Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade 
Alila, Our Little Philippine Cousin 

In ‘Alila, Our Little Philippine Cousin’ by Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade, readers are transported to early 20th-century Philippines through the eyes of a young Filipino girl named Alila. The book presents a vivid depiction of customs, traditions, and daily life in the Philippines, providing valuable insights into the culture of the region. Wade’s writing style is engaging and educational, making the book suitable for both children and adults interested in learning about different cultures. The literary context of the book reflects a time when there was a growing fascination with exotic lands and peoples, making ‘Alila’ a valuable contribution to the genre of cultural children’s literature. Wade’s attention to detail and descriptive language help bring the setting to life for readers, ensuring an immersive reading experience. Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade, a prolific author of children’s books, was known for her ability to create engaging and culturally relevant stories for young readers. Her background as an educator and her interest in diverse cultures likely influenced her decision to write ‘Alila, Our Little Philippine Cousin’. I highly recommend this book to readers of all ages who are interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines through the eyes of a young protagonist. Wade’s work serves as both entertainment and education, making it a valuable addition to any reader’s collection.

Sobre el autor

Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade, an American author born in 1860, was an influential figure in the literary circle of children’s education and cultural literature during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Wade’s passionate embrace of cultural diversity and her commitment to children’s literature is evident in her works that sought to enlighten young minds about the wider world. ‘Alila, Our Little Philippine Cousin’ is one of the many titles in her ‘Our Little Cousin’ series which sketched vivid portrayals of various cultures through the eyes of child protagonists, thereby pioneering a unique, pedagogical approach to multiculturalism. This particular book reflects an interesting perspective on Filipino life, aiming to provide American children with insights into the customs and daily life in the Philippines. Wade was adept at storytelling, utilizing a literary style tailored to engage children while educating them on international cultures. Her work is characterized by simple yet effective prose, amiable narratives, and an overarching theme of empathy and understanding across cultural divides. Throughout her career, Wade authored more than 50 children’s books, playing a pivotal role in the genre of cultural and geographical education for the youth. Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade passed away in 1936, but her contributions to children’s literature continue to be acknowledged and her books cherished for their educational value and emphasis on global citizenship.