Filipino-Canadian Author Launches Novel on Reunification of Filipino Caregiver Families in Canada

(Left photo) Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio’s book entitled, “Reuniting with Strangers”. (Right photo) Author Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio (left) poses with Philippine Consulate’s Cultural Officer, Ma. Lyra Ocampo (center), and Mrs. Austria (right) at the book launch held in Vancouver (Vancouver PCG Photo)

VANCOUVER 18 October 2023.  The Philippine Consulate General, represented by Cultural Officer Ma. Lyra Ocampo, attended the launch of Ms. Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio’s debut novel entitled, “Reuniting with Strangers”, held at the Massy Art Society in East Vancouver on 12 October 2023.

“Reuniting With Strangers”, a novel-in-stories published by Douglas & McIntyre, follows the reunification of Filipino caregiver families in Canada. The book further recounts scenes from various locations such as a cliffside town in Tagaytay highlands, Filipino communities in the desert of Osoyoos, and Toronto’s Little Manila.  The author takes her readers into the lives of the Filipino diaspora, revealing their experiences of displacement, estrangement, resilience and healing. 

Filipino-Canadian author Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio was born and raised in Ontario. She draws her inspirations from poet Souvankham Thammavongsa, writer Catherine Hernandez, and novelist Wayson Choy. END

For more information, visit https://www.vancouverpcg.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.vancouverpcg.org, https://www.facebook.com/PHinVancouver, or https://www.instagram.com/phinvancouver/.