5 Public Domain Books That Were Published During the American Colonial Period Era
Written by: Alexandra Lumagbas
Date Published: November 19, 2023
The American colonial period was a significant era for the Philippines was a big source of change and unrest. Many aspects such as our education system, language, and more were significantly impacted due to this. Not exempt from this was the literature that was produced during this period, marking a unique way in how many Filipino writers wrote their stories.
In this list, we recommend 5 books from the American Colonial period that are currently in the public domain. All stories listed are ones that you may read for free at Bookshelf PH!
1. A Child of Sorrow by Zolio Galang
A Child of Sorrow is a 1921 novel written by Zolio Galang, which is notable for being the first published novel in the Philippines written in English. It is a coming of age tale set in Fertile Valley in Cetnral Luzon. Lucio and Camilo, two teenagers who are wondering what to do for their summer vacation. Lucio is content to stay home and and immerse himself in his collection of books, but Camilo insists in joining him in taking a trip into town. What follows is a whirlwind of events that significantly impact both of them.
2. Ang Mananayaw by Rosauro Almario
Ang Mananayaw tell the story of Sawi, a wealthy young man who came from the province who travels to Manila. Here, Sawi meets a dancer named Pati, who he soon falls for. Naive and infatuated, Sawi soons end up spending much of his wealth on the dancer, which eventually leads to Sawi getting disowned by his family. In the middle of his downfall, Sawi discover’s the dancer’s darkest secret.
3. Pag Susulatan nang Dalauang Binibini na si Urbana at Feliza by Modestro De Castro
Written by Modestro De Castro in 1916, this story is told through the letters exchanged by two siblings named Feliza and Urbana. Urbana, as the oldest, guides Feliza, the youngest, as she pursues her studies at a women’s college in Manila. A sense of closeness of a sibling bond can be felt while reading through their letters.
4. Landas na Tuntunin by Jose Morante
Written by Jose Morante and printed in 1918 in Intramuros, It is about Dalmaica comforting Marcela, whose father was killed due to the wrongful judgement of the Spaniards. It also shows how Marcela and Constancio sending each other letters due to the help oof Dalmacia.
5. Esperanza by Jose Maria Rivera
This novel is written by Jose Maria in 1916. It is about a woman named Esperanza, who is married to the kind Artemio, and lives a happy but simple life with him. Despite this, Esperanza continues to be haunted by her complicated past. From her in-laws condemning her, to a sudden visit from a man from her past, Esperanza can’t seem to escape her past, until a mysterious illness changes everything.
Thanks for reading. If you’re interested in reading more Philippine classic stories, head over to Bookshelf PH under their public domain tab! We hope that this article helped spark an interest for you to continue reading these stories!