Jason Tanamor

Hey there!

I’m Jason Tanamor, a Filipino-American writer and author.

I’ve been named one of the “5 Best Modern Filipino Writers” by Pinas Global Newspaper and listed among Positively Filipino’s “Fil-Ams Among the Remarkable and Famous.” I’m the author of Filipino-themed novels including Vampires of Portlandia, Love, Dance & Egg Rolls, and The Legend of Sensei Tsinelas — stories that blend culture, identity, humor, and heart.

My work is often inspired by true stories, unexpected history, and the overlooked moments that reveal something deeper about who we are. Whether I’m writing fiction or narrative nonfiction, I’m drawn to stories that surprise, resonate, and challenge assumptions.

I was nominated for the 2024 UCLA Allegra Johnson Literary Prize and the 2024 UCLA James Kirkwood Prize, and my work has been featured in publications such as Esquire Philippines, CNN Philippines, Filipino Daily Inquirer, and Asian Journal.

My family and I currently live in Illinois.

🧭 What I Bring to Uptales

I help writers uncover the story beneath the surface — the human element that turns facts, ideas, or experiences into something memorable.

I bring:

• A culturally grounded storytelling perspective rooted in Filipino-American identity
• Experience blending fiction, narrative nonfiction, and true-life inspiration
• A strong instinct for voice, pacing, and narrative shape
• Insight into writing stories that honor heritage while speaking to universal themes
• A curiosity-driven approach that invites readers into unexpected worlds

🛠️ Background & Experience

• Author of multiple novels, including:
  • Vampires of Portlandia
  • Love, Dance & Egg Rolls
  • The Legend of Sensei Tsinelas
• Recognized as one of the “5 Best Modern Filipino Writers” (Pinas Global Newspaper)
• Featured among Positively Filipino’s “Fil-Ams Among the Remarkable and Famous”
• 2024 UCLA Allegra Johnson Literary Prize nominee
• 2024 UCLA James Kirkwood Prize nominee
• Featured in Esquire Philippines, CNN Philippines, Filipino Daily Inquirer, Asian Journal, and more
• Member spotlighted by the Authors Guild
• Published author with multiple works

🎤 My Guiding Philosophy

The most powerful stories are the ones that feel personal — even when they’re strange, funny, or unexpected.

I believe writing works best when it’s honest, culturally grounded, and willing to explore the unusual corners of real life.

✅ Work With Me On

• Developing culturally rooted fiction and narrative nonfiction
• Shaping stories inspired by real or unusual events
• Voice development and narrative clarity
• Story structure, pacing, and revision
• Exploring identity, heritage, and lived experience through story