The Californer - New Filipino Children's Book "Diwa of Mount Luntian" Focuses on Calm, Culture, and Connection for Today's Families

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Inspired by Filipino folktales and shaped by daily rhythm, the illustrated children's story by Cleodia Martinez with art by Paola Santos will be released March 17, 2026.

SAN FRANCISCO & METRO MANILA, Philippines - Californer -- Inspired by Filipino mythological characters and landscapes, Diwa of Mount Luntian introduces young readers to the cultural figure of a diwata in a contemporary way that stays true to its roots while speaking to modern family life. In Philippine tradition, diwatas are nature spirits connected to the land, water, trees, and wind, reflecting a worldview in which the natural world is alive, relational, and deserving of care. Rather than relying on fear-based storytelling, the book centers on calm, emotional safety, sensory awareness, and connection to nature.

The story marks the debut of the Mount Luntian illustrated children's series. Written by Cleodia Martinez with art by Paola Santos, Diwa of Mount Luntian is available for pre-order now and will be released March 17, 2026, through major online retailers and select bookstores.

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Set in a nature-rooted world, the story follows Diwa, a young diwata whose inner glow shifts with her feelings. Told over the course of a single day, the narrative reflects the natural flow of early childhood—waking with the sun, engaging in meaningful activity, learning through relationship and observation, and settling into rest. Through simple, sensory moments, children are invited to slow down and notice their emotions with curiosity and care.

"Filipino folk characters have always carried wisdom," says author Cleodia Martinez. "It feels deeply meaningful to share these stories with young children in a way that supports imagination, emotional awareness, and connection, while honoring the heart of these traditional archetypes."

The book arrives at a time when many families are seeking screen-free ways to connect and stories that support emotional development without being instructional. Designed for shared reading during quiet moments of the day, the story offers a calm, reassuring experience for children and caregivers alike.

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Illustrations by Paola Santos feature warm, luminous artwork that emphasizes softness, texture, and atmosphere, bringing the world of Mount Luntian to life.

Diwa of Mount Luntian is the first title in a planned series exploring folk-inspired characters and inner emotional landscapes through nature-centered storytelling.

A free companion activity kit for families is available at

https://midsummerstudio.com/mountluntian

For additional information, visit

https://midsummerstudio.com

Follow the series on Instagram:

https://instagram.com/mountluntian