THE PRISONER OF ZENDA by Anthony Hope (pre-intemediate level)

Published in May 1894, The Prisoner of Zenda popularised Hope’s work that had previously only consisted of some witty sketches - The Dolly Dialogues - and a failed novel. Like its sequel, Rupert of Hentzau, this novel concerns the adventures of Rudolf Rassendyll. He is a young gentleman in the fictional land of Ruritania. He bears a strong relation to the king in looks at least and there are rumours that certain dishonourable acts had occurred between the king and one of Ruolf’s ancestors six generations ago. Rudolf is charming, witty and courageous. He sets out on a supposed fishing expedition to Tyrol but intends to see Rudolf the Fifth crowned in Streslau. He learns that the king’s throne is in danger from ‘Black’ Michael already and so Rudolf makes his way to Zenda, a small town in favour of Michael. He meets the king himself and they get on well, but a drugged bottle send by Michael leaves Rudolf in a stupor unable to defend his crown.

Our hero, Rassendyll must step in for the other Rudolf. We learn of his adventures as the king’s double and the true love of Flavia (the king’s betrothed) who he gallantly gives up finally with the kingdom. Although it is a fairly slim novel and far-fetched in the extreme, it was hugely popular. As such, in the sequel, Rupert of Hentzau - a villain from Zenda - is defeated and Rudolf has a second chance with Flavia and the throne though this time he unable to make a decision since fate intervenes.

IBONG ADARNA by Bernardo Caprio (pre-intemediate level)

The Ibong Adarna (Adarna Bird) is considered to be a mythical creature in the Philippines. The Adarna possess a beautiful singing voice and it knows 7 songs. Every time that the Adarna finishes a song, it defecates, and its feathers change to a more beautiful shade, becoming more colorful and shiny. It is believed that its songs have the power to lull anyone to sleep, and its droppings could turn anyone into stone. Its song is also believed to cure any affliction. The Adarna bird is a very fancy bird with very long tail, displaying numerous metallic colors. It is considered the phoenix of the Philippines.

The Ibong Adarna is the subject of a Filipino epic or korido of the same name. The epic narrates the story of three brothers sent by their father, a king, to catch the bird, in order to cure the king's ailment through hearing the bird's enchanted song. The only prince who was able to successfully capture the bird was the youngest, Don Juan. But on his way back to the palace - together with his rescued brothers - Don Juan encountered many other adventures and mysteries. He also met many princesses, and married one of them.