Michael Reyes loves books on wine, adventure and acting

Michael Reyes is only 23 years old, a new resident of the Philippines and helping out in the family owned The Wine Club located in Legaspi Village. He graduated with a degree in Film from Ithaca in the state of New York. He is Filipino courtesy of his dad and American by virtue of his mom. He grew up in the balmy state of Hawaii. Determined to be fluent in Tagalog by the end of the year, Michael would like to explore acting on film and on stage here. He can also sing,  which would make him available to audition for growing musical theater opportunities. I asked Michael to share with us his favorite books.

 1. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

 This book is my all-time favorite. It was first given to me as summer reading for a literature course in school. The book can be described as neo-gothic, following a young man in ‘50s fascist era Barcelona. Thrilling till the last word and really paints Barcelona as a city of life and mystery. 

 2. Respect for Acting by Uta Hagen

 This book is my bible for acting. It was the first piece of literature I have read on the subject and will always be my main reference for the subject of acting.

 3. Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

 If you are a fan of the HBO series, Game of Thrones, you will definitely love the written rendition. Martin is able to go into much more detail in the novels which creates a much more intimate connection between the reader and characters. 

 4. The End of Mr. Y by Scarlett Thomas

 A novel, which explores some very interesting ideas of thought and “being.” Thrilling and entertaining.

 5. Judgment of Paris: California vs. France and the Historic 1976 Paris Tasting that Revolutionized Wine by George M. Taber

 This is the piece of literature that has exposed me to the fabulous world of wine — especially California wine. A must-read for anyone who is even slightly interested in the topic.

 6. The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling

 This series is a foundation of my childhood. Reading these books with my mother are some of my fondest childhood memories.

 7. Pio Valenzuela by Isabelo T. Crisostomo

 A beautiful biography of Dr. Pio Valenzuela who is both a personal hero and my great grandfather.

 8. Acting in Film by Michael Caine

 A very entertaining and insightful autobiography of Michael Caine’s prominent career.

9.  The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

 Another landmark of my childhood. This is a novel that both entertained and instilled very important virtues throughout my childhood.

 10.  The Art of War by Sun Tsu

 This legendary piece of literature has helped me through multiple challenges in my life and has instilled strength in both my personal and business life. 

 The Reading Club recommends Gone Girl now showing as a movie starring Ben Affleck.  Books are available at National Book Store and PowerBooks.

My favorite magazine is still Oprah available on subscription from Emerald Headway.

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You may send your questions or suggestions at mjrodis@gmail.com. Follow me @showbizmanila on instagram and twitter.