Mala & the Mask of Gold

by Jaime Martin Ko Atilano

Overview

Deep down, Mala always knew they were different from the other children of Zambo. But it is not until they are visited by Sidapa, the Deity of Death, that they learn why.

Siblings Mala and Salem have more potential than meets the eye. As Mala finds themselves a part of an ancient prophecy, Salem must decide if he should follow his dream of becoming a defender of Zambo. They travel together to Isla Sirena where they find that mythical beasts have come to life! Mala learns that they must find the Mask of Gold before the dragon-like Bakunawa devours the moon by the next Lunar Eclipse and leaves the entire world in total destruction.

Mala & the Mask of Gold is a character-driven, coming-of-age novel that explores siblinghood, identity, and Filipinx mythology. This book will transport you to a magical realm where mythical creatures are real and danger lurks around every corner.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781636765624
Publisher:	New Degree Press
Publication date:	12/07/2020
Pages:	210
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.44(d)

About the Author

Jaime Martin Ko Atilano is a non-binary immigrant from the Philippines and a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. They were awarded the Lorde-O'Leary award for their work at the University of Maryland for tackling initiatives like implementing all-gender restrooms, advocating for inclusive healthcare practices for trans/non-binary students, and speaking at panels to educate students on LGBTQ+ terminology and issues.

After growing up without any characters (on screen or in books) that looked like them, Jaime decided to write the book Mala & the Mask of Gold to include characters that their younger self would have cherished. Outside of activism and writing, they spend their time practicing their makeup and styling skills.

Table of Contents

A Note from the Author
Chapter One: The Aklatan
Chapter Two: A Visit from Death
Chapter Three: An Ultimatum
Chapter Four: The Vinta
Chapter Five: Castaway
Chapter Six: Fruit of Life
Chapter Seven: Princess of Taal
Chapter Eight: Fight or Flight
Chapter Nine: The Beast King
Chapter Ten: Sisters of the Isla Sirena
Chapter Eleven: Night of Blood Moon
Chapter Twelve: Haliya's Secret
Chapter Thirteen: Malaya
Chapter Fourteen: New Beginnings
Chapter Fifteen: To New Hope
Epilogue
Acknowledgments

Editorial Reviews

"The representation we need for a community that has yet to take the spotlight, Mala & The Mask of Gold executes a story the LGBTQ+ community deserves, flawlessly."—Kevin Ninh, FlawlessKevin, Content Creator, LGBTQ+ Advocate, YouTube Influencer

"I love the magic, first of all. The explanation of mythology and the richness of the world all tie in together to make the fantasy seem realer than real. I adored it!…I love hearing about the glimpses of backstory, of families leading to found families leading to magical families. It feels real to the idea of found family and queerness."—Sophie Whittemore, Author of Catch Lili Too and Film Maker

"Atilano unapologetically renders beauty, diversity, and complexity in a narrative that is deeply compelling. I know that more people in the world will see themselves in Mala and the heart and drive behind their mission. Atilano's debut is fantastic and I look forward to reading more of their work!"—Kyra Ann Dawkins, Author of The We and the They

"It's hard to tell that Mala & the Mask of Gold is fantasy fiction because the world Atilano creates is undeniably real. It is a beautiful journey that combines both ancient and modern-day culture that is sure to take you to places you never thought imaginable."—Joseph Tolonen, Author of Thriving by Following

From the Publisher