One Box is a children’s counting story about a migrant worker sending a box of gifts and supplies to their loved ones in the Philippines. Also known as Balikbayan boxes, these are typically filled with things like canned goods, clothing and snacks. But in One Box there’s more than just stuff — it’s full of promises.

With tenderness and gorgeous illustrations, this Filipino parent tells their child about all the things they will do together when they are reunited. Part of a young queer family separated by migration and indentured labour, they don’t count the days. They count the ways they will rebuild their relationships.

Andi Vicente (they/them) is a visual artist whose interdisciplinary practice is humbled and radicalized by their work with different communities. Through installation, image making and digital collage, they explore intersectional identities, precarious livelihoods and the juxtaposition of movements. Andi aims to broaden an understanding of oppressed experiences and encourage collective empowerment through answering the questions: “Who is not here with us and how can I be there for you?”

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Allan Matudio is a multidisciplinary artist born to Filipino parents in Tio'tia:ke/Montreal. He gravitates towards illustrations, comics and metalwork as his main mediums of expression. His art practice focuses on the Filipino-Canadian identity, migrant worker struggles and pre-colonial Filipino art and mythology.

Allan Matudio's profile page

“These pages are overflowing with love, dreams, and resilience. Just like the very box in the story, this book is a treasured gift, packed with tenderness and care.”

Sennah Yee, author of My Day with Gong Gong