When children’s books began circulating in the early 2000s, one striking absence was evident: stories from Mindanao for young readers were nearly nonexistent. Publishers were scarce and tales rooted in local culture were rare. Mary Ann Ordinario noticed this gap and found inspiration unexpectedly from a five-year-old student. “Teacher Ann, I’m tired of fairy tales like Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Sleeping Beauty…Can we have another story? Something about our place, Mindanao?” the child asked. That moment planted the seed for her debut book, “The Crying Trees,” a story about rubber trees weeping sap like tears as they are cut down and the durian fruit, famous across Asia for its pungent smell. The book’s impact was immediate. It debuted at the International Singapore Book Fair, where international publishers took notice. Soon after, “The Crying Trees” won the Grand Prize at the Samsung KidsTime Authors Award during the Asian Festival of Children’s Content (AFCC) in Singapore. For Ordinario, it was a revelation. “I came to realize that Mindanao is truly rich with tales, colors and wisdom that deserve to be heard,” she said. For Ordinario, every story begins with a question: What does this child need today? In a world where children face pressures from social media, environmental anxieties and overwhelming news, she believes stories should guide without preaching. “Lessons like kindness or sharing can be told through magical worlds of talking animals,” she explained. “Grief can be explored through metaphors, like a tree losing its leaves, so that children can process emotions safely.” Her works are deeply rooted in Filipino values and settings, yet they resonate universally. By weaving local folklore, myths and traditions into narratives of love, friendship, hope and courage, she ensures her stories remain relatable both at home and abroad. Since then, Ordinario has authored 58 children’s books. Her books have been translated into Nihongo, Bahasa Melayu, Mandarin, Thai, Russian, Korean, Nepali, Azerbaijani, Bahasa Indonesia and several other languages. “It’s magical to see my stories travel across cultures,” she said. “I’m grateful that they connect with children everywhere, carrying messages that help them think and understand.” Translation, however, brings challenges. International publishers often negotiate rights at competitive prices. Cultural sensitivities sometimes require adjustments. Ordinario collaborates closely with translators, approving layouts and even modifying illustrations to ensure her stories remain respectful and accessible across different countries. What makes a children’s story universal? Ordinario believes it lies in truth. “Look at Winnie the Pooh,” she reflected. “It’s about enduring friendship and love. Those values endure everywhere, regardless of country, culture, or beliefs.” Her own stories aim to shape children’s values and morals. “Through my books, children should learn right from wrong and absorb values like kindness, courage and empathy. That is what the world needs now more than ever.” Among her many works, “The Crying Trees” remains closest to Ordinario’s heart. Beyond being her first book and first international award, she later realized its deeper resonance. The Great Grandfather Tree, who sacrifices himself to save the forest, reminded her of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice — a symbol of compassion and everlasting life. For Filipino writers hoping to reach international audiences, Ordinario offers practical advice. “Choose a universal theme. Promote your book on global digital platforms. And when you write, be sensitive to settings, characters, or names that might offend other countries,” she said. Beyond writing, Ordinario is the founder of the ABC Educational Development Centre in Kidapawan City. She serves on the National Book Development Board (NBDB) of the Philippines. Ordinario shows no signs of slowing down. She is currently working on six new books, including a government-backed project on natural disasters set for release in March 2026. She is also working on a four-part series designed to help children grow into better adults. Her journey proves that children’s literature can be both local and global. By grounding her stories in the richness of Mindanao while embracing universal themes, she has given Filipino children — and children worldwide — tales that inspire, guide and endure.
