Rosamistica (Lola Basyang series) by Christine S. Bellen

This is one of the individual illustrated books that Anvil Publishing, Inc. released to make the reading of Reyes' masterpiece more appealing to children. All these books have a standard prologue entitled "For Teachers and Parents" and this is what it says about these stories: "The themes (of the stories) are relevant to their (children) needs and from these can be drawn lessons, delight and pleasure, and other ways of appreciation of Philippine literature." Why is this, for me, the best? Theme: Blessed are the poor in spirit (Matthew 5:3) Lessons: 1) There is light at the end of the tunnel 2) Give until it hurts Delight and Pleasure: The story is heartwarming. The only three children's books that made me felt this way were Charlotte's Web by E. B. White, The Happy Prince by Oscar Wilde and The Little Match Girl. Rosamistica has the same innocence but the message is intense and it really speaks to one's heart. Other Ways of Appreciation of Philippine Literature: The Philippines, just like anywhere in the world, has always some sad stories to tell about a lovable orphan that is being maltreated by adults.

Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Anvil (2004)
ISBN: 971271506-X
ISBN-13: 978-97-1-271506-8
Language: Filipino