The Monkey and the Turtle: A Filipino Folktale Storytelling

This interactive storytelling session introduces children to Philippine folklore through “The Monkey and the Turtle”, one of the stories in Filipino Folktales for Children by Zarah C. Gagatiga. Young readers are invited to experience a Filipino folktale not only as a story to enjoy, but also as a starting point for reflection, curiosity, conversation, and connection.

After a read-aloud activity by Zarah, participants will explore the story through four simple movements: Read; Reflect; Wonder; and Grow Together.

Children are encouraged to notice the characters and their choices, connect the story with their own experiences, ask questions and explore different perspectives, and consider how stories can help us understand ourselves and care for others.

The session also offers Filipino children growing up in Singapore an opportunity to encounter a story connected to their cultural heritage, while inviting children from other backgrounds to discover Philippine folklore through a shared reading experience.

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📖 The Monkey and the Turtle: A Filipino Folktale Storytelling

📅 Friday, 18 December 2026

🕒 2:00–3:00 pm

📍 Stories Come Alive Room, Harbourfront Library
(Located at 1 Harbourfront Walk, VivoCity, #03-05)

👧 4 to 8-year-olds

📚 Interactive Storytelling

✍️ Zarah C. Gagatiga is a school librarian, storyteller, literacy coach and award-winning author from the Philippines. Her published works include Filipino Folktales for Children, Tales from the 7000 Isles, Dear Nanay, My Daddy! My One and Only! and more. Zarah loves coffee, sunsets, and creating pottery.

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We encourage guests to arrive 10–15 minutes before the session begins, allowing time to settle in and explore the author's books before the event starts.