Last November 29, young readers, aspiring writers, and book lovers gathered online for Bahay Turo’s Meet & Learn session with young Filipino fantasy author Y Alcazaren—and what an inspiring hour it was.
At just 13, Y has already written multiple novels, including The Five Dragons series and the newly launched Thornsong: The Lantern Bearer. Her session centered on one simple but powerful idea:
Reading fuels imagination—and imagination sparks writing.
During the interview, Y shared how her love for stories began early, long before she ever dreamed of becoming an author. Exposed to books as a toddler, she devoured everything from picture books to fantasy epics, carrying stories with her like old friends. She spoke about how reading expands vocabulary, builds literary instinct, and teaches rhythm, structure, conflict, and character.
But what stood out most was this:
“You can’t edit a blank page,” Y reminded young writers.
Just begin—and let creativity find you.
She also revealed her writing quirks—drafts living in Google Docs, a preferred font and spacing, and the habit of re-reading favorite books over and over until entire passages live in memory. Her eyes sparkled when she talked about worldbuilding, atmospheric prose, and characters whose voices linger long after the final chapter.
Viewers asked questions about writing slumps, inspiration, and their own kids’ interest in books. One of the strongest takeaways was this:
Environment matters more than pressure.
Y’s love for stories flourished simply because books were always within reach.
The session ended with an interactive storytelling activity where participants imagined falling into a book—exactly the kind of spark we hope young writers carry forward.
To everyone who joined, thank you for celebrating stories with us. Thank you, Bahay Turo and Teacher Bea, for the wonderful discussion!
May each book you open bring you closer to the story only you can write.