PUBLISHED
THE SEAMTRESS WITH THE SAMPAGUITA FLOWERS
BY AURORA CASTILLO PULIDO
STORY DESCRIPTION
In 1959, Sangley Point in Cavite, Philippines, is a naval station of the United States of America that was built for communication purposes, at the same time, a hospital facility.
Dr. Kenneth Lewis, an American doctor, is stationed there with his wife, while Teresa Reyes is a young Filipina widow who makes a living as a seamstress to save money for her daughter’s education and future. Somehow, the lives of these four people get intertwined because of a tragedy and connected by an unlikely reason—the sampaguita, which is the national flower of the Philippines.
This is where it all started—the unspoken feelings and the unrequited love of 30 years that will outlast distance and silence.
pHP375
pAPERBACK
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Book Size: 8.5 x 5.5 inches
Cover: Full-color cover with matte lamination
Inside Pages: Black and white printing on white paper
Number. of Pages: 136
With free bookmark (full-color with matte lamination)
ISBN 978-621-8232-13-6 (paperback)
COMING SOON TO
400+ copies sold
milestones
BOOK SELLING
Over 400 printed copies of the book have been sold. Congratulations to the authors! A milestone reached and very much deserved!
BOOK SELLING
The author sold her books and merchandise during the #YouShouldBeWriting event at Estancia at Capitol Commons last November 4, 2023.
BOOKstore SELLING
Copies of the book are sold at select National Bookstore branches in Metro Manila.
NOMINATION
This book was nominated by HS Grafik Print (Publisher) in the Filipino Readers' Choice Awards 2022, Romance in English Category.
nomination
The publisher, HS Grafik Print, nominated this book in the 39th National Book Awards, Best in Short Fiction, category.
us BOOKstore SELLING
Copies of the book were sold at the iconic Eastwind Books of Berkeley in Berkeley, California, USA, which is Bay Area’s “go-to bookstore for Asian American and Ethnic Studies literature since 1982.”
book fair selling
This book was showcased at the very first Philippine Book Fair in 2023. Paperback copies were sold at the Savage Mind Booth.
us book fair participation
The book was part of the ALA Annual Washington, DC Conference & Exhibition 2022, the world's biggest library event.
us public library
The book is available at the San Francisco Public Library (100 Larkin Street, San Francisco CA, USA).
videos
get to know the book author
Photos by Aurora Castillo Pulido and Paula Abiog
REVIEWS
"The Seamstress with the Sampaguita Flowers is a story focusing on Kenneth, an American doctor stationed in post-war Sangley Point, and Teresa, the titular seamstress. This book takes you back to a bygone era of peace and simplicity. It's a slow-paced, comfortable walk alongside the characters in their personal journeys. Most of all, it's a story of two people and their tender, hidden feelings that blossom with purity, like the sampaguita flowers that connect and tie them together. A good addition to the collection of readers who want a quick, simple fix of romance."
Mark Manalang
Journalist, Author of The Secret of Derek Guerrero
“I just finished reading your book. I am so in love with the story. It is so addicting, in a good way. The minute I started reading, I couldn’t put the book down. I like how the story goes, how it transitions beautifully. I am so proud of you, Auntie. Thanks too for the special mention in the acknowledgment part. I am just so happy for you. I don’t know why but I can’t stop smiling.”
Mai Blancaflor-Austria
Niece of the author, Philippines
“Baby, I am watching your interview finally without interruption via YouTube. Watched it several times via Facebook with so many interruptions. Not so happy that I could not see you so well on Facebook. YouTube is much better on TV. Considering that this is the first interview you are having in relation to you being a writer and now an author, you were able to clearly convey the message and your experiences to encourage aspiring writers who are still unsure of themselves to follow their dreams. Very inspiring! The interview went well. You are articulate and concise. You promoted your book very well. We all can’t wait to read your book. Great job, Baby.”
Ellen Santos
USA
"I love it. It is a beautiful, simple love story, told in a beautiful, simple way. The sampaguita as symbol of the pure, unspoken love between two people who seemed like star-crossed lovers, but whom fate eventually brought together, is delicately haunting. The book is beautiful, especially the cover. Love the colors and the sampaguitas! Congratulations! Do congratulate the cover designer. This one is really beautiful and tasteful."
Ms. Marionette Ocampo-Martinez
Former English College Professor at St. Paul University of Manila and Dean of Liberal Arts
"Just finished reading your book—unable to put it down. I was filled with nostalgia of how it was growing up in our province—close knit families, kindness, and concern of people. You were successful in interspersing history with your story, as well as describing the picturesqueness of the province and Tagaytay in our younger years before the population has increased and infrastructures built. Can’t help swoon over such pure love—for a while, I was hopeful it was a real-life love story. Congratulations! I am looking forward to more creative writing from you. I am so happy for you and proud of you, my dear friend/classmate. Keep pounding on your computer for more. Hugs."
Delia Sayoc
Philippines
“If there will be a Filipino adaptation of the Japanese hit anime movie, Kimi no Na wa, I will gladly pair up the two cover models of the The Seamstress with the Sampaguita Flowers (by Aurora Castillo Pulido) and Nobody's Adventure (by yours truly). Aside from the fact that both of them look great together (because of the talikod pose), I felt that the vibe of the past meets the present (future) while looking at the two amazing book covers. Should I write such complicated, time-defying plot? Do we have that in the Philippines? Thoughts? Hahahahaha! By the way, both are still available and excited to be read. So, please grab your copies now. PM is the key!”
Ric Eldrid I. Pabico
Author of Nobody’s Adventure and Nobody’s Adventure II Courage
"The Seamstress with the Sampaguita Flowers is a story focusing on Kenneth, an American doctor stationed in post-war Sangley Point, and Teresa, the titular seamstress. This book takes you back to a bygone era of peace and simplicity. It's a slow-paced, comfortable walk alongside the characters in their personal journeys. Most of all, it's a story of two people and their tender, hidden feelings that blossom with purity, like the sampaguita flowers that connect and tie them together. A good addition to the collection of readers who want a quick, simple fix of romance."
Mark Manalang
Journalist, Author of The Secret of Derek Guerrero
“I just finished reading your book. I am so in love with the story. It is so addicting, in a good way. The minute I started reading, I couldn’t put the book down. I like how the story goes, how it transitions beautifully. I am so proud of you, Auntie. Thanks too for the special mention in the acknowledgment part. I am just so happy for you. I don’t know why but I can’t stop smiling.”
Mai Blancaflor-Austria
Niece of the author, Philippines
“Ate Auring, I just finished reading your book. I like and love it. A very splendid and amazing love story of two people from a different world with a lot of surprises and secrecy, which I love most. It also features Filipino traditions, cultures, and history as well. I can say it focuses on all aspects for the satisfaction of readers, including myself. The establishment of a foundation for the benefit of students and also seniors is also awesome. Ate Auring, you're a great author and I am proud of you. Looking forward to another book of yours. The book also has nice illustrations/creative arts, especially the book cover and the content as well. Beautiful! Stay safe and God Bless."
Loly Espiritu Leque
Cousin of the author, Noveleta, Cavite, Philippines
"It’s been a while and it’s good to be back! I read this book months ago and pardon for being MIA. (You know, life. 😅)
I’m just proud to say that this is a work of a Filipino author. I love how the story weaved in my heart. I’m a sucker for soap opera-ish kind of story.
#theseamstresswiththesampaguitaflowers will make you travel back in 1959 and will make your heart flutter because it will feel like you’re about to witness your grandparent’s love story! (I really wish I have my grands story printed in a book too)
Though it was a short read, 125 pages to be exact, I wanted more. The author indulged me by writing “to be continued” at the end of the chapter. I’ll be waiting for the next book!"
Graceinbooklit
Via Instagram, Philippines
“Reading the book, The Seamstress with the Sampaguita Flowers, brought me back some memories. It made me reminisce about the past, especially [about the] places mentioned that do actually exist in real life, like Sangley Point in Cavite City. It felt like I was right there when the story was happening. I liked how the scent of the Sampaguita flowers played an important role throughout the story. Overall, I can say that their love is like this PANDEMIC. They had to go through difficult times but in the long run, everything will be okay. I am so glad and proud to be the sister of the author. Can’t wait to read your future novels.”
Floring Castillo Blancaflor
Sister of the author, Philippines
"The story was well-written, intriguing, captivating, and a delight to read. It highlighted the emotion felt when you find the special someone and then fall madly in love. As I continue to read, I felt like I was watching the event unfolding right before my eyes, experiencing all the emotions that go with it—like pain, loneliness, longing, sadness. You have truly captured the essence of life and love, Baby. I truly enjoyed reading the book. You have the gift that most of us wish we had. The gift of being able to tell a story and put it in writing. Continue writing, Baby. Follow your dreams. Now we all know that dreams come true. Can’t wait to read the sequel to your book, The Seamstress with the Sampaguita Flowers. Good luck and congratulations on a job well done."
Elena Santos
USA
“I really enjoyed reading your book. Liked how you incorporated bits of Philippine history so readers can better understand Pinoy culture and psyche. You also took me back on a nostalgic tour of growing up in the Philippines—going to the market for fresh meat and produce versus the supermarket; having a seamstress make the clothes versus RTW (ready to wear); the very integral part faith and the church play in our lives, and the very close-knit and supportive family unit Pinoys have that sustain us through the darkest times. I love that Teresa is strong and resilient to overcome poverty and agonizing loss to achieve her life goals. She deserves a Dr. Kenneth in her life. Looking forward to the sequel.”
Dulce Pinellas
Senior Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Retired, Kaiser Regional Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
“Your newfound career is really amazing. Finally, I finished reading your book. I’m very impressed with the writing style. Every author has his/her own style of writing and definitely you established your narrative style. Looking forward to reading your next book. It’s a story of love, not only the romantic love of the lead characters but also honest and honorable love between friends and families. The unconditional love and support they provide each other without expecting anything back in return. Hopefully, this kind of love won’t die, not only among Filipinos but the entire humanity.”
Brenda Cabacoy
Retired Clinical Laboratory Scientists Manager, Kaiser Regional Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
“The other night, Nelson was reading it aloud. Will finish the book first. Maganda siya, ma’am. Naiintriga ako sa dressmaker hehehe. I don’t know what happened pa. Very vivid sa akin ang description niya ng jeepneys natin noong araw. Start pa lang po kasi nabasa ni Nelson. Will ask him to read it again later. I love it when he reads aloud kasi may hand gestures siya at nag-iiba yung tone ng voice niya. Thanks, ma’am!”
Dr. Nelson and Dr. Nelia Llanto
Philippines
“What a beautiful book! Feeling in love with the gentleness and selflessness of Dr. Lewis and what a love story! I love Teresa and Elizabeth. The priest Fr. Juan was also instrumental. Every time I will see a sampaguita flower, I will get reminded of this beautiful love story. Thank you again for making me feel young at heart. You are gifted, Baby. Made me forget my problems and the pandemic. Love you, Baby. Will await your next book. Much love."
Chato Marquez
Philippines
"The story is exciting. Once you start reading, there is no chance of stopping. I love how the author described the different time settings and made me experience the less crowded Tagaytay in her plot. When I found out that some people behind the design and publishing of this book are related, I was amazed! What a talented family! A reading her book, I will add sampaguita in my garden.”
Davie Dee Tan
Philippines
“Hi, Baby, just finished reading your book. Beautifully written and romantic. Great job. Happy for you. My wife is reading it now. Congratulations, Baby on your beautiful book. It's well written and has a lot of history, romantic tales, drama, and surprises. I endorse it strongly. Happy for you!"
Dr. Osias Diaz
New York, USA
“The Seamstress with the Sampaguita Flowers is very well written and chronicled. I love your style. Very descriptive. I could almost visualize everything as if I was watching it on stage. Remember when radio dramas were the "in" thing in the olden days? You just have to use your imagination. I also love that you didn't use highfalutin words. I didn't have to Google or consult the dictionary for any word foreign to me. Plot is clear. Story, so romantic. Are you sure Dr. Kenneth was not your first love?
It was very kind of you to make sure that prints are large enough for people with poor vision like me. Will be waiting for the sequel or perhaps your travel/scarf stories? By the way, the sampaguita flowers are so you—fresh, sweet, demure, and fragrant. My very dear friend, you are not only an author but a historian as well You messaged the group if we can critique. Sorry, my friend, I don't know how to. My wish for you? It's written on my shirt."
Minerva Villena
USA
“Hi Auring, I salute you for your achievement and I’m really glad that you are doing well. I just ordered your book from Lazada and to tell you honestly, I’m so excited to receive it on or before March 8 (maybe excited to see my name).
Thank you for your love and compassion for our hometown. Hope to see you soon. My best regards. I got your book today and as I’ve mentioned, I’m so excited to read it. I ordered a few more copies para ma-i-share ko rin sa iba and book mo.”
Munding Del Rosario
Vice Mayor of Tanza, Cavite, Philippines
“Got a chance finally to watch your interview. You looked very classy with your scarf and talked very naturally about your writing and book. It was very you! Hope the interview generates more sales of your book. A simple story of unselfish love from the hero spanning decades which the readers would wish they were the recipients of. Adding local colors into the novella makes for an interesting insight into Philippine culture, especially for readers not familiar with it, while for Philippine readers, it paints familiar scenes and may bring forth their own experiences."
Mary Jane Gregory
USA
“Of course, Baby! I want to read, know, and feel every slightest detail of your book. That’s why it’s not a speed reading. It’s reading with love and devotion!!! Glad you enjoyed our conversation last night. To be continued when we get the chance. Please let us know the date and time of your live interview.”
Thelma San Andres
USA
"Just finished my fourth reading of "The Seamstress with the Sampaguita Flowers" by Aurora Castillo Pulido. This book takes you back to a bygone era of peace and simplicity. It's a slow-paced, comfortable walk alongside the characters in their personal journeys. Most of all, it's a story of two people and their tender, hidden feelings that blossom in purity, like that sampaguita flowers that connect and tie them together."
Mark Manalang
Philippines
“I read your book in one sitting the day I received it. Couldn’t put it down because I want to know what happened to Teresa and Kenneth. It was so romantic! Nakakakilig! Teresa showed the Filipina trait of suppressing her feelings for the doctor. He, on the other hand, respected Teresa the way he knew how. As I said, it was so romantic and poignant. I like it!!! Congratulations again.”
Emma Tolentino
USA
“Loved your book. It educated me about the history of Cavite. I‘m sure it will be very popular and in demand in the Philippines. Might even be a movie someday!”
Fe Dela Cruz
USA
“I finished reading ur book. Ang lalim na ng brain mo. Ang ganda ng love story. Yung sampaguita flower na gamit mo. Congrats. Very nice. Next book in the making na ba."
Blandina Santos
Philippines
“Congratulations! It was spontaneous, I love it when you immediately followed after John uttered the word destiny...wow! This interview will gather momentum and I have a feeling you will have a sequel to work on.”
Reinita Santos
Philippines
About the author
Aurora Castillo Pulido was born and raised in the Philippines. After graduating from St. Paul College Manila with a degree in nursing, she migrated to the USA where she still lives near her children and grandkids. She obviously loves books, flowers, and traveling and has visited at least 30 countries and hoping to do more. This is her first try to explore the world of writing. This is her first novella. You can email the author at aauroraac@yahoo.com.
The Seamstress with the Sampaguita Flowers
Philippine Copyright © 2020 by Aurora Castillo Pulido
Names, characters, places, and events are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Space and time have been rearranged to suit the convenience of the book. Any resemblance to historical events, places, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher or author.
Published by HS Grafik Print
Published by HS Grafik Print
Cover Art: Ding Flores and Anne Eustaquio
Inside Illustration: Homer Eustaquio
First Editor & Designer: Kath C. Eustaquio-Derla
Second Editor: Paula Bianca Abiog
Proofreader: Sol C. Eustaquio
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