Maria Renker has always been passionate about books. “My mother, Nieves, is a bookworm, and her love for literature inspired me. Books were always a source of wonder and learning in my childhood, and they remain my lifelong companions,” she said.
Maria grew up in Western Visayas, in Roxas City, Capiz, and Iloilo City—for her, “places deeply rooted in history, culture, and natural beauty.”
But love brought her to Germany, where she now lives with her husband Michael and their three children Kate, Cesca, and Michael Jr. “I met my husband at Central Philippine University, and what began as a friendship blossomed into a marriage.”
Maria made sure to nurture that same passion for books in their children. “I started them young! Even during my pregnancies, I read to them. We also created a cozy home library where they could explore the world of books freely.”
In 2022, she and Michael took their love for books a step further by launching their publishing company, MRenker Books. “Our inspiration came from volunteering at the Philippine booth at the Frankfurter Buchmesse since 2018. Witnessing the vibrant community of authors and publishers there, we felt compelled to create a platform for Europe-based Filipino creators—a home away from home.”
Maria and Michael juggle running their publishing company with their work as software engineers in the space industry. “It’s a balance of technical innovation and creative passion,” Maria said.
Michael manages the technical aspects of MRenker Books, while Maria is in charge of marketing and sales. “We are supported by a talented team of translators and illustrators.”
Their kids are part of the publishing company as well. ”It’s a family effort, with each member playing a unique role,” said Maria.
First book
Young artist Kate, 20, is an illustrator for MRenker Books. Her younger sister Cesca, 18, who speaks German, English, Latin, and French, does translations for the company.
Both generations of Renkers were involved from the start. “Our first book, ‘The Best Gift in the World with The Pastel Dinos,’ was inspired by a Mother’s Day card my kids gave me. It’s proof of how their creativity continues to inspire our journey.”
Maria wrote it, Kate illustrated it, Michael was editor, and Cesca and Michael Jr. were contributors.
Maria is proud of their children’s book. “Publishing ‘The Best Gift in the World’—a project created entirely by our family—is a milestone I hold close to my heart.”
MRenker Books also published Jubail Andong’s “Five Women,” which was launched in Iloilo City in September 2022. “It’s a poignant poetry collection that explores womanhood, resilience, and identity … It’s a celebration of personal growth and empowerment,” said Maria.
“We’ve also worked with exceptional talents like Ma. Lowela Tondo-Becaro (“Grief in Pain, Relief in Poetry”), Claire Paladin (“Things I Said to the Moon”), Renato Tranquilino (“The Merovingian”), and Maya Butalid (“Chasing Windmills”).”
Community
MRenker Books publishes books in English, German, and Hiligaynon, with translations by Palanca awardee Early Sol Gadong.
The Renkers have a lot of plans for MRenker Books and are looking forward to next year’s Frankfurt Book Fair. “We’re excited for new releases and our participation in the 2025 Frankfurter Buchmesse, where the Philippines will be the guest of honor—it’s a proud moment for our community.”
Community is important to Maria. In fact, she founded the Philippine Literary Circle Europe. “It’s a network of Europe-based Filipino authors supporting and celebrating each other’s work.”
Maria and Michael also host the podcast TalkAlley, which has been running for over three years.
Working with her family is “both rewarding and challenging,” said Maria. ”The passion we share can ignite creative sparks but also demands a balance between work and family life.”
She loves that her kids share her love for books, but Maria wants them to do what their hearts desire, whether it’s publishing or not.
“It’s fulfilling, but I encourage them to pursue their own dreams. Kate loves traveling, Cesca aspires to become a doctor, and Michael Jr. enjoys being a playful, curious child.” INQ