Tropic of Splendor: An Illustrated Book of Philippine Biodiversity

From stalking a ballooning pufferfish (butete), knee-deep in the water to mimicking the rapturous singing of birds in the wild, Artist - Writer Christina Camingue Buo had always felt a connection to nature from an early age. She has distilled her love of wildlife, drawing, writing and traveling into multiple disciplines: print media, radio (Escapades Travel Show on K89.9 FM Cebu) books, photographs, paintings, and nature illustrations (Art Exhibits in Cebu & Siargao)

In her first book, Barefoot in Siargao: Nature, Adventure, and Ghost Stories from Siargao Island, she writes about childhood summers spent there - firefly catching, stargazing, climbing trees, as well as the mystery of the White Lady, the rhythm of country life, and the charm of days gone by.

Her new book, Tropic of Splendor, is a selection of ocean, seashore, mangrove/intertidal zone species illustrations and experiences that range from close encounters with individual animals to biological sketches, insights, and commentary about the challenges in ensuring their future. This is the first of a series illustrating different subjects on Philippine flora, fauna, and avian species.

She created this book to develop young people's/ readers' interest in natural heritage and inspire them to use their gifts to empower their communities.