Ang Asul na Kariton by Genaro R. Gojo Cruz

Title of the book: Ang Asul na Kariton.

Author: Genaro R. Gojo Cruz 

Illustrated by: Alma Quinto 

Year of publication: 2010

Publisher: LG&M Corporation

"KARITON"

a book review by Chynna Salazar

“Ang Asul na Kariton” is about two brothers trying to survive life through poverty by making a living through collecting trash. It is a very heartwarming story and most will be inspired by this story.

           

 First of all, this book caught my eye for its amazing design. It is hard to miss such an eye-catching book because its design is not only the usual drawings on paper, but it actually looks like pieces of cloth that the artist put together to form an image. The art is very creative and it’s a really great way to keep the readers absorbed in the book.

 Now, the story is very simple. It tackles the issue of pverty in the Philippines and how people cope with it. The story is written in Filipino, and I think many of the Filipino masses will be inspired by it. The story slowly grows as you progress into it, but I have to admit that the ending was quite a cliff-hanger. But the plot is one of a kind and I’d gladly recommend it to all. Although the story is great, there are still parts I wishthe author explained fully (like what happened to their parents, etc.), but I think that was the purpose of the story.

           

 I guess the author wanted the readers to dig deep into it. What was the purpose of it for me? I think the “kariton” symbolizes something for all of us: a growing hope, or a dream that we take to places. But in order for that hope to continue burning, you have to always remember it and always work hard for it. The two brothers symbolize people who have a dream and the passion for doing what they have to in order to survive, through thick and thin.

           

 It is not the greatest children’s story I have ever read but once you look at the values, the heart of it, it’s not so bad at all. It’s agreat story for those who seek a colorful and creative view and those who have open minds.

*  Chynna Hannah M. Salazar is a BS Child Development and Education student in Mirial College. She enjoys listening to alternatie rock and reading Jostein Gaarder works during her spare time.