The novel offers an intense look at family life in the Philippines prior to immigration to the United States. Many chapters begin and end with images of the changing weather. Ninang Rola mentioned the United States when she was telling Gringo about the women's liberation in the Philippines. Sexuality and identity are important themes of the book. The novel deals extensively with the adverse effect of homophobia on its young characters.
Names tell much about a family's history.
Share the origins of your family name and stories behind it. The family in the novel eventually immigrated to the United States. Explore the character of Boy Manicure. Estrella is perhaps the most complex character in the novel. Bino A. Realuyo Bino A. Realuyo was born and raised in Manila, Philippines, and studied international relations in the United States and South America.