Ricky Lee releases new book targetting children and adults alike
FIVE YEARS after the publication of his last book, award-winning screenwriter and author Ricky Lee has released Kung Alam N’yo Lang: Mga Kuwentong Pambata Para sa mga Hindi
na Bata, a collection of four stories told from the point of view of four children.
The 250- page book, which targets both children and adults, tackles topics as diverse as the search for God (“Ang Nawawalang Diyos”), a child who sees letters come to life in his room (“Ang Sayaw ng mga Letra”), bullying in a town that has forgotten a dark secret from its past (“Si Inggo at ang Santo Kuwatro”), and the concept of death (“Nang Mapagod si
Kamatayan”). It also includes illustrations by four different artists, Kenikenken ( Ken Bautista), Diigii Daguna, Jether Amar and Ivan Reverente.
Mr. Lee, who grew up reading comics, said children may read his new book in order to prepare them for the real world. Although
Kung Alam N’yo Lang is considered a children’s book, it can also appeal to adults who have forgotten how it is to be young. It is published by the Philippine Writers Studio Foundation, Inc.
Aside from being a book author and playwright, Mr. Lee is perhaps best known for his work in films. He has written more than 160 scripts for Filipino films since 1973, many of which have won awards here and abroad, including Himala, Karnal, Moral, Brutal, Salome and other films directed by acclaimed Filipino filmmakers, including the late National Artists for Film Lino Brocka and Ishmael Bernal. His script for Salome has also been translated into English and published by the University of Wisconsin for its film studies. Among Mr. Lee’s other titles are Trip to
Quiapo, a scriptwriting manual; Si Tatang at mga Himala ng Ating Panahon, a collection
of short stories; Pitik- Bulag Sa Buwan Ng Pebrero, a playbook; the novels Para Kay B (O Kung Paano Dinevastate ng Pag-ibig ang 4 out of 5 sa Atin) and Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata; and screenplay books Brutal/ Salome, Moral, Bukas May Pangarap and Jose Rizal.
For more information, visit Kung Alam N’yo Lang’s Facebook page ( https://www. facebook.com/ kungalamnyolang). It will be available in bookstores starting this year.