Novels: His First, Her Last: The Incredible True Story of an American Lost in the Philippines

Story by: Jonathan Sturak

Pendan Publishing
(3/5 ★★★☆☆)

A story based on the actual experiences by the writer on the Filipino culture, traditions and even some of the problems that the country have. It gives another perspective to a life in the Philippines through the eyes of a tourist.

Jason Stefanik, the main character of the story, deals with the strange culture the Philippines has to offer. Such example to that is the Filipino's habit of saying "nosebleed" if they converse with too much English. Then there's also the beauty that the Filipino's have in their genes that most of its citizens appears to be younger looking. This was observed among a group of nurses or nursing students that were mistaken for a group of high school students. The novel also takes into account the negative side of the country. Such as the health care system, especially since I'm assuming that he might have been admitted in a government hospital that is poorly funded. There's also the justice system, in which for a crime of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, multiple physical injuries, and damage to property the maximum penalty that can be carried out is six months in jail. Although I'm not much versed in the accuracy of the penalty that can be imposed on such crimes, in my opinion it is a bit light especially since the incident resulted in the death of an individual. The main character, as the story progresses, becomes a bit more likable especially since his image started out to be a mother's boy who complained practically about anything and rushes on the time he can finally get back to America. It is from that image that he transforms into a very determined and loving boyfriend that will do everything to look for his love one, no matter what happens. He does this despite the current condition his body is after the accident.

The novel provides some good tips on how to be a "smart" tourist in the Philippines and at the same it also illustrates some of the tourist attractions that can be on your to see list, such as Intramuros. It also gives a few "must know" for a tourist new to the culture that the country has. The story of Jason's adventure is an interesting insight and narration of the experiences that the author had. Amidst the bad experience that he had due to the accident, Sturak still manages to come up with a story that talks about love and hope despite the tragedy that takes place in a country rich with heritage.

The writer can be seen at:

www.sturak.com