I can’t believe I actually get to say this: my debut graphic novel will be out in a week.
That’s right, folks. Squalo & Mage vs. the Rage of the Bakunawa is gonna be sitting on the shelves of your favorite bookstores starting May 26, 2026 (on June 18 if you’re in the UK and June 30 if you’re in Australia and New Zealand). Insane!!!
Leading up to this, I’ve been promoting my book at art markets and online. I made stickers, bookmarks, postcards, art prints, blind box keychains, and washi tape, and have had my book out on display for people to browse.
In the digital realm, Instagram is my go-to. Little comics, behind-the-scenes snippets, trade review posts. I even got my hands a ‘lil dirty with a tiny animation project I almost abandoned halfway through.
Presenting—Let’s Interview Mage:
And honestly, I’m glad I pulled through with this interview video for the Gram. I teamed up with my niece, Luna, to voice Mage. Other than an even shorter animation clip I worked on with her, this was her first time to give voice acting a go. She’s a natural!
I’m doing what I can to get the word out there. It’s my first book after all! It’s my baby! Plus, many authors advise newbies to promote their book themselves. Your publisher helps, but you can’t rely on them to do it all for you. You gotta do your own outreach. Go DIY if you must. I’m happy to report that what I’ve been doing is paying off. I feel I can do a little more, but I know I’m headed in the right direction.
This week, I’m working with a non-profit book tour organization called The Filipino Shelf by Akdang Pinoy. They’re doing a week-long digital book tour, wherein Filipino book reviewers and creators will post about Squalo & Mage and share their honest thoughts on the book. Then on June 20th, I’ll be at Fully Booked for my local book launch. Sooo excited for that! Also looking forward to doing a few book signings in places outside Metro Manila in the coming months. More details soon. It’s gonna be good!
If you’re into fantasy graphic novels, video games, and have a heart for friendship, sea creatures, and the downfall of corruption, you should probably preorder my book!
Squalo & Mage vs. the Rage of the Bakunawa is available below:
HarperCollins (USA & Global)
Fully Booked (Philippines)
Waterstones (UK)
QBD (Australia)
And if you’re on Goodreads, please add my book to your Want To Read shelves or leave some 5-star lovin’. Hehe!
