Boom! Bang! Clang!

Title: Boom! Bang! Clang!

Written by: Maloi Malibiran-Salumbides

Illustrated by: Robert dela Cruz Magnuson

© 2012. Hiyas. OMF Literature Inc.

Bridging Gaps: A Book Review on "Boom! Bang! Clang!"

by: Marika Angelica P. Sison

If musical instruments were to be given life, how would a typical scenario be like?

“Boom! Bang! Clang!” narrates how the Tambol and Pompiyang family are able to get along with one another amidst their differences. The story begins with both families trying to outdo each other by “booming” and “clanging” as loud as they can, causing irritation from both sides. A ruckus starts, frightening the whole Barrio Musiko. Surprisingly, the dispute ceases through the efforts of their little children, who, even at a young age, are able to show the simple values of harmony, patience and humility. The incident paves the reconciliation of families. Rather than continue the uproar, both the Tambol and Pompiyang families realize that they can make beautiful music together.

My attention was caught by the book's cover filled with an attractive illustration of two characters with very intense emotions. Salute to Robert Magnuson and Maloi Malibiran-Salumbides, for the book title - “Boom! Bang! Clang!”, and its overall creative presentation. Every page of the book is colorfully done. Its captions are readable, perfect for the book's target audience – children ages six and below. Actually, I personally see it fit even for adults and recommend it for people who would want to use this for storytelling. The illustrations, done by Robert Magnuson, are interesting because he was able to give life to the various musical instruments. Although its setting was during the 60s, when Pinoy “Western” was a trend, the clothings and props used were not hard to identify and relate to.

The story is simple and easy to understand. More importantly, the book highlights many values in life that can be learned by both children and adults. Apart from those mentioned earlier, it also portrays the importance of respect for each other's feelings, humility, and other important values. Remarkably, it is the children of both families who take the initiative to cultivate harmony and good will and heal the strained relationships. Children, indeed, have the purest of intentions and their minds are free from the complexities of selfishness and ego.

The story shows the Filipinos' love for music and festivities, as well as the importance of family ties and camaraderie among neighbors. 

All in all I like this book very much. I appreciate that it is written in Filipino and can easily be understood by most children. I hope however that the authors of this book may also consider publishing it in two languages, both in English and Filipino, so that they can have a wider reach of the audience.

Now to keep the interest going, here are a few snippets from the book:
  

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Marika Angelica P. Sison is currently a first year college student, taking up the course Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Education in Miriam College. She is an art hobbyist and a certified bookworm. One of her artworks was published in The Philippine Daily Inquirer. She is a God-fearing person who dreams of traveling the world, teaching children by means of art.