BOOKSHOP Yvonne Macaraig is an exuberant and mischievous nine-year-old when the Japanese invade her Philippine homeland in 1941; and so she begins her grim story of endurance and survival with a spirit of adventure and optimism. Her father, Nando, an American-trained engineer who's invaluable to the guerrilla movement, is often called away as Yvonne, her mother, and a small family entourage flee toward presumed safety ever deeper in the jungle. Yvonne witnesses scenes of incredible carnage and silently notes the slow decline of her mother's health, but her spirits are buouyed by the Philippine folktales narrated to her by the family cook. These myths and legends, violent and colorful, extol the gallantry of ancient warrior kings or show the triumph of love and valor over subjugation. In simple yet moving prose, Brainard's first novel presents similar acts of monumental courage: a doctor's sacrifice in the jungle; quiet defiance against terrorist threats. Gradually, Nando and his companions become aware the U.S. is capable of betraying them - and that Philippine independence is a necessity. The strengthening of the national spirit; the loss of innonence in two generations - these themes are explored by the author, who was born in the Philippines, with persuasive conviction and stark realizm. (Sept.)
E-mail questions/comments
to cbrainard@aol.com
Copyright © 2002 Cecilia
Manguerra Brainard