Ang Tuta ni Noe

“Tuta as an eye-opener for young minds”

By: Grace Ella Marie E. Atienza

Title of the Book: Ang Tuta ni Noe

Author:  Virgilio S. Almario

Year of Publication: 2010

Publisher: Sagisag Pangkalakal ng Adarna House, Inc.

 

In the ancient times, a great flood almost covered the world. The ark of Noah was an instrument in keeping the animals safe during the catastrophe. But in spite of all he has offered, the living creatures felt so weary and restless. Noah spent most of his time playing with Tuta which made the others feel worse. Unfortunately, alarming things happened between the animals and the poor dog. Until one incident changed everything.  It turned out as an eye-opener for all the animals and made them stop being envious of Tuta.

Virgilio Almario’s “Ang Tuta Ni Noe” was published by the Sagisag Pangkalakal ng Adarna House, Incorporated on 2010. The story speaks about a great man named Noah who kept the animals safe during the disaster by offering them his ark. Some of the creatures shown in the story are the eagles, tigers, monkeys, elephants and dogs. I was amazed with the story because of the unique plot and unusual twists presented to us readers. The younger generation who wants to know more about the stories from the bible will surely appreciate such masterpiece.

As an amateur critic, I appreciate the English and Filipino translations of the story since we encourage children to use our country's language more often for them to enhance their basic communication skills. When we say communication skills, we are referring to the capacity of an individual that can be measured by how she or he interprets and understands books and novels. Figurative languages were also used in some parts which made the characters’ lines catchy and entertaining. Another thing is about the statement: “Just as in the past, they continue to be loved because of their dedication to their work”. For me, I considered that as a great message for people who are concerned about animals.

But at the same time, I was able to point out a flaw about the book’s features. As I set myself into a child’s or young adult’s viewpoint, I can say that the pictures printed on the book are quite dull and boring for us readers.  The illustrator used dark shades for the color combinations and displayed some features of abstract drawing. I think there will be a possibility that children will be a little bit perplexed since the illustrations are not that clear. I suggest that Mr. Sergio Bumatay, the illustrator, should use bright and noticeable shades of colors so that pictures will appear as pleasing elements to the eyes.

               

       “Tuta’s family died in the Great Flood!”

                “Only Tuta was left,” Noah’s voice broke.

                “Like you, he needs a partner to continue his kind.”

               

If you look beyond and analyze what Noah stated, he is trying to inform us the significance of being with someone. He clearly shows us that life is short, that no one knows what will happen next. In this story, companionship is one of the most important reasons why people live their lives to the fullest. Children must know that they should appreciate everything they have in life. Family, friends and partners should be treasured. The story showed us that because of the dangerous things that surround us, anyone might experience the same thing. Being generous is also a good characteristic of a person. Like Noah, we should share everything we have to other people so that we are able to live our lives the way God wants us to live it. We have seen the loneliness Tuta felt because of this tragic incident. Changes might happen and cause something different to the one involve, but on the brighter side, these experiences tell us not to give up nor lose hope. We should always try to find our happiness and keep the positivism in ourselves.

This masterpiece has a connection with what is written on the bible. An important event that we consider as the birth of our nation. The creation of the humankind and the universe. God created our homeland and you can definitely see that in the story. The Holy One was not mentioned but then as we dig deeper, we learn that the story revolves around our relationship with God.

I highly recommend this book to all the parents and their kids who are interested in knowing the biblical story behind the great ark of Noah. English and Filipino translations are written here so I think those will help you understand and learn more about the story.

*I am Grace Ella Marie E. Atienza, a graduate from Mater Carmeli School of Novaliches last March 2012.I am 16 years old and currently taking BS Child Development Education in Miriam College.