Patron Saint of Readers

St George and the Dragon 

Mural by Peter Paul Rubens (c. 1605-1607)

The day passed in a breeze with common regularity last Wednesday. Only this morning I've found out that UNESCO's International Day of the Book last 23rd of April for a long and existing tradition in book reading and sharing coincides with the English Feast of St George set by the Council of Oxford in 1222.

From James Brinsford's article on the founding of World Book Night: "We are not the only ones that celebrate this day as George is also the patron saint of Catalonia in Spain. As part of their day, the men of Barcelona will give the women roses, whilst they are given a book in return."

It's not far to imagine that by looking at the art above (that mirrors Archangel Michael's victory over the Devil himself) the mythology of St George's slaying of the dragon also symbolize every reader's victory over ignorance, lies, and disinformation.

Gabo 1927-2014

"It is not true that people stop pursuing dreams because they grow old, they grow old because they stop pursuing dreams."

― Gabriel Garcí­a Márquez

Summer Komikon 2014 Reads

KAYAW by Magay, et. al.

This indie publication that categorizes itself as war epic is deeply centered into the heart of the Kalinga pride--that being unscathed by the Spanish, American, and Japanese regimes. Being part of the Austronesian race (but unlike their southern brothers --the Visayan Pintados that went the low profile), Igorot and Kalinga tribesfolk settle their conflicts through brutal headhunts with much public display. The introductory story is far from gruesome though (or maybe not just yet) but the sublime contrast and similarity to the Yakuza tattoo art is noteworthy. I know, it will connect heavily to the future with Lt. Masamune in tow.

Rating: 4 cuts of lengua out of 5

RODSKI PATOTSKI by Alanguilan & Arre

Since Lastikman and Darna Lives, the tandem of Gerry Alanguilan and Arnold Arre is always a good read. That territorial dispute would have been better if they put a Chinese and not Japanese Armada to express the current climate in the West Philippine Sea. The weapon's encryption algorithm would have been better if entrusted to Dr Dalawangpuso. All in all, it remains a great read not to be taken seriously.

Rating: 4 scoops of pistachio ice cream

KIKOMACHINE X by Manix Abrera

I thought I was buying a vintage Metallica or Pearl Jam vinyl when I saw this one. Of course, this is the 10th Kikomachine book by one of the current names in local comics. Glow-in-the-dark ang cover. Sakto lang ang lalim.  Parang Sunken Garden na bumababa ng 8 cm kada taon. Hwoooh.

Rating: 3.5 fathoms deep

Click here for my review of Mervin Malonzo's TABI PO #1. 

All images belonged to the copyright authors.

Summer Komikon This Weekend!

Already on its 6th year (and 10th overall) I'm expecting a diverse and better selections of Pinoy comic books this time around. The following are just my personal picks (sadly Trese 6 wont be available just yet) but don't take my word for it, be there and find out more!

See them all here for a quick preview.

April Fool's Theme: Gmail Shelfie

Shelfie explained:

Sample background

After all, I still prefer last year's parody for treasure hunting via Google Maps.