There are books you read because your prof demands you to, because all the cool kids love it, because your crush worships the author. There are books you read in the bus, books you read in the can.

Then there are those books you can’t put down, with words that just pop and enrich your imagination. I had the pleasure of enjoying two of that kind last week: The Lover’s Dictionary by my fave YA author, David Levithan, (borrowed from Marla and Koko) and Trese: Murder on Balete Drive, written by Budjette Tan and illustrated by KaJo Baldisimo (bought for a measly P140 at National Bookstore).

Hits where it hurts, soothes where it aches.

Pinoy folklore re-imagined in such a genius way, accompanied by stark, stunning visuals.

Here are a few of my favorite parts from each book. (Click to enlarge.)

“I know it’s because I’m swimming in your cadences, that you permeate my very language.”

Lessthanthree

Beautiful.

Meet the kick-ass Alexandra Trese.

“Hold his head.”

Who else wants to try this at home?