Chef Jessie Sincioco

 

Restaurateur (Le Souffle, 100 Revolving Restaurant and Chef Jessie at Rockwell Club), chef of the Apostolic Nunciature during the Philippine visit of Pope Francis

 

My most favorite book at this time is Pope Francis’ “Evangelii Gaudium” (The Joy of the Gospel). The first time my eyes were set on its pages I could not let go. It feels like the Holy Father is talking to me. I can feel his sincerity, his sense of humor, his genuine love for the poor and his desire to contaminate the world with the purest love of God. And the sole source of his wisdom is God’s own manuscript—the Holy Bible!

 

The book that I am dealing with now is another Pope Francis book “Open Mind, Faithful Heart.” This was actually composed by the Holy Father when he was still a cardinal. This is one book that one should really digest. Read and reread until you are able to grasp the meaning of every topic. I like the application of the reflection after each topic, it helps you comprehend its content better. This book somehow provides me with an insight into how the Holy Father strengthens his spirituality.

 

My real bedside companion is my “Pandasal.” This book provides me with the daily scriptural readings and the Gospel of the day. It also names the saint/saints of the day so you get to pray to them and ask them for special prayer/favors.

 

Ivan Guerrero

 

Filmmaker (2010’s “The Grocer” and 2009’s “Plight of the Peregrines”), chief creative officer/co-owner of the comic book and collectibles retail chain Filbar’s.

 

“Street Gang,” by Michael Davis: As a Muppet aficionado, I genuinely appreciated reading all about the history behind one of the greatest TV shows of all time, “Sesame Street.” Davis wrote a very detailed account of the many colorful characters responsible for the show’s conception and development through the years. It is very enlightening to learn how the program has had to evolve in order to keep up with younger audiences. As a supplement, I have also started reading the book “Make Art, Make Money: Lessons from Jim Henson on Fueling Your Creative Career,” by Elizabeth Hyde Stevens.

 

“The Sandman,” by Neil Gaiman: I recently finished binge-reading the entirety of the Sandman books by Neil Gaiman. While most people would prefer to read each volume separately, with adequate time between each, there is something unique to be gained from a binge-read. For one, the various connections between each book are more vivid. While there are certainly some slow parts, you get a grander understanding of the tapestry woven by Gaiman. You also get a good primer for some of the characters and situations in the new series, “The Sandman: Overture.”

 

“The Writer’s Journey,” by Christopher Vogler: This is a book I have started reading only recently. Vogler discusses narrative structure and archetype, and offers practical advice to writers who would like to understand the basics of storytelling. The book is an invaluable tool for screenwriters learning the craft.

 

 

Correction:

In the March 16, 2015, edition of Bedside Reading, the photographs of Cavite-based writer Kid Orit and Z Food Strip owner Eric Cadavillo were interchanged. We’re republishing them with the correct captions.