Poetry: At low tide

 

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ARMY Glow Up 2025: Block Prints

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Author Interview: Khristian Ross Pimentel

I was pleasantly surprised to meet Khristian Ross Pimentel at the Philippine Book Festival. We met in a DepEd training in Antipolo on children's story writing and illustrations previous to the pandemic. He is now a published children's book author under Johnny and Hansel Publications. He was at the PBF 2025 to sign books. Congratulations, Khristian! 

When I asked him for an interview in the blog, he agreed. And so, I present to you, Koko's World by Khristian Ross Pimentel.

1. What inspired you to write Koko's World?

My newest book from Johnny and Hansel Publications is entitled Koko's World (Ang Mundo Ni Koko), in which the character was drawn from one of the spreads of my wife Cathy's previous book where our characters KatKat and Bunso were running together with a boy.  We both thought of writing a new story about that boy. I decided to call him Koko.

In 2023, our daughter Katniss was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) when the idea was conceived. As a children's book collector, I notice that there are very rare books that tackle or explore ASD as a topic on children's books although this was already popular as early as 1990s based on my research. Most of the story books that are available in the market are for elementary school children.  Our goal in this book is to cultivate awareness among very young readers that although we may all be different from one another, we can all live together in the same world. If parents and young children understand inclusivity, it is possible to make a better world.

2. Can you share your writing process—do you follow a routine, or is it more spontaneous?

Some of my works are products of ideas or concepts that arrive out of the blue. I usually write them down in my notebook or type them on my phone. Sometimes, I just keep on thinking about it, and when I can no longer contain the excitement, I write the first draft. Other times, some stories need to stay in a folder for a while. I get back to them whenever I encounter experiences related to those characters, conflict, or theme.

 

3. What do you hope readers take away from your book?

Like our strong belief in our previous books, we are confident that a story of a child with special needs is necessary and timely as cases are still rising and communities need to create a world that will be inclusive to all children.  As parents, we want our child to live in a world that acknowledges, respects, and values differences and inclusivity. We long for a world where everyone will accept our children the moment they leave our home. A world where they can be who they want to be. A world where they can be safe and loved.

Short Bio

Khristian Ross P. Pimentel or Coco graduated from Philippine Normal University and from the University of the Philippines Diliman, where he is currently taking courses to earn a PhD degree. Coco won some literary awards including an honorable mention in 2022 PBBY-Salanga for the story The Visit.  He is also a published author of Ang Mahiwagang Kahilingan Ni Papa Gong (Environment Management Bureau, 2023), The Visit (Johnny and Hansel Publications, 2023), The Magic Words (Chikiting Books, 2023), and Ang Itlog Ni Bunso (Johnny and Hansel Publications, 2022). 

Coco loves collecting books, reading, blogging, telling stories, writing, and most of all, teaching. He works as a master teacher in Antipolo City. He lives in Antipolo City with his wife Cathy and daughter Katniss Isla.

Description of the Book

From the makers of Ang Itlog Ni Bunso and Isang Daan Mata comes another story about a world where everyone belongs. Koko’s World (Ang Mundo Ni Koko) by Johnny and Hansel Publications is a story of a young boy who behaves differently from the other children. When the people around Koko do something, he often does the opposite. Will others understand Koko? Will Koko understand the people around him? Get to know Koko and enter his world. This book is intended for children ages three and above.

 

To buy Khristian Ross Pimentel's books, you may reach the following platforms:

Johnny and Hansel Publications, Inc.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnnyandhansel

Email: johnnyandhanselpublications17@gmail.com

Website: https://jandhpublications.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawJOECpleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHZ_F0p4vXH_QCeQ_w_sOoy8jagF5X3J1UqRlGvArGuM6dfF32T1pGxNDwg_aem_0tyLCCBPePC-og164pVLdA

 

Books, Beats and BTS: He's Always Been This Hoseok

When Hoseok danced inside the elevator in the Butter MV, I was wrecked. He filled that small rectangular space with light and joy. His energy grabbed me in and my heart that was isolated by the pandemic opened to full bloom. Hoseok has that power. Hoseok has that charisma. This led me to listen to his first album, Hope World. It was illuminating in its playful riddling of life lessons and offering comfort along the way.

That’s why, I always believed in Jung Hoseok—not just as an idol, but as an artist, a visionary, and a storyteller. Long before the world applauded or stood in awe at his solo concert, I saw the spark. I saw the depth behind the smile, the intelligence behind the dance, the brilliance behind every verse.

Referencing Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea (Jules Verne, 1869) in his debut album wasn’t just source of inspiration. It was proof of the world he was building, the worlds he would take us to. As one of the pioneers of science fiction, Verne explored the themes of autonomy, curiosity and freedom in Captain Nemo— the same way Hoseok explored identity and agency in a highly structured industry while seeking for harmony. That kind of imagination, passion, discipline, and heart? That’s not ordinary. That’s Hoseok.

So today, as he takes the stage alone—bold, brilliant, and unapologetically himself—I want to say: To me, he’s always been this Hoseok.

And I’ll keep believing in every version of him yet to come.

#BTS_Jhope

My Five Characteristics of Children's Literature and Young Adult Literature

I was invited by college students from the UP Diliman Institute of Library and Information Science to give a lecture and author talk for a class of National Service Training Program (NSTP) students. I was tasked to provide them with ideas, concepts, and insights into my writing life. The class is assigned to write stories for children as part of their Literacy Training Service (LTS), a program focusing on teaching literacy and numeracy skills to communities.

For this engagement, I structured my talk into three sections: first, exploring what stories are; second, sharing my book Dear Nanay and the story behind its creation; and third, providing input on my personal writing process. During the session, students had the opportunity to ask questions, one of which was about my use of AI in writing. I responded openly, sharing that I do use AI and maintain transparency with my team and publisher. I explained that AI acts as my "thinking buddy," particularly in the pre-writing stage where generating ideas and exploring topics becomes more dynamic with its assistance. However, I emphasized that authorial choice remains central. At the end of the day, I make intentional decisions about what goes into my writing.

Another interesting discussion arose around bias and stereotypes. We acknowledged that biases are inherently present in all of us, making it impossible for stories to be completely bias-free. Instead, I encouraged the students to develop awareness of their own biases as well as those of others. This heightened awareness allows us to manage biases constructively, openly communicate about them, and collaboratively decide on the best approach when creating stories.

Additionally, I emphasized the importance of understanding the distinct characteristics of Children's and Young Adult Literature based on my experience as school librarian and children's book writer. Here they are, as shared during the Zoom call:

1. Children's and YA literature is the literature of hope.
2. Children's and YA literature celebrates our inner child and childhood experiences.
3. Children's and YA literature is the literature of legacy.
4. Creators of Children's and YA literature thoughtfully consider their audience's reading and literacy skills.
5. Children's and YA literature involves adults who care for children and teens, giving them agency and influence in selecting and using stories.

Finally, I shared with the class my new books, which will be showcased and available for purchase at the upcoming Manila International Book Fair in September. My heartfelt gratitude goes to Prof. Dan Dorado for initiating and leading this meaningful class project!

NSTP stands for National Service Training Program.

It's a Philippine civic education and defense preparedness program required for tertiary (college-level) students, established by Republic Act No. 9163 in 2001. The program aims to enhance civic consciousness, defense preparedness, and community service among Filipino youth.

NSTP has three components, from which students must choose one to complete as part of their graduation requirement:

1. Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) – Military training for defense preparedness.
2. Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) – Activities focused on community service and improving the quality of life.
3. Literacy Training Service (LTS) – Programs focused on teaching literacy and numeracy skills to communities.

Most students choose between CWTS and LTS, while ROTC is specifically oriented toward military and defense training.

Start Right Reading Series New Edition 2025: Level 2

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Start Right Reading Series New Edition 2025: Level 1

 

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Kuwentong Bangtan: Climbing Upward and Inward

Once again, Joon went for a climb to the summit of Insubong Peak (인수봉) in Bukhansan National Park, as indicated by the signpost beside him that reads “신선대 정상” (Sinsundae Summit) at 726 meters.

Like Joon, I go out for walking and trekking. Where I live, we are still blessed with spaces for walks and the like. Each step I take is a conversation with the land, each breath a moment with myself. The soil, the ground, the earth holds memory and the vast sky welcomes every version of me — who I was and who I have become.

I have yet a real mountain to climb, but I know what it means to return to a place I have journeyed before. The landscape may look the same, but I am not. Some things remain. Some things change. This is true of the world around us and the world within us. What new perspectives can one take when the view is familiar, but the soul has shifted?

Perhaps the climb is not just upward, but inward, too.

And this is what I truly love about Joon. Why he is my ultimate. Even in pictures, he has the power to bring me to places where I can rediscover and regain a sense of self. A sacred pause into the wilderness. Never without presence.

Truly, we never walk alone.

Bogoshipda

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Kuwentong Bangtan: Mona Lisa as J-hope's Anima

When J-hope dropped the MV of "Mona Lisa,” I made sure to give it several views. To boost ratings, viewership and charting, of course, but also for a full-on view of the choreography. His performances in Brooklyn and Chicago were sensual and seductive the MV would make for another experience of passion and desire. On the surface, it sounds and looks exactly that - Hobi wildin' in Brooklyn and Chi Town. But knowing Hobi’s creative mind from his body of works, I had a feeling there was more underneath.

The allusion to Mona Lisa, a masterpiece by Da Vinci, is a juicy topic of discussion for an ARMY Theorist like me.  And then Jung, my bias, entered the chat. 

Carl Jung talked about the “anima,” the inner feminine side of a man’s mind. He defined the anima as the personification of all feminine psychological tendencies within a man—the archetype of life itself, symbolizing emotion, intuition, receptivity, and the bridge to the unconscious (Jung, 1953; Jung, 1964). She’s deep, emotional, creative—a guide that helps a person become whole (Jung, 1953). The anima often shows up in dreams, art, and imagination, appearing as a mysterious woman who stirs strong feelings (Jung, 1964). If Hobi's Mona Lisa isn’t just about a girl, maybe she’s a symbol of his anima, a reflection of his inner world.

In a previous post, I have likened the Gemini girl and Hobi's blonde beauty in the MV of Sweet Dreams as a metaphor of his anima. More than a significant other, this lady he met in the middle of the road amidst the chaos and whimsy is his muse and emotional anchor. A reflection of his creative power, passion and desires. This narrative continues in Mona Lisa.

Take these lyrics: “I like my girls pretty, so fine / One plus the nine.” One plus nine equals ten—a number often seen as whole or complete. She’s not just any girl. She’s the perfect image. Beautiful like a painting, maybe even too perfect to be real. This sounds like the anima as an ideal, not a person but a symbol of what is good, true and beautiful, also known as Aesthetics.

When he sings, “Art piece to frame, Mona, Mona Lisa, yeah, I need ya,” he’s saying more than “I like how you look.” She’s framed, admired, untouchable—like something inside him that he’s trying to understand or get closer to. Her independence (“got her own check”) and her calm confidence (“don’t need no validation”) hint that she’s more than a crush—she’s a powerful part of him that seeks agency and autonomy in his authorial choices.

One line really stood out to me: “Love the way you take the stress and Louis off of me.” That’s not just someone helping him chill. It’s someone helping him take off the pressure of image and fame. The anima does that, too. She helps a person feel more real, more honest and authentic (Jung, 1953; Jung, 1959).

I can connect this to Hobi’s older tracks like “Arson,” where he faced darker parts of himself. The shadow, as Jung would call it. “Mona Lisa”, despite the undulating choreography and the delicious body rolls, feels quieter, more thoughtful, really. It's like Hobi has moved from fighting with himself to listening. Less of an arsonist, and more of the introspective artist being one with his future self but staying rooted to his origins.

As for the choreography, it adds another layer to this idea. With its sexy and seductive moves, Hobi embodies the sensual and magnetic force of the anima. Jung noted that the anima often first appears in seductive forms (Jung, 1959), drawing the ego inward through fascination and desire., thus, we are all enthralled. The dance, then, becomes more than performance. It’s an expression of the unconscious, a physical ritual of creative integration. Through movement, Hobi channels this inner force, turning the song into a full-bodied experience of artistic assertion and continuous emotional self-discovery.

So maybe “Mona Lisa” isn’t about someone else. Maybe it’s about an inner muse. Someone who is calm, mysterious, and wise. She’s helping him grow, create, and stay grounded. It’s Hobi looking at that quiet smile within, and realizing that beauty, truth, and self-growth are all connected.


References:

Jung, C. G. (1953). Psychological Aspects of the Anima. In Collected Works of C.G. Jung (Vol. 9, Part I). Princeton University Press.
Jung, C. G. (1959). Aion: Researches into the Phenomenology of the Self. In Collected Works of C.G. Jung (Vol. 9, Part II). Princeton University Press.
Jung, C. G. (1964). Man and His Symbols. Dell Publishing.

Philippine Book Festival 2025: A Book Experience Indeed!

Now that the dust has settled over the success of the 2025 Philippine Book Festival (PBF 2025), I look back with much fondness on the experience of my 2-day visit and participation.

On Day 2 of the PBF 2025, I had the pleasure of meeting new people and reconnecting with old friends at the Lampara Booth. I have new books out in the market in September 2025 and the scoping session by the DepEd was an opportune time to talk to teachers and librarian friends about our new titles.

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After lunch, I joined the team of Indie Collab PH for a panel on Inclusion and Inclusive Library Services. There I discovered Lean Borlongan's moving poetry. As to the course of our discussion in the panel, I'm reserving a separate post for that -- so, stay tuned!

Day 3 was our moment -- the Lampara Team who helped me and Juno Abreu work on our new book series, the Disaster Ready Kids, as we took the main stage to share our creative process and back stories. I spent the rest of the day buying select books, visiting booths in the Booktopia, Kids Lit and Aklat Aral realms, as well as the PBBY and IBBY booth that featured award winning books by our writers and illustrators.

The Philippine Book Festival was indeed an experience! However, we need a bigger and roomier venue next year.

My deepest gratitude to the incredible team at Lampara Books and to Jun Matias, whose resilience and dedication made the Disaster Kids Series a reality. Heartfelt thanks as well to the National Book Development Board - Philippines for giving us a space on the Main Stage to launch this important series and share what truly matters to us—why we write, why we love stories the way we do, and the dreams that keep us moving forward.

In times as chaotic and uncertain as these, stories remain our anchor. They connect us, challenge us to think critically, and nurture empathy. More than ever, we need narratives that empower young minds, equip them with knowledge, and remind them of their strength and resilience. This passion fuels us, and we’ll keep going—creating, sharing, and believing in the power of stories to make a difference.

#PhilippineBookFestival2025 #DisasterKidsSeries #LamparaBooks #BatangLampara

#StorytellingMatters #BooksThatEmpower

Rey Bufi salamat!