Araw sa Palengke Book Review

The Araw sa Palengke book review will take you on a nostalgic journey, reminiscent of your childhood visits to the local market with your mother. “Araw sa Palengke” written by May Tobias-Papa and illustrated by Isabel Roxas is a splendid picture book that pays homage to the beauty of childhood and their simple excursions to the marketplace. Told from the perspective of a young girl, this book exudes liveliness and the beauty of various descriptions that would appeal to both children and adults.

The narrative begins with a caution from the mother: “Makinig ka nang mabuti,” she says to me boldly. “You clung to me tightly, huh? And cannot teach what is marketable.” This easily positions a story replete with promises and revelations. The little girl’s response, “Opo, Nanay, pangako po,” bears the sense of trust and obedience that form the bond that they have.

However, these descriptions are not repulsive, rather they enhance the reality and challenge of the journey ahead. The eye level of the child in this picture is only about three feet off the ground; therefore, it is not only an entertaining view of the marketplace.

It is amazing how through “Araw sa Palengke”, one gains a sensitivity that goes beyond daydreaming. This is a vivid showcase of the market where there are various things to see, hear, and even smell implying the fascination with the market rather than the chaos. The little girl’s happiness and her curiosity as she goes through her day entice the readers to read her story. This is especially essential in promoting reading literacy in the Philippines, as this will make children wonder about their environment and value it more.

The language used in the text is informal, which also allows one to imagine the child’s attitude towards the market. Its temporal organization is deliberate and methodical, enabling the audience to take the time to appreciate each scene and its nuances. Despite the formulaic presentation of the book, the simple narrative, sweet illustrations, and careful pacing of the events make “Araw sa Palengke” very enjoyable.

At the end of the story, the reader gets a joyful twist that feels like the circle is complete at last. When the little girl goes home, she discovers from the bottom of the bayong a gift wrapped in a unique newspaper. This moment of discovery and happiness is perhaps one of the most poignant lessons in the movie, which reminds us of the importance of small kindnesses and the visit they can bring.

Conclusion

Most important is the wonderful synergy between the soft narrative by May Tobias-Papa and the highly detailed artwork of Isabel Roxas. This Araw sa Palengke book review also shows how the book effectively conveys the notion of the enchantment of the mundane; thus, it should be a must-have in the kids’ collection. Furthermore, it also serves as a good way to help inspire individuals in the Philippines to explore the joys of reading literacy to appreciate the world around them.