(L-R): SM Cares Assistant Vice President Richard A. Caluyo, SM Book Nook Reading Festival co-organizer and BookShelfPH co-founder Monette Quiogue, and SM Aura Regional Operations Head Stephanie Co
500 book enthusiasts of all ages attended the SM Book Nook Reading Festival, which took place at the Book Nook in SM Aura on January 31, 2025, as a vibrant celebration of Filipino literature and creativity. The festival provided a wide range of literary experiences, from colorful performances and educational workshops to captivating author meet-and-greets.
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.
The “Pass the Plot” board at the SM Book Nook Reading Festival ignites collaborative storytelling, inviting participants to build a narrative sentence by sentence.
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.
National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario (Rio Alma) inspires readers and shares his literary journey at the SM Book Nook Reading Festival at SM Aura.
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.
Authors and publishers, with SM Book Nook pioneer Shereen Sy (8th from right), unite to donate books at the SM Book Nook Reading Festival, promoting a love of reading.
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 audience is enthralled as author Bambi Rodriguez reads from her latest work.
There was more to the SM Book Nook Reading Festival than just books. It was a vibrant community event that honored Filipino storytelling and served as motivation for both seasoned and up-and-coming authors.
For additional details regarding SM’s community initiatives and ways to participate, go to: https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares/.
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