Bea’s Balikbayan Box of Treasures
Written by Christine Alemshah
Illustrated by Dream Chen
Published by Free Spirit Publishing
The story of a Filipina-American girl who packs a box full of treasures for her relatives in the Philippines
For seven-year-old Bea, a box can be a bear cave, a playhouse, or even a rocket ship. In Bea’s Balikbayan Box of Treasures, Bea’s box has an important destiny. She and her family will fill it up with goodies for their relatives in the Philippines. A balikbayan box is the ultimate international care package and an expression of love for many Filipino families living abroad. Bea and her family spend months gathering and packing surprises. Special food for Tito Rico. Fancy lotion for Tita Alma. For Maribel and the other pinsans, the best treasures of all—bubble wands, chocolates, stuffed animals.
When the package has been shipped, Bea waits patiently for it to arrive overseas—it could take two whole months! Meanwhile, she learns about the balikbayan tradition and how it helps sustain her connection to her far-away family. Finally, Bea’s family gets a video call from Tito Rico, Tita Alma, and Bea’s pinsan, Maribel, and they connect over the excitement of unpacking the box.
Key Features
- Introduces the important Filipino tradition of “balikbayan box” care packages
- Tells the story of a Filipina-American girl who learns to embrace her heritage and family activities
- Encourages connection with family living overseas for families who have immigrated
Alongside Bea, young readers can discover a sense of belonging, practice empathy, and build self-awareness.
Primary ISBN: 9798885546416
Publication Date: July 2025
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 05 or older
Community Represented: Filipino/Filipino American
Themes: Cultural Empowerment, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Celebrations & Traditions, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Family, Family Relationship: Extended, Family Relationship: Grandparents, Family Relationship: Parents, Family Separation: Different Immigration Status, Generation: 2nd, Identity: Multiracial, Own Voices/Lived Experience
Setting: United States (California)
Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 2nd Generation
Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience
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