It wasn’t your usual bus ride. For one, the passengers argued over which translations were better for classic novel titles, until the conversation naturally evolved to a convergence of ideas about philosophy and ethics.

Others indulged you with the stories of their tattoos based on the stories they have read. Most chose to read in silence as the bus chased the sunset.

When the author talks and bookstore tours were over, the participants convened on their own. They downed a couple of beers at Session Road when night came, and even sipped the best coffee Baguio had to offer at Burnham Park in the morning—all in between their talks of the books on their list, books they just bought, and books they have yet to write.

This was in 2016, when the National Book Development Board (NBDB) launched the Pinoy Bookstore Tour in celebration of National Literature Month. The tour started in Quezon City and went to Baguio City, visiting six bookstores.

Book tour rerun

It was a project that most of its participants wished would have a rerun. Now called the Pinoy Book Stop Tour, the bibliophile’s dream field trip continues.

Slated to happen on April 7-8, NBDB’s book tour will continue to feature independent bookstores. The board has also included university libraries and campus-based bookstores, as well as book museums located within and south of Metro Manila to continue their show of support for the growing community of independent bookshops, publishers and readers.

The tour will visit the Marikina Book Museum cum Ethnology Center, Quezon City Public Library and University of Santo Tomas Publishing House Bookstore on the first day.

The second day heads south to Bodhi Mind and Body Shop in Tagaytay City, then journeys to Laguna to see the Komikero Komiks Museum, Books, Crafts and Coffeeshop and the DepEd Laguna Library Hub.

There will be book talks to be facilitated by the National Book Awards winners, poetry readings and musical performances during the tour. Walk-in participants are welcome at every book stop.