Bea's Balikbayan Box of Treasures
Christine Alemshah author Dream Chen illustrator
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Teacher Created Materials, Inc
Published:19th Aug '25
Should be back in stock very soon
The story of a Filipina-American girl who packs a box full of treasures for her relatives in the Philippines
For seven-year-old Bea, a box can be a bear cave, a playhouse, or even a rocket ship. In Bea’s Balikbayan Box of Treasures, Bea’s box has an important destiny. She and her family will fill it up with goodies for their relatives in the Philippines. A balikbayan box is the ultimate international care package and an expression of love for many Filipino families living abroad. Bea and her family spend months gathering and packing surprises. Special food for Tito Rico. Fancy lotion for Tita Alma. For Maribel and the other pinsans, the best treasures of all—bubble wands, chocolates, stuffed animals.
When the package has been shipped, Bea waits patiently for it to arrive overseas—it could take two whole months! Meanwhile, she learns about the balikbayan tradition and how it helps sustain her connection to her far-away family. Finally, Bea’s family gets a video call from Tito Rico, Tita Alma, and Bea’s pinsan, Maribel, and they connect over the excitement of unpacking the box.
Key Features
- Introduces the important Filipino tradition of “balikbayan box” care packages
- Tells the story of a Filipina-American girl who learns to embrace her heritage and family activities
- Encourages connection with family living overseas for families who have immigrated
Alongside Bea, young readers can discover a sense of belonging, practice empathy, and build self-awareness.
Filipina-American author Christine Alemshah brings culture and connection to life in Bea’s Balikbayan Box of Treasures.
2025 Best Book Award Winner, Children's Picture Book: Hardcover Fiction & a 2026 Librarian Favorite! An APALA 2025 Best of the Best book.
"This gentle story, informative and appealing in equal measure, celebrates a loving tradition that links family and friends across great distances . . . a touching story, replete with cultural detail and built-in curricular extensions."
* School Library Journal *"A touching celebration of cultural identity and familial connection . . . a welcome addition to everyone's bookshelf." * Readers' Favorite *
"Alemshah introduces us to the joy and Filipino tradition of sending packages and connecting families across the sea. Complemented by bold and colorful illustrations." * Children's Bookwatch, Midwest Book Review *
"Christine Alemshah captures the meaning behind Filipinos sending a balikbayan box back home, while Dream Chen's art evokes colorful playfulness. Christine even goes beyond the story and encourages readers to create new ways to enjoy the box by using their imagination and creativity. Just like Bea's balikbayan box, this story will fill your heart with love." -- Lynnor Bontigao, author-illustrator of Sari-Sari Summers
"For families who have immigrated and long to stay connected with loved ones across the world,?Bea's Balikbayan Box of Treasures?is a heartwarming must-read. Through Bea's journey of packing a balikbayan box—a cherished Filipino tradition—young readers will discover the power of love, generosity, and cultural connection. This beautifully told story is a perfect way to introduce children to heritage, empathy, and the joy of giving, making it an essential addition to every bookshelf." -- Rosie J. Pova, author of Sally's Musical
ISBN: 9798885546416
Dimensions: 254mm x 254mm x 8mm
Weight: 431g
36 pages