“Mabuhay” by Zachary Sterling: A Heartwarming Graphic Tribute to Filipino Culture
Doing my routine scroll through the Libby app turned out to be a delightful experience this past week when I stumbled upon the charming and engrossing graphic novel Mabuhay by Zachary Sterling. I’ll admit, my main motivation for downloading it was the fact that the author and illustrator is half-Filipino, which added to my growing collection of Filipino books and helped me check off another item on my reading challenge for 2024. However, I was also eager to immerse myself in something culturally familiar yet fresh, a combination that, for me, proved irresistible.
Mabuhay quickly demonstrated that it was much more than just a way to add to my reading tally—it turned out to be a genuinely captivating read. The central themes of family and staying true to oneself were not only presented beautifully but also resonated with me on a personal level. The story felt heartwarming and relatable, particularly because of the authenticity Sterling brings to Filipino family dynamics. Even the subtle acknowledgment of the more toxic aspects of Filipino household life added an interesting layer of realism. However, this aspect never overshadowed the warmth and hospitality that lie at the heart of Filipino culture, which Sterling captures so well. His portrayal of this balance between tension and care was nuanced and familiar, making the familial environment feel both real and comforting.
What I appreciated most was the book’s tone—it managed to be light, fun, and easy to breeze through, yet never lost its grounding. While it’s the kind of graphic novel you can read in one sitting, it doesn’t feel rushed or incomplete. Although there are moments when the storytelling feels slightly simplistic, I believe this is more a reflection of the intended audience than a flaw in execution. In fact, this simplicity works to the novel’s advantage, making it accessible to a wide range of readers while still providing deeper cultural insight for those familiar with its references.
The art style was another standout feature, as it should be for any graphic novel. Sterling’s adorable illustrations added a layer of charm, enhancing the narrative by subtly weaving in Filipino legends, food, and traditions. It felt like a little love letter to Filipino culture, and as I read through the panels, I couldn’t help but feel delighted by the experience. As a younger reader, I would have devoured this over and over again, simply for the art alone. The visual style offers an engaging entry point for readers new to Filipino culture, while for those of us who grew up surrounded by these stories, it’s a nostalgic tribute to familiar tales and traditions.
Ultimately, Mabuhay is not just an entertaining read—it’s a joyful celebration of Filipino heritage, thoughtfully presented for a modern audience. I’d wholeheartedly recommend this graphic novel to anyone looking to explore Filipino culture through an enjoyable and visually captivating medium. In fact, I’m so taken with it that I’m sending it to my fiancé as we speak.