Young Pinoy writer in Riyadh launches third book

Riyadh-based Filipino Nigel Willem Canlapan may not be old enough to order alcoholic beverages at a bar, at least in his home country, but he already has three published books under his name.

Last February 21, Manila-born Canlapan, 14, released his latest book, “Craig Smith Back Flip,” at the Philippine Embassy in Saudi Arabia.

The book, which is about an 18-year-old boy who is about to discover his hidden strength in order to defeat his enemies, follows “Snowstorm, the Wolf” (2009) and “Snowstorm and the Bond” (2010).

According to the author, he imagined himself being like the main character and decided to write a story about it.

The launching was attended by Canlapan's family, friends and schoolmates, as well as his mentor at the Multinational School in Riyadh, who has been with him since his younger days.

Vice Consul Maria Angelica Genotiva attended the book launch. In her inspirational message, she mentioned how important it is for young Filipinos to have interest and love for reading because reading will help them in writing well and in acquiring other skills in life.

There was a book signing after the program, with the guests, including children, lining up to have their books signed by the author.

Aside from writing, Canlapan also excels in sports and in performing arts.

In his Facebook page, Canlapan described himself as a “bookworm by nature” who “enjoys reading science fiction, suspense, thriller and other general information books/material.”

He said he is also “fond of reading comic books and surfing the internet.”

The name "Nigel" was taken from the British Chess Grandmaster, Nigel Short, while "Willem" was coined from a very well-known Renaissance painter, Vincent Willem van Gogh, according to Canlapan's Facebook page. — KBK, GMA News