It’s the year 2012 and you’re hanging out in one of your school’s coziest spaces: the library. The bell hasn’t rung yet, so you sneak into the dusty shelves for a few minutes, hoping to pick up something that piques your interest.
At one point, you hold “Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata”—and before you even notice, you get transported to a strange world that follows the (mis)adventures of a manananggal during election season. Elsewhere in the room, your classmate is busy with “Kikomachine Komix,” packed with its peculiar characters and humor. But who knew their worlds would merge one day?
After teasing it on his Facebook page in October, veteran writer Ricky Lee finally announced that his 2011 novel “Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata” has been rebirthed as a graphic novel. The mastermind behind its adaptation? None other than Kikomachine Komix’s Manix Abrera.
In fact, they already served us a sneak peek as early as November, showing us how Abrera’s memorable art style vibes with the story—given they both tackle eccentric but relatable life events. In the words of Manix, “Hardcore! :’D”
If you can’t wait to get your hands on it, a book launch is happening on Dec. 14 at 5:00 pm on Zoom, which you can stream via UST Publishing House’s Facebook page. It’ll be welcomed alongside “Servando Magdamag at Iba Pang Maiikling Kuwento,” another recently published book by Lee housing his Palanca award-winning short story. In 2019, its film adaptation was also announced.
To grab a copy of “Si Amapola” in graphic novel form (and other Ricky Lee-penned books), order here. They did promise autographs from both collaborators, so that’s quite a treat.
Read more:
Ricky Lee needs your thoughts on his ‘Para Kay B’ sequel
Ricky Lee book club, rise: The master’s new work is here
5 award-winning Filipino novels that’ll make for cool films
Photo from Ricky Lee’s Facebook page