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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Youth devider National Book Store turns book shopping into a nationwide hunt

National Book Store turns book shopping into a nationwide hunt

A new kind of bookstore adventure

Published Sep 29, 2025 06:08 pm
Book shopping just got a playful twist. National Book Store has launched The National Hunt, a countrywide game that invites readers to search for hidden surprises tucked between bookshelves. Instead of simply browsing for your next favorite title, shoppers now have a chance to stumble upon mystery prizes—making every trip to the bookstore feel like a mini adventure.
Adding to the excitement is the National Book Squad, a group of Gen Z personalities bringing their own charm to the hunt. Social media stars Mika Salamanca, Josh Ford, Kira Balinger, Esnyr Ranollo, Will Ashley, and Ralph de Leon are leaving clues and secretly placing special books across different National Book Store branches. Their online posts hint at where treasures might be hiding, turning the hunt into a blend of on-ground sleuthing and digital detective work.
The mechanics are simple: visit a participating branch, look out for the books chosen by the squad, and if you spot one, purchase it. Inside could be anything from gadgets to travel perks—past prizes have included an Apple iPad, flight vouchers, and even a DJI Osmo 3 camera.
The search isn’t limited to store aisles. The fun starts online, where the National Book Squad drops sneak peeks and cryptic hints on social media. For fans, following their accounts isn’t just entertainment—it might be the key to finding the next big prize.
Whether you’re a casual reader or a competitive treasure hunter, The National Hunt is a fresh reason to visit a bookstore and rediscover the thrill of finding something unexpected. After all, the best stories sometimes begin with a little mystery.

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