Alila, Our Little Philippine Cousin

"Alila, Our Little Philippine Cousin" by Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade is a juvenile fiction book that transports young readers to the early 1900s Philippines through the eyes of a young boy. The story follows Alila, a member of the Tagal tribe, and showcases the experiences of his childhood; from his christening to his adventures in the village -- each event is portrayed with rich details that emphasize the importance of nature, family, and community. From his early days spent getting to know the wildlife and his interactions with his tame buffalo, to his hunts with his father and work on the family sugar plantation, he experiences all aspects of his life--each experience brings the beautiful landscape of the Philippines to life and immersing young readers in a way that they will learn more about an unfamiliar world.