#theguambus

(Cover, and 2 sample pages from the book)

“Sumahi and the Karabao”

Written By: Michael Lujan Bevacqua

Illustrated By: Jack Lujan Bevacqua

The 1st book that the Guam Bus proudly presents is something that has been in the works for some time but finally came into fruition this past year. “Sumahi and the Karabao“ is a children’s book that stars Sumahi, the protagonist in the story and the aptly named daughter of the author in real life, a young girl who is serenaded by the stories of her Karabao friends. Using charming digitally art and a fictional narrative marinated with historical truths and flavor, “Sumahi and the Karabao,” is a perfect book for a Guam audience, or someone who wants to learn about the culture of the Island. 

The book is also bilingual, it is in Chamorro/English. The author is a professor at the University of Guam, and is in charge of the Chamorro Studies Program. Much like his job title suggests, he is a big advocate for the Chamorro language. Using the language in fun and imaginative ways, and accessible for the younger generation, is a way to interest the people in what would some call a “dying” language. There is always time to ebb this flow though, and get people more interested in the local dichotomy, and we believe it is creating art like this.

The book can be ordered through this link: http://guambus.bigcartel.com/product/sumahi-and-the-karabao

For people on Guam interested in books please contact us at [email protected] and we can setup a time and place to meet for orders.

Hafa Adai and Welcome to the Guam Bus!

On this site, we plan to share all creative matters done by us, whether it be children’s books, Graphic Novels, Mystery Detective stories, etc. The two things that tie all of it together is the creative team and the fact we want to include Guam and the Pacific as the hosts to these stories. Much like Maori community in New Zealand, we in the Guam Bus yearn for tales in the media and the print that feature the region, not to solely rely on Hollywood or these huge Western corporations for entertainment. We believe this can be done by local artists creating original content, of all different of genres,  and we are here to do our part.

Expect formal posts describing and advertising our books, and where you can obtain it. The above image is taken from “Sumahi and the Karabao,” a children’s book written by Michael L. Bevacqua and artwork done by Jack Lujan Bevacqua. Features a fantastical tale about the author’s daughter and the adventures Carabao’s have/had in Guam’s tumultuous history.