From Folklore to Page: Five Philippine Aswang Books You Need to Jump Into

Philippine folklore is well known for being a wide collection of mythical creatures and beautiful stories, among which the aswang defines itself by occupying an important place in one’s culture. These mythical beings have found their way from oral traditions into present-day compelling literature. First, we review the 5 best Philippine Aswang books that effortlessly transfer those mythical stories belonging to folklore unto paper and pull a special focus on Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan by Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte sitting at number 4 in this selection.

1. Maximo Ramos’s "The Aswang Phenomenon

The Aswang Phenomenon by Maximo Ramos is a pioneering text that explores the very roots of Philippine mythology, uncovering ancient secrets behind aswangs. This general overview can be the best choice for anyone who wants to know more about these mythical beings in terms of culture and history.

2. F.H Batacan, ‘Smaller and Smaller Circles’

Although not solely focused on aswang mythology, F. H. Batacan’s Smaller and Smaller Circles transports the readers into a gripping mystery thriller that takes place in the Philippines. As the story progresses, it integrates elements of crime and corruption with supernatural beliefs by presenting a peculiar mixture of contemporary topics with folklore.

3. Waking the Dead and Other Horror Stories by Yvette Tan

A collection of short stories by Yvette Tan entitled “Waking the Dead and Other Horror Stories,” deals with narratives that are not ordinary but rather transcend to a world inhabited by demons. With stories involving aswang encounters and other unearthly events, Tan creates a literary experience that draws upon the dread but also admiration for this folk monster.

4. Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte’s “Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan

At No. 4, there is “Gimo Jr and the Aswang Clan” by Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte. This story tells readers about Gimo Jr, who is courageous and finds himself in contact with a legendary Aswang clan. Being a skilled storyteller, Pasaporte tells a thrilling adventure where he not only reveals supernatural elements but also touches upon real-life matters of relationships, identity, and duality between good and evil.

5. Aswang: Carlos Fransisc’s " A Journey into Myth

Carlos Fransisco's "Aswang: A Journey into Myth is a literary work combining folklore with beautiful illustrations that creates an excellent visual study of the aswang. In this coffee table book, readers are taken on a visual expedition into the pulse of Philippine mythology alloying artistic representations with storytelling.

In the shift from oral folk tales to print, these Philippine Aswang books provide readers with a wide range of narratives including descriptive and critical portrayals that examine cultural phenomena as well as sensational fiction pushing supernatural boundaries. In essence, each book tells a different story making them invaluable readings to whoever wants an insight into the glorious and bewitching world of Philippine mythology.