Comprehensive Review of Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay

Literature Reviews - 2025

Comprehensive Review of Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay

Overview

Patron Saints of Nothing is a powerful and thought-provoking young adult novel that explores themes of grief, guilt, identity, social justice, and the complexities of family and culture. Written by Randy Ribay, the novel follows Jay Reguero, a Filipino-American teenager who embarks on a journey to the Philippines to uncover the truth behind his cousin Jun’s murder, which was allegedly tied to President Duterte’s controversial drug war. Through Jay’s perspective, the novel provides an intimate look at the political climate in the Philippines while simultaneously delving into the struggles of biracial identity and the immigrant experience.

Strengths

  1. Engaging and Well-Developed Characters

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its character development. Jay, the protagonist, is portrayed as an ordinary teenager, initially unaware of the socio-political realities of his ancestral homeland. His internal struggles—balancing his American upbringing with his Filipino roots—make him relatable to readers who have experienced cultural disconnection. Jay's character arc is compelling, as he evolves from ignorance and privilege to a deeper understanding of his heritage and the injustices in the Philippines.

Jun, though absent for much of the story, is brought to life through letters and memories. His character serves as a moral compass, highlighting issues of justice, faith, and resistance. The contrast between Jay and Jun reinforces the novel’s themes of choice, responsibility, and the consequences of inaction.

Supporting characters such as Mia (a determined journalism student), Tito Maning (Jun’s authoritarian father and a government official loyal to Duterte), and Grace (Jay’s intelligent and self-assured cousin) add depth and nuance to the story. Tito Maning, in particular, stands out as an antagonist whose rigid beliefs challenge Jay’s evolving worldview.

  1. Authentic Exploration of Filipino Culture and Politics

Ribay masterfully immerses readers in the Philippines’ cultural landscape, from family dynamics and religious traditions to societal issues like poverty, corruption, and extrajudicial killings. The novel does not shy away from presenting both sides of the drug war, portraying characters who support Duterte’s policies while also amplifying the voices of those who oppose them. By weaving in real-world events, including the Maguindanao Massacre and the suppression of press freedom, Ribay ensures that the novel remains relevant and educational.

The novel also touches on the struggles of the Filipino diaspora, particularly how immigrants and their children navigate their identities. Jay’s experiences highlight the disconnect that many second-generation immigrants feel, as well as the judgment they may receive from relatives who remained in their homeland.

  1. Compelling and Well-Paced Plot

The novel’s structure, which combines Jay’s present-day investigations with excerpts from Jun’s letters, keeps the reader engaged. The central mystery—unraveling the circumstances of Jun’s death—adds a layer of suspense, making the book difficult to put down. Ribay balances action, introspection, and dialogue effectively, ensuring that the story moves at a steady pace without feeling rushed or drawn out.

  1. Meaningful Themes and Social Commentary

At its core, Patron Saints of Nothing is about standing up for truth and justice, even when doing so is uncomfortable or dangerous. Themes of complicity, activism, and personal responsibility resonate throughout the novel. Jay’s journey forces him to confront difficult questions: What does it mean to be Filipino? Can he claim a culture he barely knows? What responsibilities does he have to his family and the people of the Philippines? The novel does not offer easy answers but instead encourages critical thinking and self-reflection.

Another major theme is the role of media and journalism in exposing corruption. Through Mia and other characters, the novel highlights the risks journalists face when challenging authoritarian regimes. Ribay’s portrayal of press suppression in the Philippines parallels global concerns about media censorship and disinformation.

Weaknesses

  1. Occasional Predictability

While the novel is well-written, some plot points—such as Jay’s realization of his privilege and his growing disillusionment with Tito Maning—unfold in a somewhat predictable manner. Readers familiar with young adult coming-of-age narratives may anticipate certain character developments and thematic revelations.

  1. Romance Feels Unnecessary

Some reviewers have noted that the romance between Jay and Mia feels underdeveloped and unnecessary. Given the weight of the novel’s primary themes, the romantic subplot does little to enhance the story and could have been omitted without diminishing the novel’s impact.

  1. Open-Ended Conclusion

While the novel’s ending is realistic, it leaves some readers wanting more closure. Jay gains a deeper understanding of his cousin’s life and the injustices in the Philippines, but the novel does not offer clear resolutions regarding his role in creating change. This ambiguity reflects real-world complexities, but some readers may find it unsatisfying.

Conclusion

Patron Saints of Nothing is a deeply moving and socially relevant novel that sheds light on important issues while delivering an emotionally resonant coming-of-age story. Randy Ribay’s writing is both lyrical and powerful, making this book a must-read for young adults and adults alike. Despite minor weaknesses, its strengths—particularly its rich character development, cultural depth, and thought-provoking themes—make it a standout work in contemporary young adult literature.