The stories are master studies on how minute details in history, archaeology, and language can be used as portals to a distant time but with values and relations—personal and social—that are so recognizable and which we hold dear even in the present. Handled with deep sensitivity to language and careful attention to family, friendship, art, self, and community, Balangay invites us to a journey in Masawa, pre-colonial Butuan, with the balangay as a central and mighty image that speaks of the glory and sophistication of a people.

1. Historical fiction, Philippine (English). 2. Butuan (Philippines)-History. 3. Butuan (Pjilippines)-Social life and customs. 4. Butuan (Philippines)-Social conditions. 5. Boats-Philippines-Butuan City-History.