Patron Saints of Nothing

Ribay dedicates the novel to the “hyphenated,” a reference to all those who define themselves through multiple cultures. Research the psychological, emotional, and cultural impact of assimilation in the contemporary era of globalization created by the internet and social media. Discuss the connections between your findings and the novel’s central themes.

What is a saint in a modern world? Jun describes himself with some irony as the patron saint of nothing. Research the logic and purpose served by patron saints in the Catholic Church. Does Jun qualify, or is his remark intended to be ironic?

As Jay does, research the Rodrigo Duterte presidency and its program to crack down on drug abuse in the Philippines. Consider how Ribay depicts both sides of the issue. Assess the good and bad of the government program. How does Duterte figure into Jay’s awareness that no one is simply one thing or another?