participants at the book launch.

The June 28th retail release in Powerbooks will host a live reading and book signing by co-creator, Winnie Wong. As self-published artists, Wong and Bitanga have signed a consignment deal with Powerbooks to distribute the book’s first edition in select branches around Manila. 

Later in the year, the duo will expand to the international market, listing Jamie’s Best Friend on online sales platforms. The book is currently available for online purchase and shipping within the Philippines via penelopepop.com, Wong’s proprietary artist website.

As self-publishing grows more popular in the US and Europe, the two young creators behind Jamie’s Best Friend hope to inspire entrepreneurship among homegrown talents.  Rappler.com

Paolo Bitanga is a Filipino filmmaker (writer/director). He is the CEO and founder of 8-Player Pictures, a full-service media production team in New York. Follow him on Instagram at @pawifiction.

Winnie Wong is the illustrator of Jamie’s Best Friend. Her illustrations in the book were a finalist entry for the annual Adobe Design Achievement awards in 2014. Follow her on Instagram at @penelopepopart. 

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