We Belong

An extraordinarily beautiful novel-in-verse, this important debut weaves a dramatic immigrant story together with Pilipino mythology to create something wholly new.

Stella and Luna know that their mama, Elsie, came from the Philippines when she was a child, but they don't know much else. So one night they ask her to tell them her story. As they get ready for bed, their mama spins two tales: that of her youth as a strong-willed middle child and immigrant; and that of the young life of Mayari, the mythical daughter of a god. Both are tales of sisterhood and motherhood, and of the difficult experience of trying to fit into a new culture, and having to fight for a home and acceptance. Glorious and layered, this is a portrait of family and strength for the ages.


Genre: Children's Fiction

"Written in poignant and at times ethereal free verse, We Belong is at once beautiful and sad, comforting and disturbing, and as tender and fierce as the love with which it is told." - Marilyn Hilton

"Simply beautiful. The kind of book that holds you close and won’t let go." - Erin Entrada Kelly

"A beautiful, intertwined story of searching for a home away from home, told as two tales. Heart-wrenching, engaging, and full of hope." - K S Villoso