I was planning to attend MIBF last year, but unfortunately I was able to go because of Jeniffer E. Smith’s book signing. When the news came out for this year, MIBF, I see to it that I will go, rain or shine.
It was Friday (September 18) afternoon when I went to SMX Convention, Pasay near Mall of Asia. Thank you to Fullybooked for the free tickets! The entrance ticket is 50php.
As soon as I entered the place, I immediately look for the PSICOM booth. Jahric Lago, the author of Anong Klaseng Estudyante Ka? (AKEK) invited me to his book signing (2-5 pm).
As I approached to Jahric's seat, he instantly knew me. He hugged me and he was very happy to see me. He was so nice that he didn’t only sign my books and gave me a tote bag with his first book but everyone received a delicious dessert from him.
My next stop is to find books and I dropped by at PSICOM and National bookstore areas.
Here is my book haul with the new releases which will be out by October! You surely don’t want to miss it!
Last but definitely not the least was a photo op with a celebrity. I don’t usually take a selfie or ask for photo with celebrities, but Meg Imperial was too pretty to resist. That ended my first MIBF with a bang!
Three tips for next year MIBF first timer/s!
1. Go early.
Like what the famous saying is, early bird catches the worm. Because I came in the afternoon, I wasn’t able to check all the booths and books. Next time, I see to it that I’ll go on the first day and exactly the time that the doors will open.
2. Bring a friend.
Honestly, being alone book hoarding is good. Yet it is a book fair and you should have friends with you! It will be easier to search for the books that you want to buy or a friend that can suggest you what you should get or not. Plus taking a photo with celebrities is not going to a struggle.
3. Expect the unexpected.
I thought the venue would be jam packed because it was Friday, but good thing it was not. However, the heavy rain poured down when I was about to go. I had to stay and sadly I was able to purchase more books that I intended to.
I’m looking forward to the 2016 Manila International Book Fair!