Fantasy Worlds and Folklore: The Magical Realm of 2019-Present Pinoy Middle-Grade Books

The emergence of fantasy worlds ingeniously interwoven with the patterned design that represents Filipino folklore is a significant phenomenon that became closely linked to Pinoy middle-grade literature during 2020 and beyond. These magical tales not only take young readers into a world of magic but also offer an entry point to the vast cultural treasure trove that is the Philippines.

During this trend, one of the remarkable entries is Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte’s “Gimo Jr. Aswang Clan”, which can be described as a middle-grade novel that immerses readers into an environment where mythical characters and ancient folklore meet with everyday life adventures centered on the young protagonist. With the introduction of Gimo Jr. on a journey to challenge perhaps the most horrible family in Philippine mythology, “Pasaporte” welcomes readers into the magic world as reality and fiction boil down between the lines. With Gimo Jr.’s story, the novel not only enchants with its magic elements but also becomes a gateway to Filipino folklore.

Another compelling example is "Liyab: Karren Renz Seña’s “Lost in a Book. It is set in the dreamy city of Liyab and develops as a gang of children find themselves with an enchanted book that gives them entry into different worlds. Throughout the supernatural realms influenced by Filipino mythology, meeting god-like creatures and infiltrating into the core of courage, “Liyab” presents readers with a wondrous journey across Philippine folklore.

In Russel Molina's "Tabi Po: In the book “Isang Aklat ng Kulam,” readers enter a world where that barrier between what is normal and mystical disappears. This brilliant piece dives into the realm of Philippine witches, or “mangkukulam”, which are a combination of traditional superstitions and modern storytelling. As Molina recounts in his details and illustration of Filipino culture, readers understand how long mystical practices have been practiced by the country.

In addition, the second novel that shares this trend is an anthology of fantasy stories written by Andrei Crisostomo in his book “Ikigai and Other Stories” These stories, set in both urban and rural landscapes, speak not only about the themes of courage and friendship but also bring to life Filipino myths. Crisostomo, like many authors in this genre, does well to combine the ancient and modern into stories that speak to people from different walks of life.

The revival of fantasy worlds and folklore in Pinoy middle-grade literature, on the other hand, works for two ends. It takes young readers into realms that are filled with wonder and inspires a love for books and storytelling as well as being an agent of preserving the cultural heritage of the Philippines. Writers are talented in combining classic characteristics with contemporary techniques of storytelling and producing not only entertaining but also national patriotic literature works.

To conclude, the emergence of fantasy

worlds and folklore in Pinoy middle-grade books from 2020 to the present is a creative shift trait significant change in Filipino literature. With the help of these captivating stories, young readers explore fantastical adventures that capture not only the magical nature but also foster a connection between myths and culture. This trend, however evolving continues to prove itself, promising generations of readers to discover the magic within oneself through his or her legacy and embracing that allure of fantastic worlds.