Young author Nigel Willem Canlapan

MANILA, Philippines – Making waves in Saudi Arabia is 12-year-old Filipino Nigel Willem Canlapan, who launched his second book, "Snowstorm and the Bond," at the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh recently.

According to an Embassy release, "Snowstorm and the Bond" follows Canlapan’s, “Snowstorm: The Wolf,” published in 2009. The series is about a wolf that would do everything, even to the extent of self-sacrifice, to protect his brood. Echoing Jack London’s “White Fang,” the book traces the wolf’s steps as it evolves in relation to its surrounding particularly his growing bond with a human friend.

At the launch, Canlapan gave Ambassador Ezzedin Tago a copy of his book. Tago encouraged the young boy to continue writing and to focus on his studies.

Showing their support for Canlapan are students from Philippine curriculum schools in the region. In his speech, Canlapan encouraged the students to write their own stories.

Aside from writing, Canalapan is also into music, particularly rap. He plays several instruments and dreams of recording his compositions someday.

Canlapan’s father is noted photographer Gerico, a Bagong Bayani Awardee for culture and arts. His mother, Flordeliza, is Acting Clinical Director of Nursing at the Riyadh Military Hospital.