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SM Book Nook Reading Festival brings Filipino stories to life at SM Aura

The SM Book Nook Reading Festival, held on January 31, 2025, at the Book Nook in SM Aura, drew 500 
book lovers of all ages for a dynamic celebration of Filipino literature and creativity. From engaging author 
meet-and-greets to lively performances and informative workshops, the festival offered a rich array of literary experiences.


Interactive storytelling and inspiration
One of the festival's highlights was the launch of SM Book Nook's innovative "Pass the Plot" board. This 
interactive activity encouraged participants to co-create a story, sentence by sentence, showcasing their 
collective creativity.

A major highlight of the event was the presence of renowned literary personalities such as National Artist for 
Literature Virgilio Almario (Rio Alma), Dean Tony Laviña, Hans Pieter Arao, and Jayson Fajardo. Attendees 
had the unique opportunity to connect with these esteemed authors, get their books signed, and engage in 
insightful conversations. The festival also showcased emerging talent, with popular independent authors like 
Therese Villarante-Langit connecting with readers and sharing their work.

A celebration of community and shared passion
A heartwarming moment unfolded when publishers and authors united for a meaningful cause—donating 
books to the SM Book Nook. This symbolic gesture underscored the collective mission of promoting a culture of reading and knowledge-sharing.

Engaging activities for all ages
The festival buzzed with activity throughout the day. Attendees participated in fun quiz games, delved into 
historical fiction readings, and engaged in thought-provoking book club discussions. Spoken word poetry 
performances by teens and young adults added a contemporary flair, while a session on zines with BBZ offered a glimpse into the world of independent publishing. Publishers like Bookshelf PH, Grana Books, and Aklat 
Alamid showcased their latest titles, and a special session on copyright law provided valuable information for 
aspiring authors.


The SM Book Nook Reading Festival proved to be more than just a book event. It was a lively community 
gathering, a celebration of Filipino storytelling, and a source of inspiration for both established and aspiring 
writers.

For more information about SM's community programs and how you can get involved, 
visit: https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares/.

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