Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Random House Children's (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Clara lives on an island that visitors call exotic. But there's nothing exotic about it to Clara. She loves eating ripe mangos off the ground, running outside in the rain with her Papa during rainy season, and going to her secret hideout with Gaynah—even though lately she's not acting like a best friend.
The only thing out of the ordinary for Clara is that something happened to her memory that made her forget everything that happened last summer after a hurricane hit. Sometimes things come back to her in drips like a tap that hasn't been turned off properly. Other times her Mama fills in the blanks...only she knows those aren't her memories and it is hard feeling like she is not like everybody else.
But this summer is going to be different for Clara. Everyone is buzzing with excitement over a new girl in the village who is not like other visitors. She is about to make big waves on the island—and give Clara a summer she won't forget.
Shannon's review: 5/5 stars
I always enjoy reading middle grade books. They always weave a good story and typically include a great lesson for children and adults alike, and When Life Gives You Mangos is no exception. Getten's writing gave life to Clara's story as a child growing up and enjoying her summer on an exotic island. While reading, I was able to visualize myself in Clara's shoes and imagine living a life different than my own. This story also includes a great life lesson! I will not expand further on this as I do not want to give spoilers.
Clara, lives the life of a typical 12 year old. She enjoys spending time with her friends, going on adventures, and surfing. Though recently her fear of the water has kept her from surfing. She not sure where the fear came from but she knows it is there. Clara can be quick to anger, and doesn't remember much from last summer. Clara's memory loss, is mentioned throughout the story, and as a reader you continue to wonder what caused it. This aspect keeps the reading guessing and reading on to learn more.
Clara's friends new and old are featured a lot in this story. We have Gaynah, Clara's best friend who hasn't been acting much like a friends. Calvin one of her surfing friends. And then we have Rudy, a new girl visiting the island. Rudy is outgoing, playful and she quickly becomes friends with Clara, helping her push her boundaries in a good way. Overall, I would recommend this book to any child or adult.
Comments