Dekada '70

Dekada '70 is a Filipino political novel by Lualhati Bautista, published in 1983. The story follows a middle-class family in Manila during the period of martial law under Ferdinand Marcos's regime. The narrative centers on Amanda Bartolome, a mother of five sons, as she and her family navigate the social and political upheaval of 1970s Philippines. The novel chronicles their experiences during a decade marked by student activism, political resistance, and sweeping changes in Philippine society. The book earned the Palanca Award Grand Prize in 1983 and was later adapted into both a film and stage musical. It was originally written in Filipino, with an English translation by Clarisse de Jesus later published, and Penguin Random House has expressed interest in releasing it as part of their Classics series. Dekada '70 explores themes of family dynamics, political awakening, and personal transformation against the backdrop of historical events that shaped the Philippines. The novel stands as a significant work in Philippine literature that documents the impact of martial law on ordinary citizens.

Readers highlight the book's raw portrayal of a family during Martial Law through a mother's perspective. Many note how it brings the Marcos era's impact on ordinary Filipinos into sharp focus. Readers appreciate: - The intimate family dynamics and character development - Clear, straightforward writing style that avoids melodrama - Educational value for younger generations - Strong female protagonist who evolves beyond traditional roles Common criticisms: - Some scenes feel rushed or underdeveloped - Political elements can overshadow the family narrative - Translation issues in the English version Ratings: Goodreads: 4.4/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (42 ratings) Sample reader comments: "Shows how political upheaval affects even the most personal family moments" - Goodreads reviewer "Required reading for Filipinos but accessible to anyone" - Amazon reviewer "Could have developed secondary characters more" - Goodreads reviewer

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🔹 The book was adapted into a critically acclaimed film in 2002, starring Vilma Santos and Christopher De Leon, which won multiple awards at the Metro Manila Film Festival. 🔹 During Martial Law (1972-1981), over 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240 were killed, providing the real historical context for the novel's events. 🔹 Lualhati Bautista wrote the novel without formal college education, breaking traditional literary barriers and later becoming one of the Philippines' most respected authors. 🔹 The title "Dekada '70" was chosen specifically because the 1970s marked the longest period of Martial Law in Philippine history, lasting from 1972 to 1981. 🔹 The novel has become required reading in many Philippine schools, contributing to younger generations' understanding of Martial Law's impact on ordinary Filipino families.