I am very happy and proud to announce a new book that I’ve illustrated, titled Simply Jesse.  It is a wonderful story written by Yvette Fernandez about the life of Jesse Robredo as narrated by his daughter, Jillian.  She recounts how her dad lived his life as a dedicated mayor of Naga City and a good father to his family. I remember getting really teary-eyed while I was reading the draft of the story— it was so moving. There were also times when I’d feel bouts of sorrow while sifting through photos on google for reference, or while drawing him with his family. (; _ 😉 Mr. Robredo was truly one of a kind, and though his passing was such a huge loss to the country we hope people will continue to be inspired by his story.

 

 

The book launch was held last March 15, 2013, at National Bookstore Glorietta 1.  I am a shy person, so being in the limelight was quite overwhelming but overall a good experience.  I won’t be as nervous next time! It was also surreal to meet the Robredo family for the first time— the people I’ve been drawing and coloring and whose facebook accounts I’ve been stalking for reference pictures for the past 3 months… I feel like I know them already! haha. Also, listening to Jillian narrate a few excerpts from the book was my favorite part of the entire event. (=´▽`=)

This is the second book I’ve worked on with Yvette, the first being Maia’s Birthday Party. It’s pretty amazing how life just connects you to people and brings you to where you’re supposed to be. I am very grateful to Yvette and everyone at Big Dream Books for inviting me to illustrate this book.

Simply Jesse is available in all National Bookstores (e-store link) or Summit Media magazine kiosks nationwide for only 125 pesos! Also published by the same group are stories about Cory and Ninoy Aquino, John Gokongwei, and Nanay Coring. They’re all really good– it gives you an entirely new perspective about these successful people, from their humble beginnings to how they’ve overcome hardship and adversity to get to where they are now, all the while still grounded to their values and love for their family.