Book review

Award-winning screenwriter and one of the country’s master storytellers, Ricardo

“Ricky” Lee is behind the memorable masterpieces, which include screenplays, fiction, non-
fiction, novels and plays, have found their way into Filipino culture. Aside from his novels, Lee is
also known for his films Himala, Karnal, Anak and Jose Rizal. He has written more than 150
screenplays since the ‘70s.

Para kay B
Para kay B is the very first novel that Ricky Lee has written. It is not just a normal book
but a book within a book. It’s a breath of fresh air from the mainstream of love stories in the
Philippines book scene. The book is about love. It’s about the many faces of love and the
strength of love. This book gave me a better understanding as to what love really is, that having
our own unique definitions and experiences about love makes it something that is
indispensable. It proves that love is not all about happy ending. Not all characters on the book
have happy endings. Some may not have a happy ending but what’s important is that they are
not losing hope and continue to be optimistic. Loving makes us more appreciate and
understand the life that we live. Like what many people say, it’s not about the destination but it
is about the journey.
While I was reading the book, I felt like I was watching a movie. The author has this
cinematic way of telling the story. The details are very vivid which made me more understand
and appreciate the book. I was like transported in each scene. The book also has this poetic
vibe in it. It works with the imagination well as it has fantastical elements that I enjoyed.
Despite being a short, what’s also commendable with this book is all of its characters are
well-developed. The author presented realistic characters. They are layered and compelling.
I like the book’s modern approach and concept. It veered away from the norms and
tradition. How it was delivered is totally enjoyable. The book is easy to understand and lows
smoothly.
The book has two endings, an open ending and an ending added by the author where
the author presented concepts and ideas which somewhat added more layer to the book. In
there, he concluded all the stories that was left hanging. The ending satisfied me as what I
expected from a master storyteller.
The book also touches social topics like Philippine political problems, poverty and
gender inequality. It also has a bit of lesson about the power or writing.

Bahay ni Marta
After the success of Para kay B and si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata, Ricky Lee is back with
his third full-length novel, Bahay ni Marta described as a “heart-gripping tale of love,
transgression and redemption. ” Lee has done it again on his third novel. He shoots an
omnidirectional short fiction that just flawlessly bull’s-eyes all the marks he intends to hit. This
book is funny, sad, tragic and honestly satisfying that dares to tread the unknown hallways of
love, faith and redemption.