The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Isabella Cuartero
Sunbeams and raindrops may seem like simple parts of nature, but together, they help sustain life. They nourish plants, provide water, and help create the world that people and animals depend on.
This simple yet meaningful idea comes to life in “How Sunbeams and Raindrops Play,” a children’s book written by Gloria Villaraza Guzman and her daughter, Amy De Guzman-Schlanger.
The story began 15 years ago when Amy and her mother first started working on the project. However, as Gloria’s Alzheimer’s disease progressed, Amy decided to put the book on hold.
Years later, the unfinished project found new life. Inspired by the interest of family and friends in her mother’s works, and encouraged by her husband, Steve Schlanger, Amy returned to the book.
“It was the inspired motivation by my husband, Steve Schlanger, who made this dream book a reality,” Amy shared.
After years of completing the story, “How Sunbeams and Raindrops Play” finally reached young readers. The first book launch was held on March 15 at Fully Booked BGC, featuring a storytelling session with Joross and Katz Gamboa.
The story continues with the upcoming launch of its second edition on September 10, which will also introduce its Tagalog translation. Amy will be joined by illustrator Kenneth Licaycay and developmental editor-translator Isabella Cuartero for a book signing with CentralBooks at the Manila International Book Fair 2026, 4 p.m., at Booths 384–393, SMX Convention Center Manila.
Through colorful illustrations and a story that personifies sunbeams and raindrops as helpers of nature, the book teaches children ages 5 to 12 how sunlight and rain work together to sustain life.
But behind the story is another lesson: some dreams may take years to fulfill, but with love, encouragement, and perseverance, they can eventually see the light.
US-based Amy de Guzman-Schlanger is a freelance writer for various Filipino-American publications in the U.S.A. She writes Philippine entertainment articles that reflect inter-cultural awareness. Her works are published in Positively Filipino, Filipino Reporter, Filipino-American Journal, and Weekend Balita.
This seasoned writer is also a newbie who believes in progressive learning. She participated in different creative development programs such as Jacob Krueger’s Professional Mentorship Program for Writers and Write Your Screenplay Class, and Ricky Lee Screenwriting Workshop of Star Cinema / ABS-CBN. She was also a contender during the Writers Summit at the Atlanta Film Festival, and was an Atlanta Screenplay Awardee 2022.