Books on Martial Law for Children & Young Adults: A curated library guide

Highlighting stories that preserve memory, foster critical thinking, and honor human rights.

Early Readers (5–10 years old)

• Sayaw ng mga Ilaw – Cheeno Marlo Sayuno, illus. Aaron Asis
  A girl longs to learn a traditional dance as her family faces absence and loss under Martial Law.

• Isang Harding Papel – Augie Rivera, illus. Rommel Joson
  A child’s paper garden becomes a symbol of hope while her mother is imprisoned.

• Si Jhun-Jhun, Noong Bago Ideklara ang Batas Militar – Augie Rivera, illus. Brian Vallesteros
  A bilingual story showing how Martial Law disrupted ordinary childhood.

• Ito Ang Diktadura – Equipo Plantel, illus. Mikel Casal
  A simple yet powerful introduction to dictatorship, translated into Filipino.

Middle Readers (11–14 years old)

• Salingkit: A 1986 Diary – Cyan Abad-Jugo
  A diary of friendship and awakening during the People Power Revolution.

• Martial Law Babies – Arnold Arre
  A graphic novel capturing the humor, nostalgia, and struggles of a generation raised during Martial Law.

Older Teens & Young Adults (15+ years old)

• Dekada ’70 – Lualhati Bautista
  A family’s story of awakening and resistance during the Marcos dictatorship.

• Desaparesidos – Lualhati Bautista
  A former activist confronts the trauma of the disappeared and the silence of history.

• 12:01 – Russell Molina, illus. Kajo Baldisimo
  A haunting graphic novel about curfew, disappearance, and the shadows of authoritarian rule.

• The Gun Dealer’s Daughter – Gina Apostol
  A privileged daughter is drawn into activism, memory, and guilt during Martial Law.