Maria Orosa: Freedom Fighter, Scientist and Inventor from the Philippines

by Norma Olizon-Chikiamco, Mark Ramsel N. Salvatus III (Illustrator)

"As a food scientist, she sought to reduce the Philippines' dependence on imported food, pioneering new ways to use local products. And that was before she became a war hero." -- New York Times

This delightful children's book follows the life of Maria Orosa--a pioneering woman scientist who studied food science in the United States then returned to a war-torn Philippines and created super-nutritious foods to help her nation in a time of crisis.

A champion of native products from her homeland, Orosa is celebrated for her daring war exploits as well as her scientific inventions. Today she is honored and remembered
This book celebrates the life and achievements of a daring daughter of the Philippines, war heroine, culinary scientist and bold freedom fighter who helped to feed the nation!

Genres: Biography, Picture Books, Nonfiction, Childrens, Stem, Food

32 pages, Hardcover

Published May 2, 2023

About the author

Norma Olizon-Chikiamco is an award-winning Filipino author, journalist, and food writer. She is known for her children's books, including the Palanca Award-winning Pan de Sal Saves the Day, as well as numerous cookbooks.

Chikiamco has written for various publications in the Philippines and received an Outstanding Journalism Award from the Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce.

Reviews

[Earl]

I was excited when I saw there was going to be another picture book of an overlooked Filipino figure. More, please. I enjoyed learning about Maria Orosa and her contributions to science and military morale. I'll definitely see if there are more media about her.

The only reason why I didn't give this book a higher rating- although 3 stars is above average no matter how you look at it- is that the text was a bit dry.

Includes a cookie recipe at the back.

[Jenny]

Maria Orosa was a food scientist. She used hollow tubes of bamboo to sneak food to prisoners of war. She created ingenious recipes using local plants to help her fell Filipinos. I had never heard of her, so I loved reading about her.

*Great for discussing perseverance and also being a self-directed learner.

[Andréa]

Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through Edelweiss.

[Melanie Gaum]

I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through Edelweiss.