Let's be clear: this isn't a novel. Philippine Folk Tales is a treasure chest someone left open. Mabel Cook Cole, an American anthropologist, traveled around the Philippines in the early 1900s and wrote down stories people told her. The book is organized by region—you get tales from the Tinguian, Igorot, Moro, and other groups. One minute you're reading about how the sky was raised, the next you're following a monkey and a turtle in a classic trickster tale.

The Story

There isn't a single plot. Instead, you hop from one short story to the next. Some explain why things are the way they are, like why mosquitoes exist or how the different peoples came to live on different islands. Others are simple fables about greed, cleverness, and kindness. Many feature magical creatures from Filipino mythology, like the aswang or the kapre. You see common themes pop up across different regions, which is fascinating—it shows what all these communities valued and feared.

Why You Should Read It

I loved this because it feels authentic. These aren't polished fairy tales from a big publishing house. They have rough edges, sudden endings, and a sense of real wonder. You can almost hear the voice of the storyteller. It's a direct line to how people explained their world. Reading it made me think about all the stories my own grandparents might have known but never passed down. It's a powerful reminder of what we can lose if we don't listen.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for curious minds, mythology lovers, and anyone with Filipino heritage looking for a connection to the past. It's also great if you're just tired of the same old European fairy tales and want something fresh. The writing is simple and clear, so it's an easy, bite-sized read. Keep in mind it's a product of its time—the introduction feels dated—but the stories themselves are timeless. Dive in and discover a world of talking crabs, shape-shifting spirits, and the simple wisdom of generations.