Vibal Foundation, Inc. is proud to announce the simultaneous release of three compelling new books under its Paradox imprint—a bold collection dedicated to speculative fiction titles. This unique event celebrates the prodigious talents of the Alfar family: acclaimed literary icons Dean Francis and Nikki Alfar, and their son, rising author Ryo Alfar.
Together, their latest works—Moon Sun Stars (Selected Stories by Dean Francis Alfar), Doomsday Dance Party by Nikki Alfar, and Fragile Magics by Ryo Alfar—promises readers an extraordinary journey through diverse worlds of imagination, magic, and profound human experiences.
Moon Sun Stars: Selected Stories by Dean Francis Alfar
A central figure in the Philippine speculative fiction movement, Dean Francis returns with Moon Sun Stars: Selected Stories by Dean Francis Alfar–a curated anthology spanning two decades of his award- winning work.
The book features a galaxy of selected stories, from urban folklore to interstellar mythology, encompassing poignant reflections on love and longing, tales of desire and fierce resolve, and glimpses of legends old and new. Available in softbound edition, this 224-page volume is hailed as “enchanting and unexpected.”
Award-winning author Victor Fernando R. Ocampo praises the collection: “Dean Francis Alfar’s stories masterfully blend the fantastical and the familiar, reinventing Philippine folklore with futuristic visions and surreal twists.”
Jason Erik Lundberg, bestselling author, adds: “Moon Sun Stars comes at the perfect time in Dean’s illustrious career, assembling the very best of his short stories over the past two decades within a new and exciting framework. I envy the reader encountering Alfar's fiction for the first time; prepare to be enchanted and amazed.”
Doomsday Dance Party by Nikki Alfar
In Doomsday Dance Party, Nikki Alfar brings her signature wit and warmth to a collection that explores what happens when the world comes to an end. Whether it’s a precog roommate trying to stave off the apocalypse, or a dragon-slaying ex crashing back into one’s life, Alfar writes with humor, heart, and just the right amount of bite.
The book contains 16 stories that lead to scenarios where Armageddon approaches, personal worlds end, and warrior princesses grapple with their destinies. Sometimes, as Alfar suggests, “you just gotta dance about it.” Here the author weaves personal experiences and historical events into her narratives, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling that resonates with readers.
Ellen Kushner, Locus, Mythopoeic, and World Fantasy Award-winning writer, performer, and cultural maven, raves: "I love the stories! Nikki Alfar really is a marvel."
Fragile Magics by Ryo Alfar
Ryo Alfar—in his stunning debut novel Fragile Magics—unleashes a vibrant, high-stakes adventure across fantastical lands in a 432-page volume. Following three young magic-wielders through paper- folded spells and flying cards, Ryo crafts a richly imagined world pulsing with emotion, identity, and transformation.
Praised for his rising brilliance, Ryo’s voice signals a bold new generation in Philippine speculative fiction literature. Alma Anonas-Carpio, editorial lead at San Anselmo Press Pamphlet Series, commends the work: “Ryo Alfar's writing blasts me into space, for it has grown and matured so well that I call dibs on being the first to publish this brilliant author's work. You can't put a good writer down, and you cannot deny greatness as it grows, either. This novel is proof of that.”
These three new books mark an exciting chapter for Vibal Foundation’s Paradox imprint which offers readers “the fruits of unfettered imagination.” Under the editorial guidance of Filipino Critics Circle Chairman and Editor-at-Large Dean Francis Alfar, Paradox celebrates Filipino creativity, simultaneously anchored in the here and now while soaring to far-flung futures and diving deep into the mythic past.
“This launch highlights the unique literary voices of our remarkable writers united by their love of story and speculative imagination,” said Gelo Lopez, Vibal’s Chief Product Officer. “Our new Paradox books also showcase the breadth and depth of speculative fiction, inviting readers to explore the boundless creativity of the Alfars—a truly remarkable literary family.”
About Vibal Foundation, Inc.
Founded in 2007 as the corporate philanthropy arm of Vibal Group Inc., Vibal Foundation’s advocacy is to nurture Filipino readers and help them access Philippine culture and heritage through diverse channels such as literacy programs, open knowledge websites, printed books, and most recently, digital media platforms. The Foundation’s catalog engages Filipinos in more intellectual discussions, authored by distinguished writers and experts who are passionate about Filipino culture and heritage.
Vibal’s books are available on Shopee, Lazada, Vibal’s online shopping portal, and at the bookstores of Fine Philippine Books at Lucky Chinatown Mall, Ramada Hotel in Binondo, and Casa Vallejo in Baguio, with more stores set to open in the coming months.
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