Reading Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan by Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte felt like I was watching a movie. It was hard to believe that I was reading a work in narrative form because the prose was vividly written. I enjoyed this trippy ride, and I could definitely relate to the characters in the book.
Like Danny, Eddie, and Mary, I grew up having a rich imagination. Having lucid dreams was a staple in my life. It was fascinating to read something which resonated with me. I felt like I was chasing after an unfulfilled wish to encounter an imaginary world with characters from another dimension. To have these aswang characters converse with seemingly ordinary children gave the book a natural flow. The dialogue felt real and the author seemed to understand how teenagers speak and think. It was one of the best young adult books I have read from a Filipino author.
We all crave for an otherworldly adventure. This book was satisfying to read because I felt like I was going through the journey with Danny, Eddie, and Mary. And as someone who battled acne in my growing up years, I know that carrying skincare products with me wherever I go is not a big deal. In fact, it is a must. Kudos to the author for understanding teenage nuances like that.
It is not my first aswang novel, but it was refreshing to read a local YA book on the subject which was written well. I was thoroughly impressed. I only wish that there were more illustrations in the novel. Also, I hope that the author will come up with a sequel soon. It could be from Mary’s point of view. I bet that would be a riot.
Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan by Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte is now available!