Sneak Peek: 2025 New Book Projects

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zarah Gagatiga (@zarahgeeh)

Why YA?

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zarah Gagatiga (@zarahgeeh)

Kuwentong Bangtan: BTS World Season 2

In 2019, Netmarble released BTS World, an interactive story-based mobile game that allowed players to journey with BTS members in their adventures as Kpop idols. I was not ARMY back then, but vet ARMYs I know in online communities tell of stories of how successful it was because they can “accompany” BTS in missions and goals that even players can assume the role of managers, building a close relationship with the game persona of BTS.

As a researcher and librarian, this piqued my interest to further study and read up on fandom culture, fan behavior and their engagement in virtual worlds. And yes, part of this curiousity would mean downloading the app and playing the game.

The good news is, BTS World Season 2 was officially launched today at 10AM KST/9AM PHT.

As ARMY, I find the release of BTS World Season 2 as relevant in this era of BTS’ military service because it connects die-hard fans like me to BTS, albeit virtual. At a time when we are waiting for all 7 members to be back from military duties, playing BTS World Season 2 fills the gap. Apart from streaming and voting online, playing this online game fosters community building among ARMY, besides strengthening relationships between fanbases in the fandom. It becomes a shared experience.

This type of engagement speaks to fan loyalty and the growing gift economy within fandom culture, where interactive experiences and emotional bonds become investments and yes, currency.

BTS World is on X (BTSW2_official) and accross platforms it has contents for fans to consume and enjoy - vidoes, moving posters, retro photos of BTS and music. 

BTS World on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2SVMQ9dcWrlZj4vmKBPiE6?si=5nrknqelSAKUT7RKn-_Qvw

3rd Sunday of Advent: The Candle of Joy

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zarah Gagatiga (@the.readingarmy)

Ahjumma Reviews: When the Phone Rings: Focus on Yoo Yeon Seok

I first saw Yoo Yeon Seok as the brutally ireverent samurai Gu Dong-mae in Mr. Sunshine. Though I favored the poet of the three male leads in the Kdrama, I was smitten at YYS’ acting and good looks. I followed and watched his shows available in streaming channels I’m subscribed in.

He was charming Chilbong in Reply 1994. He was the deserving first son of Doldam Hospital. He was the perfect son, friend and excellent drummer of the Lacking Five in Hospital Playlist. There are more of YYS’ works I have yet to see and admire, I’m sure.

Watching him play the tsundere in “When the Phone Rings” is a brilliant turn as he brings another complex character to life. He unfolds his tough facade in Episode 5 and became unhinged in Episode 6. From guarded intensity to raw vulnerability, YYS is magnificent to behold.

Next weekend can’t come any sooner!

It's Fun to Be Me!

Ang aming aklat, “Masaya Ang Maging Ako”, ay mayroon ng edisyon sa English — “It’s Fun to Be Me!” Maraming salamat sa Room to Read at sa Lampara Books Lampara House sa pagdami ng mga bersyon ng aklat upang mas marami pang bata ang makapagbasa at mabigyang saya nito. Noong nakaraang taon, na-translate naman sa Hindi ang aming aklat. Kamakailan naman, ang Braille edition ay nai-launch sa Quezon City Public Library sa pakikipag-partner nila sa National Library of the Philippines.

Para sa iyo ito, Tere, at sa mga batang may likas na katangiang kakaiba, katawatawa at kagulatgulat. Hindi man kayo maintindihan ng karamihan, may mga aklat na magpapaalala na ang pagiging ikaw ay sapat at kahanga-hanga.

Ang “It’s Fun to Be Me!” ay alay namin sa lahat ng batang nangangarap na tanggapin ang kanilang sarili at makita ang ganda ng kanilang kakaibahan. Salamat sa patuloy na pagtangkilik at suporta sa mga kuwentong tulad nito. Sana’y patuloy nating maiparamdam sa mga bata na ang bawat isa sa kanila ay mahalaga, natatangi, at karapat-dapat mahalin — higit sa lahat, ng sarili nila.

Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat na naging bahagi ng paglalakbay na ito.

* Ang edisyong ito ay hindi for sale. Ang Room to Read India Trust ay ang ahensyang magdo-donate ng kopya sa mga lugar na bibihira na makarating ang ganitong uri ng mga aklat sa mga batang mambabasa.

*************************************************************************

Our book, "Masaya Ang Maging Ako" now has an English edition — "It's Fun to Be Me!" Heartfelt thanks to Room to Read and Lampara Books Lampara House for creating more versions of this book so it can bring joy to even more children. Last year, our book was translated into Hindi. Recently, the Braille edition was launched at the Quezon City Public Library in partnership with the National Library of the Philippines.

This is dedicated to you, Tere, and to all children with unique, amusing, and extraordinary traits. Even if not everyone understands you, there are books to remind you that being yourself is enough and truly wonderful.

 "It's Fun to Be Me!" is our gift to all children dreaming of accepting themselves and discovering the beauty in their uniqueness. Thank you for your continued support and belief in stories like this. May we continue to remind children that each of them is valuable, special, and worthy of love — most importantly, self-love.

 A heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey.

This edition is not for sale. Room to Read India Trust will donate copies to places where books like this rarely reach young readers.

Poetry: on a leaf lush and green

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zarah Gagatiga (@the.readingarmy)

Book Review: Ferdinand Magellan by Candy Gourlay

Ferdinand Magellan (First Name Series, 2020) by Candy Gourlay challenges readers to revisit and rethink historical narratives. By turning centuries-old histories inside out, and exploring and presenting different perspectives, the book underscores the importance of cognitive stamina in uncovering and engaging with the consequential truths of history. 

Historical facts, events, or interpretations have significant, lasting impacts on societies, cultures, and the way we understand the world. These truths shape our collective memory, influence current decisions, and affect how future generations perceive the past. For example, the recognition of colonialism as a major driver of historical inequality is a consequential truth because it affects modern life, discussions on reparations and the systemic injustices still present in this age. 

This book, with comics-like illustrations, is not light weight. I am in awe of @candygourlay ‘s courage. #bookstagram #history #biography

Book Donation at SM Aura Book Nook

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zarah Gagatiga (@zarahgeeh)

2nd Sunday of Advent: The Candle of Peace

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zarah Gagatiga (@the.readingarmy)

Kuwentong Bangtan: Kim Namjoon and the White Porcelain Vase

Apologies and rectifications are in order.

A few days ago, last Friday, Dec.6 to be exact, I posted on my FB wall and Threads a screenshot of Joon’s profile photo on IG with my notes on kintsugi. It earned some engagements including corrections. And yes, I admit my mistake in the thread.

What I appreciated the most was the manner in which I received the correction. It was decent and kind.

How refreshing.

Following links and using image search, I have gained a deeper understanding of the vase in question as well as the online behavior of friends and fans, and my own, too. No one is exempt. No one is beyond learning and growth.

And now, for the vase.

As pointed out, the golden brown design is a rope; an underglaze on porcelain. Ah, white clay.

I have only used white clay and Japanese clay for hand building three times because stoneware is more common where I live. It costs higher, besides. Compared to stoneware, white clay is smoother, more elastic and supple. When glazed and fired on a higher temperature, the finished product is sturdier and shinier. More brilliant.

The Joseon vase, it’s a bottle, actually - as curated by the National Museum of Korea, is simple, elegant and astute. It is the rope design that makes the art piece compelling. While the porcelain stands like a Joseon nobility, the golden brown rope tethers it to the ground. It conveys being tied to something or to someone. A connection to one’s roots or heritage. An expression of loyalty. A bond. A devotion. Isn’t this sublime?

And in this, the vase mirrors Kim Namjoon himself—steadfast and grounded, yet luminous in his brilliance, embodying the kind of leadership that ties people together with wisdom, humility, and an unwavering devotion to both heritage and growth.

Ahjumma Reviews: RPWP

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zarah Gagatiga (@the.readingarmy)

ARMY Glow Up 2025: HOTS Volume 1 Cylinder

 

@titazeeh7

It’s always a learning experience!

♬ on the street (with J. Cole) - j-hope & J. Cole

Fandom Culture: Multistans and ARMY Life

Multistannig has deeply affected me because a friend I once knew as a fellow ARMY had been dishonest and turned her back on our friendship and connection to become a multistan. This has left me feeling hurt and betrayed. She never apologized especially when well meaning people tried their best to bridge and salvage any love that was lost.

Her decision, especially during the sensitive time of BTS’s military service, made it even harder to process and understand. Grappling with multistanning in this context only amplified the emotional weight of the experience.

I feel the tremendous loss. I still grieve. It has been a year and a half. I have been struggling to wrap my head around this experience; this fan behavior. Recent events that I read online made me realize the complexity of this phenomena.

Multistaning, or being a fan of multiple artists or groups, is a common and natural part of enjoying music, but it can be a controversial topic in highly dedicated fandoms like ARMY. On one hand, there is nothing ethically wrong with being a multistan while identifying as an ARMY. Music is a universal language, and people can find inspiration and joy in the works of multiple artists. On the other hand, the dynamics of fandoms, particularly ARMY’s unique sense of unity, can make multistaning a sensitive subject, with some potential downsides.

BTS has always championed messages of love, inclusivity, and individuality. Their music and ethos encourage fans to embrace their passions and celebrate diversity, including musical tastes. Supporting other artists while loving BTS aligns with these values. Multistaning doesn’t inherently diminish one’s dedication to BTS; it reflects an openness to exploring different creative expressions, which BTS themselves would likely appreciate. For many, being a multistan is simply an extension of their love for music.

However, the collective power of ARMY relies on unity and focused support, particularly in areas like streaming, voting, and defending BTS against industry challenges or unfair criticism. Multistaning can sometimes dilute this collective effort, as divided attention may result in less participation in initiatives critical to BTS’s success. This can be especially significant during times when the fandom is rallying to support the group in competitions or to achieve milestones.

Another concern I observed is the potential for multistaning to undermine fandom solidarity. BTS has faced many obstacles in their rise to global fame, and ARMY has often served as a protective shield against criticism and marginalization. Aligning with other groups, particularly those whose fandoms have had conflicts with ARMY, might unintentionally create tension or be perceived as disloyal. It becomes even trickier when these rival fandoms engage in actions that disrespect BTS or their fans.

There’s also a risk of comparison when multistans support multiple groups. Even with good intentions, comparisons can lead to unnecessary conflicts and diminish the appreciation of BTS’s unique artistry. Additionally, praising another group while in ARMY spaces can be interpreted as a lack of focus or respect for BTS. This is especially sensitive in fandom politics, where loyalty often defines group identity and purpose.

On the flip side, multistaning can foster personal growth and joy. It allows fans to experience a broader range of music and creativity, which may even deepen their appreciation for BTS’s artistry. However, it’s essential for multistans to balance this by staying true to BTS’s values and respecting ARMY’s collective efforts. Morality in fandom is less about exclusivity and more about maintaining a respectful and supportive engagement with both the group and fellow fans.

Ultimately, multistaning is a personal choice that isn’t inherently right or wrong. It comes down to how it’s managed. If a multistan respects BTS’s legacy, supports ARMY’s unified efforts, and avoids contributing to fandom conflicts, they can enjoy the best of both worlds. Balancing the love for BTS with an appreciation for other artists requires intentionality, but it’s entirely possible to do so without compromising one’s identity as an ARMY.

So. I have put my emotions aside and allow logic and reason to prevail. I will heal from the wounds inflicted by a person who never recognized or acknowledged the depth of my loyalty and connection.

Today, I choose to be good in the midst of my grief.

It’s time to move and carry on.

I Say Thank You is in Book Nook Bicol!

1st Sunday of Advent: The Candle of Hope

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zarah Gagatiga (@the.readingarmy)

The Lighthouse Diary #65: Welcome, Friends from Woodrose!

 

Masaya Ang Maging Ako, Braille Edition

Ang aming aklat, Masaya Ang Maging Ako (Lampara Books, 2020), ay mayroon ng version sa Braille!

Magbasa! Mangarap! Magdiwang!

Maraming salamat sa National Library of the Philipppines at sa Quezon City Public Library na nag-initiate sa proyektong ito. Nagbukas kayo ng pinto upang makapagbasa ang mga batang may kapansanan sa paningin. Mailalapit ninyo ang aming aklat sa kanila!

Sa Team Lampara House at sa mga kaibigang manunulat, ilustrador at mga taong naging bahagi ng Room to Read para sa proyektong ito, tuloy lang tayo!

Happy National Book Week! Happy National Reading Month!

Mababasa ang detalye ng proyekto sa post ng Quezon City Public Library sa Facebook.