Join us for a professional development book club over the course of three dates on:

Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 2:00pm–4:00 pm CDT at Restoried Bookshop | 4613 N. Kedzie Avenue, Chicago IL 60625
Tuesday, July 28, 2026 | 2:00-3:00pm CDT virtual on Zoom
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 | 10:00am-12:00pm at Field Museum

Join a cohort of 20 educators for a three-part learning experience exploring Filipino history, identity, and storytelling through literature, dialogue, and place-based learning.

Together, participants will read Wild Song by Candy Gourlay and Mabuhay!, a graphic novel by Zachary Sterling, that brings Filipino history and culture to life for younger readers. Through guided discussions, educators will examine themes of colonialism, migration, resilience, belonging, and representation while considering how these stories can enrich classroom practice and support culturally responsive teaching.

The series will begin with an in-person gathering at Restoried, Chicago's only AANHPI-focused bookstore, where participants will build community and launch their reading journey. A second virtual session will provide space for deeper discussion and reflection on Mabuhay! The experience will culminate at the Field Museum, where educators will connect Wild Song to material culture and history through a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Philippine Heritage Collection.

By moving between books, community spaces, and museum collections, participants will gain a richer understanding of Filipino narratives and explore new ways to engage students with stories that illuminate the intersections of history, identity, and belonging.

Program Format

Session 1: In-person at Restoried Bookshop
Session 2: Virtual discussion
Session 3: Field Museum discussion and behind-the-scenes tour of the Philippine Heritage Collection

Audience: Grades 3–12 educators, librarians, and education professionals interested in Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander histories, literature, and culturally responsive learning experiences.

Registration Includes

2 books: Wild Song and Mabuhay
Access to all three sessions
Materials
Light breakfast and parking at Session 3 at the Field Museum
Behind the Scenes Tour of the Philippine Heritage Collection

Registration will remain open until July 9th or until full.

Educators who complete the workshop series will receive 5 hours of Illinois Professional Development Credit (CPDUs).

Questions? Contact Ria Pretekin, rpretekin@fieldmuseum.org

Learning

Explore this topic through the content here and the halls of the Museum.

Related Topics

Darwin's Finches Lesson Plan

Events

Educator Open House

Engaging Students Through Asian Popular Culture and Inquiry