What is a book launch?

by Philip Habacon

Winnipeg writer Philip Habacon launched his new book 55 Things Learned at 55 at the Art Space Building, 100 Arthur Street on November 9, 2025. He reflects on the experiences that went into the writing of the book and the warm reception it has received.

What exactly is a book launch? Since this is the author’s debut publication, let’s explore how the book came into being, and relive that afternoon when the book was launched to the public.

Writing in a small notebook was, for him, simply a means to an end. In his darkest moments when his PTSD symptoms flared, the journals became a refuge. Anything churning in his mind he put onto paper, letting thoughts out that otherwise would have stayed trapped, devouring him and eroding his spirit. At work, the author witnessed firsthand human pain, suffering, moral and social decay, and death. So much so that death sometimes seemed the easiest way to escape.

He hadn’t known what to expect when the Manitoba Writers Guild launched 55 Things Learned at 55 on November 9, 2025. Most of the fifty‑five short pieces were cheeky little scenes such as, “The lawyer in the drunk tank,” “Stinky is good if you’re prepared for it” (Canada), “If it floats—flies—or f***s, always rent it,” “Rough around the edges” (Thailand), “Prayer is a powerful thing,” and “Kindness is not weakness” (Philippines).

He never expected that a few audience members would be brought to tears when the Manitoba Writers Guild host read “memento mori”(Latin: “remember you must die”). The book clearly resonated. The launch sold out, and copies at Chapters at Polo Park did too. The author was surprised that people queued up to buy copies and have them signed.

At the Art Space Building at 100 Arthur Street in Winnipeg, Dr. Michele Matter, who was EMS director from 2005 to 2016, referred to the work in her speech as “a wonderful book and a gift for readers.” 

The author, a Filipino Canadian immigrant, is grateful to his wife Lizette, his son Hans, his dogs Krinkle and Kenzo, and the Friesen Press team for helping bring the book to publication. Born and raised in the Philippines, the author moved to Canada in 2009 from Pattaya, Thailand. The book recounts true stories he witnessed and experienced firsthand.