Your Guide to 12 Must-Reads at the Manila International Book Fair 2025

The wait is over. The Manila International Book Fair is now open and will run until September 14, 2025. That’s five days of conventions, meet-and-greets, book talks, and workshops awaiting, along with endless shelves of stories ready to be discovered.

If you’re eyeing a book haul, here’s even better news: everything at the Fully Booked booth will be at least 20% off. That means your long-awaited reads, wish-listed titles, and exciting new releases can finally come home with you at a bargain.

Here are twelve books across different genres you won’t want to miss at MIBF 2025:

Filipino Folktales for Children: Stories of Wisdom and Wonder

By Zarah Gagatiga, Illustrated by Corazon Dandan-Albano

This bilingual picture book retells seven classic Filipino folktales, including The Monkey and the Turtle and Why Chickens Scratch the Ground. Zarah Gagatiga’s engaging prose, paired with Corazon Dandan-Albano’s whimsical watercolor art, makes every story come alive. It’s a delightful way for kids to learn timeless values while celebrating local culture and heritage.

Katabasis

By R.F. Kuang

In this dark academia rivals-to-lovers tale, two undergraduates must journey into hell to save their adviser. Kuang’s sharp storytelling and layered world-building make this one of 2025’s most highly anticipated releases. With thousands of pre-orders already sold, expect this title to fly off shelves quickly.

The Secret of Secrets

By Dan Brown

Robert Langdon returns after eight years in this Prague-set thriller filled with murder, mystery, and hidden symbology. When a lecture takes a deadly turn, Langdon is thrust into a chase that could uncover humanity’s deepest secret. Brown himself calls it his most intricately plotted novel yet, making it a must-grab for fans.

Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo

By Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta

What if Bruce Wayne hadn’t been born into privilege? This bold reimagining of the Dark Knight by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta paints a grittier portrait of Gotham’s hero, blending brains, brawn, and sheer willpower. Released just last August, it promises to reshape how readers see Batman’s origin.

The Book of Bill

By Alex Hirsch

From Gravity Falls creator Alex Hirsch comes this chaotic and puzzle-filled book, “written” by the show’s most infamous villain, Bill Cipher. Ciphers, riddles, and lost journal pages fill its dangerous yet hilarious pages. Fans call it deeply cursed, making it all the more irresistible to add to your shelf.

The Let Them Theory

By Mel Robbins

Mel Robbins’ viral The Let Them Theory has taken social media by storm, teaching readers to stop carrying other people’s drama and opinions. With her signature warmth and no-nonsense style, Robbins lays out a path to emotional freedom and self-empowerment. It’s a simple yet transformative book that has even earned Oprah’s seal of approval.

The Art and Making of Arcane

By Elisabeth Vincentelli

For fans of Arcane, this companion book offers an in-depth look at the award-winning animated series that wrapped its finale in 2024. Packed with breathtaking art, design notes, and behind-the-scenes storytelling, it’s a must-have collector’s item. Relive the drama, artistry, and unforgettable world of Arcane all over again.

Genshin Impact Official Artbook Vol. 1

By miHoYo

This gorgeous hardcover collects artwork and storylines from Genshin Impact up to Version 1.6. Inside are character portraits, costume designs, and commemorative illustrations straight from the beloved open-world RPG. It’s the perfect addition to any Genshin fan’s collection.

How to Make the Best Coffee at Home

By James Hoffman

Coffee and books go hand in hand, and this guide shows you how to brew café-quality drinks right in your kitchen. Hoffman covers everything from equipment and beans to espresso mastery, all explained with clarity and passion. With his tips, you’ll be your own barista in no time.

Accidents Happen

By F.H. Batacan

In this collection of crime and mystery short stories, F.H. Batacan draws readers into worlds where violence, accidental or otherwise, can shatter lives in an instant. Each story is haunting, thought-provoking, and uncomfortably familiar. Batacan hopes it sparks outrage that can lead to real change, no matter how small.

The Thursday Murder Club

By Richard Osman

This witty, clever novel follows four septuagenarians in a retirement village who spend their free time solving cold cases. But when a murder occurs on their doorstep, they find themselves in the middle of their first live investigation. Now streaming as a Netflix original movie, this book is equal parts hilarious and thrilling.

Kagurabachi Vol. 1

By Takeru Hokazono

Perfect for fans of Jujutsu Kaisen, this manga follows Chihiro Rokuhira, a young warrior seeking vengeance after sorcerers murder his father and steal his enchanted blades. With only one sword left, he embarks on a brutal journey filled with sorcery, battles, and heart. Already a hit, it’s also slated for an anime adaptation soon.

Are you going book shopping?

From page-turning thrillers to enchanting children’s tales and stunning artbooks, these twelve titles are just the beginning of what you’ll find at MIBF 2025.

Fully Booked’s 20% discount makes it easier than ever to grow your library and discover stories that will stay with you long after the fair ends.

So grab your tote bags, make your lists, and get ready to bring home the books you’ve been waiting for.

---

Let us know your MIBF finds in the comments.

Do you have a story for the WhenInManila.com Team? Email us at wheninmanila@gmail.com or send us a direct message at WhenInManila.com’s Facebook Page. Interact with the team and join the WhenInManila.com community at WIM Squad, and join our Viber group to stay updated with the latest around the Philippines and beyond!