Bea’s Balikbayan Box of Treasures
What’s inside...
When a giant balikbayan box from the Philippines arrives at Bea’s California home, the curious eight-year-old and her younger brother open a trove of lovingly packed surprises from their Lola. Each layer of the box—woven bags, wooden toys, fragrant dried mangoes, and a hand-stitched baro’t saya—pulls Bea deeper into her family’s heritage. The siblings cook adobo with Dad, learn a tinikling dance step from Mom, and end the day with a video call to Lola, realizing that the greatest treasure is the bond that bridges an ocean. Blending warm family moments with Filipino culture, the picture book celebrates identity, gratitude, and inter-generational love.
Age
5-9
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Bea
Mom
Lola
Discussion points
Which item in the box was Bea’s favorite and why?
How do the treasures help Bea feel closer to Lola?
What family traditions make you feel proud?
Why did Bea decide to send something back to Lola?
Tip: Role play these questions
Recreate a simple Filipino recipe together.
Compare your own family’s special packages or traditions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: Bea thanks Lola for each gift and returns a keepsake.
Real-World Application: Children can write thank-you notes for gifts received.
Example Lesson: Cultural Pride
Explanation: Items spark stories about Philippine history and art.
Real-World Application: Kids explore their own heritage through family interviews.
Example Lesson: Sharing
Explanation: Bea involves her brother and parents in each discovery.
Real-World Application: Siblings practice turn-taking and cooperative play.
Example Lesson: Curiosity
Explanation: Bea asks questions about unfamiliar foods and dances.
Real-World Application: Children learn to research and ask questions respectfully.