Here is part 2 of my growing list of inclusive Filipino reads. These titles open gentle, meaningful conversations about emotions, different ways of thinking, and the realities of aging. Perfect for homes, classrooms, and libraries. 1. Pitong Tsinelas (Seven Slippers) by Divine Gil Reyes & Benjor Catindig A playful, bilingual story where each slipper represents a feeling. A wonderful tool for social-emotional learning and for supporting children who express emotions in diverse or nonverbal ways.
2. Inside Daniel’s Head by Joji Reynes-Santos A tender peek into the inner world of a child who processes thoughts, sensations, and interests differently. A powerful starting point for conversations about neurodiversity, perspective-taking, and acceptance.
3. Sixty Six (Book 1 & 2) by Russell Molina, Ian Sta. Maria & Mikey Marchan A graphic novel series that reframes aging and physical limitation through humor, heart, and heroism. Not a children’s book, but a meaningful addition to discussions on inclusion—showing that age is part of our diversity story too.
These stories remind us that every mind, body, and journey matters. Let’s keep building bookshelves that reflect empathy, dignity, and the many ways we move through the world.
Author, educator, and advocate of proactive parenting, Dr. Queena Lee-Chua leaves a legacy of research-based guidance through her books. I first knew her simply as a parent during my Xavier School era; she would often drop by the library because her son Scott was a voracious reader. Even then, she already had a knack for understanding people and community.
As the years went on, she would send me current research on literacy, especially on math, technology, and reading, as well as updates on her latest books with Anvil Publishing. One of them, “Growing Up Wired: Raising Pinoy Kids in the Digital Age”, became a nonfiction favorite and a trusted reference for my talks and library projects. Published in 2013, it challenges popular beliefs and conventional wisdom on technology use, grounding its insights in research, case studies, and sound pedagogy. Interestingly, the book opens with a prayer by Fr. Alberto Ampil, SJ, a gentle reminder that discernment, intention, and critical thinking are essential in navigating the digital world. Seasons came and went, and I gradually lost track of her more recent work, though Scott’s occasional updates on Facebook helped me keep connected from afar. Still, it was a sad day when he posted about his mother’s passing. Thank you, Queena. Today, I read your book.
this is what i know about cats
they are quiet geniuses, masters of sleep, seemingly lazy, unbothered by the rush of people and the world. but they see beyond the edges of what we notice, and so we let them be loving them gently, softly, steadily like the moon rise because when they sense your heart needs a place to rest, they will come, and they will stay.  zarahG 12.07.2025More Recent Articles
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