Written by: Francisco Arcellana
Illustrated by: Hermes Alegre

Ten Best Books of 1995, The Philippine Daily Inquirer
Winner, 1995 National Book Award for Children’s Literature

Marcelina's father comes home from a trip to the province with a bundle of sleeping mats for his family. Each mat has the child's name woven into it. Each mat is designed to suit the child's personality.
But there are three more mats left in Papa's bundle...
In this landmark adaptation for children, National Artist for Literature Francisco Arcellana's classic story "The Mats" remains as fresh and powerful as when it first appeared ore than fifty years ago. The mats serve as a metaphor for the bittersweet mix of love, laughter, and loss woven into the fabric of everyday life. Hermes Alegre's palette illuminates each scene with brilliant splashes of color sure to make this book a lasting treasure to be shared by the entire family. 

National Artist for Literature Francisco Arcellana’s 1938 classic short story “The Mats” speaks of love, laughter, and loss in a dazzling picture book for the entire family.

“One of the most gorgeous children’s books ever made.” — Sunday Inquirer Magazine

“Incomparable… one of the great artifacts of Philippine culture.” —Nick Joaquin

“A daring publishing venture… One finishes the book shaken by the surprise ending, but grateful for the invitation to talk to one’s child about the reality of loss and the durability of love.” —Rina Jimenez-David, Philippine Daily Inquirer

Size: 9.25 x 10.25 in
ISBN: 978-971-630-040-6
Year Published: 1995