On October 27, 2018, authors, artists, teachers, students and literature enthusiasts gathered to attend the very first Pista! (Pambansang Komperensiya sa Panitikang Pambata), sponsored by Lampara Publishing House, Inc. The event was directed by writer-teacher China Patria de Vera and award-winning author Dr. Eugene Y. Evasco.Keynote speakers were Dr. Rosario Torres-Yu who discussed regional children's literature, Mr. Segundo Matias, Jr. who talked about his recently released Young Adult novel "Mga Batang Poz" and award-winning author Wilfredo Pascual with his topic about the children's literature in Asia and Africa.
There were four parallel sessions by 17 speakers who discussed regional children's literature, sexuality, gender-based stories, and the significance of reading to children.
Five masterclasses were additionally opened to the participants. Masterclass on Writing Children's Book by writer Becky Bravo, illustrating children's books by Prof. Ruben de Jesus, and Creating Comics with Black Ink artists Herbs Navasca and Jake Vicente. A masterclass on Writing Young Adult stories was also opened and graced by Rebel Fiction author Luna King and the first champ of Lampara Prize Young Adult Story Writing Contest, Steno Padilla. The masterclass was finished by LGBT-Themed story writers Leonna and Nina Satomi from Pride Lit.
Consistent with its name, Pista! (Pambansang Komperensiya sa Panitikang Pambata) was a true fiesta. The day was loaded up with new information, and awareness concerning children's literature and reading.
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