This root-based dictionary of the Ilocano language is the most comprehensive dictionary produced of Ilocano (Iloko), the lingua franca of Northern Luzon, and historically the native language of the majority of Filipino immigrants to the United States. The body of the dictionary includes entries for roots and affixes with illustrative sentences, idioms, common derivations, and scientific names (when applicable). Ilocano synonyms are also furnished when appropriate. Derived words that undergo morphological fusion are listed as separate entries to facilitate lexical searches. There is also an affix cross-reference list to help the beginning student recognize root words. Unlike most dictionaries of Philippine languages, it has an extensive English to Ilocano section, information on the pre-Hispanic syllabary, and language maps of the Philippines showing where the largest concentration of Ilocano speakers reside. Of related interest: Let's Speak Ilokano, by Precy Espiritu

From ampapagot (Cebuano for triggerfish) to ligaya (bread with red filling from Bicol) to ukuh ukuh (a Tausug dish resembling a sea urchin risotto), this dictionary gathers more than 8,000 terms relating to food ingredients, dishes, cooking styles, preparation techniques, and utensils, among others. For anyone who cooks or simply loves Filipino food, this book is a vital reference and an excellent cookbook supplement.

Pearls mother, Aurora, immigrated to the United States to meet her American suitor. As a Filipina, she struggled to be accepted into her new culture. Although, she was quick to learn the foreign ways of her new country; she continued to honor her culture, a knowledge she passes on to her daughter, Pearl. Once Pearl grows up, she decides it is time to see her mothers birthplace. As soon as Pearl lands in the Philippines, she feels at home. She feels as though she learned about her home country through her mothers stories. She is at ease in the warm breeze, surrounded by the sound of the native tongue. She immerses herself in the culture and catches the eye of a wealthy local matriarch. The older woman thinks Pearl would make a perfect wife for her grandson. Pearl is soon spoiled and courted by the whole family, but a tragedy steals her dreams. She is cast out and must now find a way to still love the country of her mothers birththe country that hurt her. Aurora was a strong woman in a foreign place; her daughter can be too.