How My Twin Grandmas and Father Inspired The Twin Mermaids of the Island Moon Book Launch
Today, The Twin Mermaids of the Island Moon officially swims into the world. Books, however, do not just appear. They are born from the deep currents of memory, love, and the spirits of those who walked before us.
As I celebrate this milestone, I want to take you behind the pages to meet the real-world magic that built the Island Moon Universe. This book is a tribute to my family, my ancestors, and the unwritten dreams that finally found their voice.
A Tribute to My Twin Grandmas: Lola Toyang and Lola Dora
Long before I ever put pen to paper to write about twin mermaid magic, that very magic lived inside two extraordinary women—my Twin Grandmas, Lola Toyang and Lola Dora.
On this momentous launch day, I honor you both. Your legacy is the quiet current beneath my creativity. Your twin spirit is the moon that pulls every wave in this story world I am building. If my mermaids swim with courage and grace, it is only because they are reflecting the love you poured into our family.
This book is for you—my twin ancestors, my guiding tides, and my forever shimmering source.
Tatang’s Dream: The Dream That Refused to Die
There is another tether connecting this book to the past. My father, Tatang, once dreamed of being a writer.
But back then, choosing a creative profession was met with heavy, discouraging whispers: “They’ll say you’re crazy.” “Stories won’t feed a family.”
So, he tucked his dream away. He chose responsibility over imagination, sacrificing his artistic heart to care for his family. What he didn’t know was that dreams don't die—they travel. They wait. They look for another doorway into the world.
And somehow… that doorway became me.
Tatang, your dream didn’t disappear. It simply chose another path home. Every page I write carries your courage, your longing, and your quiet rebellion against the life you were told to accept. I am writing your unwritten book to the absolute best of my ability.
Silpuak man Tatang di matunday nga arapaap mo ta natulnog ka met unay kadigidi Lelong ken Lelang, ngem nangeg met ni Apo dagidi dar darepdep mo, ney siak met pinili na mangituloy tay anak mo natultuleng ngem sika, ala agree ka lattan Tatang ikararagan nak man dita langit ta maitultuloy ko daytoy a dalan agserbi kaaduan.
(To my Ilokano readers: I am continuing your endless dream, Tatang. Because you were so obedient to Grandfather and Grandmother, the Lord heard your aspirations. He chose me, your stubborn child, to continue it. Just agree to it now, Tatang, and pray for me from heaven so I can continue on this path to serve many.)
Dive Into the Magic
The Twin Mermaids of the Island Moon is more than a children's book; it is a tapestry of family heritage, resilience, and the belief that dreams are meant to be fulfilled—even if it takes a generation.
Thank you for being part of this journey. When you read this book to your children, know that you are sharing a piece of a real family's eternal flame.
Bring the Magic Home Today!
Celebrate our book launch with us. Click below to secure your copy of The Twin Mermaids of the Island Moon and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Island Moon Universe.