Sundays in Manila by Robert H. Boyer

Sundays in Manila Reviews

• 
  Robert

  Goodreads suggests that their authors (I am one) might wish to write a review of their own book to give potential readers some background. I think that is a good idea, so here are a few behind-the-scenes anecdotes about "Sundays in Manila."
  
  One of the attractions of the "Sundays" is its illustrations. There are 37, all by Filipino artist June ("Beng") Poticar Dalisay. When I gave Beng a copy of the manuscript, she read it overnight and told me, "I laughed a lot, Bob." That sealed the deal.
  
  Like other foreign travelers, I often found myself in perplexing or embarrassing situations. Beng found every one of these and illustrated many of them in sketches. She found the pathos as well as the humor in the book and illustrated both. To Beng also goes the credit for the eye-catching and meaningful cover.
  
  My agent, my daughter Heather Boyer, likewise played a major role. To say that she critiqued the manuscript is an understatement. Her summary note will give you some idea: "The manuscript is very idealistic, and I agree with what you say, but nobody is going to read it as it is." "Ouch!" The revisions required several months, but Heather's final note was: "interesting; in fact very interesting."
  
  I wrote "Sundays" primarily with an American general reader in mind. Most sales, however, have been to Filipinos. The recent report (March 2013) from the folks at the University of the Philippines Press is that "Sundays" has been one of their best selling e-books since it appeared in that form in September of 2011. I hope that that continues. I also hope that more Americans pick up the book to read about a people whose favorite sport is basketball, whose favorite entertainment is from Hollywood, and whose constitution is modeled on that of the U.S.
  
  I conclude with an invitation to join me in my ongoing journey to the Philippines. Enjoy!
  
  Robert H. (Bob) Boyer
• 
  Kiessa

  Around the World in 52 Books: Phillipines
• 
  Miles

  I read this book the month before I moved to live in the Philippines . . . sort of a preview. Fortunately, I've learned not to have expectations. There's a big difference between being a tourist and living in a new country ! ! !
• 
  Faye

  Great handy travel book. It's easy to follow and has some great photo's