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When Life Gives You Mangos
Named to Oprah Magazine's Best Caribbean Books for Your 2021 reading list, imagination and adventure run wild in the most talked about middle grade debut of the year!
A small village on a Jamaican island.
A girl who doesn't remember the previous summer.
A best friend who is no longer acting like one; a new girl who fills that hole in her heart.
A summer of finding fallen mangos, creating made up games and dancing in the rain.
Secrets she keeps from others...and herself.
The courage to face the truth even in the toughest of storms.
Inspired by the author's childhood experiences, When Life Give You Mangos is a celebration of island life as well as a rich, lyrical mystery.
Read it...and don't spoil the unforgettable ending!
A recommended read for classroom discussons and educators looking for diverse offerings.
"A heartfelt and accessible debut about friendship, memory, and forgiveness." —Tae Keller, author of Newbery Medal winner When You Trap a Tiger
"A wonderful story with great heart, mystery, and insight. Kereen Getten is a bright new voice." —Clare Vanderpool, author of Newbery Medal winner Moon Over Manifest and Printz Honor book Navigating Early
"A heartwarming yet suspenseful debut about the strength of family, the turmoil of friendships lost and found, and most importantly, remembering who you are." —Lynne Kelly, author of the Schneider award winner Song for a Whale
A small village on a Jamaican island.
A girl who doesn't remember the previous summer.
A best friend who is no longer acting like one; a new girl who fills that hole in her heart.
A summer of finding fallen mangos, creating made up games and dancing in the rain.
Secrets she keeps from others...and herself.
The courage to face the truth even in the toughest of storms.
Inspired by the author's childhood experiences, When Life Give You Mangos is a celebration of island life as well as a rich, lyrical mystery.
Read it...and don't spoil the unforgettable ending!
A recommended read for classroom discussons and educators looking for diverse offerings.
"A heartfelt and accessible debut about friendship, memory, and forgiveness." —Tae Keller, author of Newbery Medal winner When You Trap a Tiger
"A wonderful story with great heart, mystery, and insight. Kereen Getten is a bright new voice." —Clare Vanderpool, author of Newbery Medal winner Moon Over Manifest and Printz Honor book Navigating Early
"A heartwarming yet suspenseful debut about the strength of family, the turmoil of friendships lost and found, and most importantly, remembering who you are." —Lynne Kelly, author of the Schneider award winner Song for a Whale
208 pages, Paperback
First published October 20, 2020
129 people are currently reading
5160 people want to read
About the author
Kereen Getten
15 books114 followersKereen Getten grew up in Jamaica where she would climb fruit trees in the family garden and eat as much mango, guinep and pear as she could without being caught. She now lives in Birmingham with her family and writes stories about her childhood experiences. When Life Gives You Mangos is her debut novel.
Visit her on n Instagram @Kereengetten
Visit her on n Instagram @Kereengetten
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 743 reviews
July 8, 2020
THE TWIST!! I rarely gasp audibly when reading books, let alone a middle grade, but this one SHOOK ME.
This follows Clara who lost her memory of a storm that happened the summer before. Because of this, she is usually teased on her island, even from her best friend, Gaynah. Something happened to her and we don't really know what or why it's changed Clara.
I don't typically read contemporary but I was sent this ARC from Pushkin Press (so thank you so much because I LOVED this) in exchange for an honest review, and honestly, I AM STILL THINKING ABOUT THE END OF CHAPTER TWENTY!
The intrigue in this was super high because I really wanted to know what happened to Clara, and I loved the unfolding of that mystery and how it plays out. It was SO well done, so major props to Kereen Getten for writing a very atmospheric middle grade. I loved the setting of the island and the feel of community in this, I found it so very sensory and it helped me to really invest in the story and characters.
This follows Clara who lost her memory of a storm that happened the summer before. Because of this, she is usually teased on her island, even from her best friend, Gaynah. Something happened to her and we don't really know what or why it's changed Clara.
I don't typically read contemporary but I was sent this ARC from Pushkin Press (so thank you so much because I LOVED this) in exchange for an honest review, and honestly, I AM STILL THINKING ABOUT THE END OF CHAPTER TWENTY!
The intrigue in this was super high because I really wanted to know what happened to Clara, and I loved the unfolding of that mystery and how it plays out. It was SO well done, so major props to Kereen Getten for writing a very atmospheric middle grade. I loved the setting of the island and the feel of community in this, I found it so very sensory and it helped me to really invest in the story and characters.
September 5, 2020
An atmospheric children's contemporary with a twist.
This follows Clara, a 12 year old girl who lives in a small island village. Clara has no memories of the previous summer and is teased a lot about this, especially by her best friend Gaynah.
I really enjoyed this book! Both Contemporary and Middle Grade aren't my usual reads so it was definitely outside my comfort zone but I enjoyed reading about Clara's days spent exploring the island that is her home and games of make-believe.
I have to admit, I've read a book with a similar synopsis to this so I had a little bit of an inkling about the twist going into this (I won't tell you which book because then if you've read it you'll know) but I was still a little shocked when we got there because by that point, I'd forgotten I was even expecting it.
I did really enjoy Kereen Getten's writing. She doesn't talk down to you like you sometimes find in children's books and I enjoyed my time reading this one.
Overall I think it is a very strong Contemporary Middle Grade about facing your fears with strong themes of friendship and community.
This follows Clara, a 12 year old girl who lives in a small island village. Clara has no memories of the previous summer and is teased a lot about this, especially by her best friend Gaynah.
I really enjoyed this book! Both Contemporary and Middle Grade aren't my usual reads so it was definitely outside my comfort zone but I enjoyed reading about Clara's days spent exploring the island that is her home and games of make-believe.
I have to admit, I've read a book with a similar synopsis to this so I had a little bit of an inkling about the twist going into this (I won't tell you which book because then if you've read it you'll know) but I was still a little shocked when we got there because by that point, I'd forgotten I was even expecting it.
I did really enjoy Kereen Getten's writing. She doesn't talk down to you like you sometimes find in children's books and I enjoyed my time reading this one.
Overall I think it is a very strong Contemporary Middle Grade about facing your fears with strong themes of friendship and community.
October 20, 2020
I was so happy to read and review When Life Gives You Mangoes, and it ended up being such an enjoyable middle grade read.
I immediately loved the Jamaican setting. And it made me miss home so much, and Jamaica too. It is the first book I’ve read set in Jamaica despite being British-Jamaican myself. The mentions of guineap, hard dough bread and ackee and saltfish – all things I eat and never really hear about in books — made me love it all the more. It did a great job of incorporating some of the culture and setting in the story.
I also really liked the small town feels we get in this book. All the friends know each other, and everyone knows everyone’s business. And just like in a small town, while everything seems deceptively out in the open, there are more secrets being kept here than we first believe.
I think at some points the story lulled a little bit and slowed down. But all I can say on that is this book is worth holding out for. There is a plot twist moment I didn’t see coming, and it surprised me. It blew my mind, and it also made everything move along faster afterward again.
Another element to this that I liked was how it showed adults and parents as imperfect. There are many times where Clara feels frustrated about parents holding things back from her, but everything comes together. We definitely hear about mistakes the adults have made and how they need to change and improve as well.
This one felt very realistic to the age audience. It’s a middle grade for the younger end of middle grade readers. I think the writing was suitable to the age audience who would be reading it. Seeing the make-believe adventures the children went on and the small arguments they had with each other felt very realistic.
I loved the plot twist and what themes it explored with it… I can’t say much more, but the ending of this book was incredibly satisfying and perfect for the book overall.
This review and others can originally be found on Olivia's Catastrophe: https://oliviascatastrophe.com/2020/1...
I immediately loved the Jamaican setting. And it made me miss home so much, and Jamaica too. It is the first book I’ve read set in Jamaica despite being British-Jamaican myself. The mentions of guineap, hard dough bread and ackee and saltfish – all things I eat and never really hear about in books — made me love it all the more. It did a great job of incorporating some of the culture and setting in the story.
I also really liked the small town feels we get in this book. All the friends know each other, and everyone knows everyone’s business. And just like in a small town, while everything seems deceptively out in the open, there are more secrets being kept here than we first believe.
I think at some points the story lulled a little bit and slowed down. But all I can say on that is this book is worth holding out for. There is a plot twist moment I didn’t see coming, and it surprised me. It blew my mind, and it also made everything move along faster afterward again.
Another element to this that I liked was how it showed adults and parents as imperfect. There are many times where Clara feels frustrated about parents holding things back from her, but everything comes together. We definitely hear about mistakes the adults have made and how they need to change and improve as well.
This one felt very realistic to the age audience. It’s a middle grade for the younger end of middle grade readers. I think the writing was suitable to the age audience who would be reading it. Seeing the make-believe adventures the children went on and the small arguments they had with each other felt very realistic.
I loved the plot twist and what themes it explored with it… I can’t say much more, but the ending of this book was incredibly satisfying and perfect for the book overall.
This review and others can originally be found on Olivia's Catastrophe: https://oliviascatastrophe.com/2020/1...
August 8, 2024
This is a middle grade book. I do read a lot of middle grade books because I volunteer at my daughter's school library, and I like to know what books are about to help find a good book for them. I was so excited to read this book, and this book was so worth the excitement. The main character is Clara, and she is having some memory problems. I love that books is about a girl with mental issues (memory loss), and it was really well done. She feels everything is changing. She is working through it all during this book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher or author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
July 27, 2021
Priceless!
“When Life Gives You Mangos” is a heartfelt Jamaican story - 208 pages - one sitting read - aimed for middle school age -
Enjoyed by all ages.
This story was inspired by the authors own childhood experiences.
It’s filled with adventures-and complex relationships in a small community…
Obstacles with friends, family, self….
It’s a powerful little contemporary tale, centered around twelve year old Clara, where everyone knows everyone.
Emotions are tender… as this story deals with memory loss, family, friendships, (new and old), sad confusing inner thoughts, trauma, (with a bit of mystery),
….a touching heartbreaking and heartwarming story - with wonderful textured characters.
I read this in honor of my sweet young friend, *Gouri*.
Love you *Gouri*. Thank you for your wonderful review and sharing with me a book that you loved ‘lots’.
I did too.
The surprise ending ‘was’ really a surprise. (and perfect)!
“When Life Gives You Mangos” is a heartfelt Jamaican story - 208 pages - one sitting read - aimed for middle school age -
Enjoyed by all ages.
This story was inspired by the authors own childhood experiences.
It’s filled with adventures-and complex relationships in a small community…
Obstacles with friends, family, self….
It’s a powerful little contemporary tale, centered around twelve year old Clara, where everyone knows everyone.
Emotions are tender… as this story deals with memory loss, family, friendships, (new and old), sad confusing inner thoughts, trauma, (with a bit of mystery),
….a touching heartbreaking and heartwarming story - with wonderful textured characters.
I read this in honor of my sweet young friend, *Gouri*.
Love you *Gouri*. Thank you for your wonderful review and sharing with me a book that you loved ‘lots’.
I did too.
The surprise ending ‘was’ really a surprise. (and perfect)!
October 28, 2020
A delightful, beyond beautiful and intoxicating read!
I am generally not a middle school book reader but when I read the blurb, saw the gorgeous cover and the title was enough to send me reading Kereen Getten’s debut novel.
Set in a seaside community in Jamaica When Life Gives You Mangoes is the story of twelve-year-old Clara and how she is spending her summer holidays. Clara lives with her mother and father in the community of Sycamore where no one leaves and no one new visits. Everyone in Sycamore knows each other, they all grew up together and are community in every sense of the word. Clara is ready for summer, to eat all the mangoes, to spend time with her best friend and cousin Gaynah and maybe win a game of pick leave. Lately Clara finds Gaynah have been very mean to her, while she tries to not take it on, she cannot help but feel hurt by her friend’s treatment.
For a community where nothing new happens, the entire community is abuzz with the arrival of new visitors from the UK. Gaynah tells Clara all about the new visitors, but Clara isn’t interested in making any new friends. While Clara is excited for summer, she cannot help but feel left out as she cannot remember what happened last summer. Clara cannot remember what happened last summer and why she is not able to go into water without being overcome by fear. Her parents won’t fill her in, her best friend teases her for her memory loss… maybe this summer will be different, maybe she will remember….
I absolutely enjoyed this very delightful book. I enjoyed being in Clara’s world and going on her numerous adventures. Getten writing transported me to a simpler time where I would spend my summer holidays outside in the country. It felt very nostalgic and innocent and I wanted more.
What I loved:
I love that the book was told from Clara’s perspective, it brought to life her inner thinking and personality. I loved how perceptive Clara was in talking us on this journey.
I was BLOWN away by the twist at the end. I felt the author did a great job of having more than one thing to keep us interested to the very end. The twist at the end was the absolute best!
I really enjoyed how the author wrote about a positive, functioning family unit. I find I don’t read a lot about a family who sticks by and believe their child. I loved how the parents were portrayed as loving, patient and kind.
There are the themes of community, religion, friendship, grief, father-daughter relationship, family and trauma that I felt were aptly explored and explored in an authentic way.
I liked that that there was a bit of mystery and freshness to the overall plot.
I cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed this book. Getten was able to pack a lot in just 217 pages without it feeling packed. The writing was fresh, layered, and very authentic. Clara is a character I know I will not forget anytime soon.
If you are looking for a delightful read, this is your pick! Please please go read this book!
Thanks Pushkin Press for this ARC.
I am generally not a middle school book reader but when I read the blurb, saw the gorgeous cover and the title was enough to send me reading Kereen Getten’s debut novel.
Set in a seaside community in Jamaica When Life Gives You Mangoes is the story of twelve-year-old Clara and how she is spending her summer holidays. Clara lives with her mother and father in the community of Sycamore where no one leaves and no one new visits. Everyone in Sycamore knows each other, they all grew up together and are community in every sense of the word. Clara is ready for summer, to eat all the mangoes, to spend time with her best friend and cousin Gaynah and maybe win a game of pick leave. Lately Clara finds Gaynah have been very mean to her, while she tries to not take it on, she cannot help but feel hurt by her friend’s treatment.
For a community where nothing new happens, the entire community is abuzz with the arrival of new visitors from the UK. Gaynah tells Clara all about the new visitors, but Clara isn’t interested in making any new friends. While Clara is excited for summer, she cannot help but feel left out as she cannot remember what happened last summer. Clara cannot remember what happened last summer and why she is not able to go into water without being overcome by fear. Her parents won’t fill her in, her best friend teases her for her memory loss… maybe this summer will be different, maybe she will remember….
I absolutely enjoyed this very delightful book. I enjoyed being in Clara’s world and going on her numerous adventures. Getten writing transported me to a simpler time where I would spend my summer holidays outside in the country. It felt very nostalgic and innocent and I wanted more.
What I loved:
I love that the book was told from Clara’s perspective, it brought to life her inner thinking and personality. I loved how perceptive Clara was in talking us on this journey.
I was BLOWN away by the twist at the end. I felt the author did a great job of having more than one thing to keep us interested to the very end. The twist at the end was the absolute best!
I really enjoyed how the author wrote about a positive, functioning family unit. I find I don’t read a lot about a family who sticks by and believe their child. I loved how the parents were portrayed as loving, patient and kind.
There are the themes of community, religion, friendship, grief, father-daughter relationship, family and trauma that I felt were aptly explored and explored in an authentic way.
I liked that that there was a bit of mystery and freshness to the overall plot.
I cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed this book. Getten was able to pack a lot in just 217 pages without it feeling packed. The writing was fresh, layered, and very authentic. Clara is a character I know I will not forget anytime soon.
If you are looking for a delightful read, this is your pick! Please please go read this book!
Thanks Pushkin Press for this ARC.
August 28, 2020
“One cannot go wrong with his own company.”
I received an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review!
Okay, can we talk about how gorgeous the cover is? It’s one the most beautiful books that I’ve ever laid my eyes on.
This book was a warm hug. It’s about the different types of friendships. But it’s also about moving forward and letting go of your past and how toxic friends can sometimes ruin your life by making you stay in the past.
But what surprised me the most, was the supernatural element in this book. I thought that it was a contemporary but apparently it also has people who can see ghosts?
I was definitely taken aback by the plot twist because I DID NOT see THAT coming!! I was so shocked because throughout the book I didn’t suspect anything and then when I read it, I was so shocked that I needed to take a break and question everything that I’ve read.
The reason why I’m giving it a 3/5 stars is because for me it was an average read. It didn’t really stand out to me but I didn’t dislike it either.
The one thing that kept me from abandoning it, was the fact that I wanted to know what had happened last summer that made Clara lose all her memories. When the big reveal came, I was left speechless. The way the author unveiled the mystery was so well done, that I cannot believe that this is a MIDDLE GRADE contemporary!!
The author said that she wanted to write a book about friendships and I have to say that she really did a great job doing that, because that’s exactly what this book is about. It has so many different types of friendships in it, that I was awestruck.
The character developments, were in my opinion a bit rushed but I enjoyed them nonetheless. It’s better to have a rushed character development than to have no character development at all!
So all in all, it was an enjoyable read and I would definitely recommend it to everyone who is looking for a fluffy yet dark summer read.
I received an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review!
Okay, can we talk about how gorgeous the cover is? It’s one the most beautiful books that I’ve ever laid my eyes on.
This book was a warm hug. It’s about the different types of friendships. But it’s also about moving forward and letting go of your past and how toxic friends can sometimes ruin your life by making you stay in the past.
But what surprised me the most, was the supernatural element in this book. I thought that it was a contemporary but apparently it also has people who can see ghosts?
I was definitely taken aback by the plot twist because I DID NOT see THAT coming!! I was so shocked because throughout the book I didn’t suspect anything and then when I read it, I was so shocked that I needed to take a break and question everything that I’ve read.
The reason why I’m giving it a 3/5 stars is because for me it was an average read. It didn’t really stand out to me but I didn’t dislike it either.
The one thing that kept me from abandoning it, was the fact that I wanted to know what had happened last summer that made Clara lose all her memories. When the big reveal came, I was left speechless. The way the author unveiled the mystery was so well done, that I cannot believe that this is a MIDDLE GRADE contemporary!!
The author said that she wanted to write a book about friendships and I have to say that she really did a great job doing that, because that’s exactly what this book is about. It has so many different types of friendships in it, that I was awestruck.
The character developments, were in my opinion a bit rushed but I enjoyed them nonetheless. It’s better to have a rushed character development than to have no character development at all!
So all in all, it was an enjoyable read and I would definitely recommend it to everyone who is looking for a fluffy yet dark summer read.
June 25, 2021
This book left me with TONS of questions but I can’t tell how much I loved it❤️ First of all the writing style………….I loved it💕 This book was EVERYTHING and I am very disappointed by how underrated this book is😭
How can the author write such a beautiful novel in just 200 pages along with a BIG plot twist and make it so much gripping to read? This book was brilliant and heartbreaking💝
This book’s ending was the most perfect ending a book can have🥰 I still can’t believe what happened with Clara last year ( the memory she forgot) ……..I loved Clara’s new friend Rudy as well as Gaynah…I enjoyed every moment reading it🥰
I recommend this book to children’s as well as adults too💕
I loved the author’s writing so much! This book had evening I need, mystery, summer, mangoes❤️ and true friends😊I loved it soooo much but I still have so many questions puzzling me😭 I figured out the BIG plot twist😂 But this book won my heart!!!!!!!
I LOVED IT❤️
Go for it…..
How can the author write such a beautiful novel in just 200 pages along with a BIG plot twist and make it so much gripping to read? This book was brilliant and heartbreaking💝
This book’s ending was the most perfect ending a book can have🥰 I still can’t believe what happened with Clara last year ( the memory she forgot) ……..I loved Clara’s new friend Rudy as well as Gaynah…I enjoyed every moment reading it🥰
I recommend this book to children’s as well as adults too💕
I loved the author’s writing so much! This book had evening I need, mystery, summer, mangoes❤️ and true friends😊I loved it soooo much but I still have so many questions puzzling me😭 I figured out the BIG plot twist😂 But this book won my heart!!!!!!!
I LOVED IT❤️
Go for it…..
October 20, 2020
10/20/20: Happy publication day!
Review posted on August 19th, 2020:
The cover of this book is what initially drew me to it and I expected a breezy summer read. Instead, this book hit me right in the heart. At first, I wasn't too engaged in the story but I did wonder why Clara had memory problems and why the whole town was constantly arguing about her. As the story goes along, things become clear and there is a twist I did not expect. I think I'm going to go back to the beginning of the book to see if there were any subtle hints because it went right over my head. I expected something completely opposite but I liked the direction it went. This book is about family, friendship, loss, grief and I thought it was so beautifully done. Though this book is targeted for middle-grade it's a must read for any age group. I can see this one becoming popular once it comes out.
Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley for the advanced copy!
Review posted on August 19th, 2020:
The cover of this book is what initially drew me to it and I expected a breezy summer read. Instead, this book hit me right in the heart. At first, I wasn't too engaged in the story but I did wonder why Clara had memory problems and why the whole town was constantly arguing about her. As the story goes along, things become clear and there is a twist I did not expect. I think I'm going to go back to the beginning of the book to see if there were any subtle hints because it went right over my head. I expected something completely opposite but I liked the direction it went. This book is about family, friendship, loss, grief and I thought it was so beautifully done. Though this book is targeted for middle-grade it's a must read for any age group. I can see this one becoming popular once it comes out.
Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley for the advanced copy!
August 24, 2022
I absolutely loved the setting of this book and many of the characters within it. I know this is a YoungAdult/Children's contemporary read, but it had such good points on family, friends and community that I enjoyed it. There is a good twist that I didn't expect. I just loved how the story flowed effortlessly and going through the trials and experiences like I was a kid again!
October 23, 2020
October 03, 2020: This was such a delight to read. From a young girl's perspective who can't remember anything about last summer and keeps wondering where her sudden phobia around going into water is stemming from, this contemporary rightfully relies on character narration, emotional push, and a mysterious undertone. The father-daughter relationship was one of my favorites; in fact, the entire support the main character got from her family was lovely to witness. The twist was certainly surprising and the small town setting was perfect to create an atmosphere parallel to the mystery. Emotionally, the themes of grief, trauma, and friendship echoed very well. Overall, I recommend this!
May 20, 2020: I've recently found so much love for Middle-Grade books and this one's cover just got revealed which has the best colors and the cutest illustrations, uff.
May 20, 2020: I've recently found so much love for Middle-Grade books and this one's cover just got revealed which has the best colors and the cutest illustrations, uff.
November 9, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley and Delacorte Press for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Even though this book was short and sweet, I really enjoyed reading it!
Clara lives on a small, island village, where she loves the people and the memories she's made there. Except, she can't remember anything of what happened last summer, and lately, her best friend, Gaynah, hasn't been treating her like a friend. This summer, however, fate has something different in store for Clara, starting with a new girl coming to the village.
I absolutely loved the setting of this book. I felt absolutely immersed and right there with Clara as the story went on. The writing was vivid but simple, without being choppy. I loved the middle-grade aspects of this book, specifically the imaginary/role-play adventures that Clara went on with her friends. While the plot may have lulled in some areas, the writing kept me invested in the story, and had me feeling something akin to nostalgia with the almost-childlike wonder and magic that was incorporated into the story so well.
When we find out what happened that fateful summer, I was incredibly shocked. While I had started to guess at the truth, I was genuinely surprised at what happened, and that was nice. The characters (especially the adults) are charming and so imperfectly perfect. I absolutely loved the way the book ended, and all of this isn't even to mention the gorgeous cover.
Overall, this book was a really solid middle-grade debut that I could not help falling in love with. I would definitely recommend it to other middle-grade readers who want to get wrapped up in Clara's small town, and the answers to the mystery that lie just at the edge of your fingertips.
Even though this book was short and sweet, I really enjoyed reading it!
Clara lives on a small, island village, where she loves the people and the memories she's made there. Except, she can't remember anything of what happened last summer, and lately, her best friend, Gaynah, hasn't been treating her like a friend. This summer, however, fate has something different in store for Clara, starting with a new girl coming to the village.
I absolutely loved the setting of this book. I felt absolutely immersed and right there with Clara as the story went on. The writing was vivid but simple, without being choppy. I loved the middle-grade aspects of this book, specifically the imaginary/role-play adventures that Clara went on with her friends. While the plot may have lulled in some areas, the writing kept me invested in the story, and had me feeling something akin to nostalgia with the almost-childlike wonder and magic that was incorporated into the story so well.
When we find out what happened that fateful summer, I was incredibly shocked. While I had started to guess at the truth, I was genuinely surprised at what happened, and that was nice. The characters (especially the adults) are charming and so imperfectly perfect. I absolutely loved the way the book ended, and all of this isn't even to mention the gorgeous cover.
Overall, this book was a really solid middle-grade debut that I could not help falling in love with. I would definitely recommend it to other middle-grade readers who want to get wrapped up in Clara's small town, and the answers to the mystery that lie just at the edge of your fingertips.
June 17, 2020
"When Life Gives You Mangoes" by Kereen Getten is a fun middle-grade novel that explores a whole host of difficult issues such as bullying and memory loss. The story is set on the island of Jamaica, and follows Clara who cannot remember the events of last summer but knows that she is afraid of water. She used to spend her time in the ocean, surfing, but now for some reason she doesn't like surfing anymore. Subject to bullying amongst her family and peers because of her loss of memory, she begins to feel isolated and angered by her community. That is until the arrival of Rudy, the new girl from England. This book was engaging and sweet, and easily one of my favourite middle-grades I've read in a long time. I would definitely recommend it!
October 15, 2020
A new #ownvoices middle grade novel with a conflicted and lovable girl at its center. Clara is twelve and summer is beginning on Jamaica. Her best friend Gaynah seems to have deserted her and makes Clara want to retreat to her secret hideout. We learn that Clara wants loved surfing. Why is she afraid to go in the water? People keep telling her not to forget. What has she forgotten? What is the source of the conflict between Clara's uncle and Pastor Brown? Why didn't Clara know that Mrs. Ghee had a daughter and a granddaughter? This book really surprised me, but also left me a bit underwhelmed. The unification of the folks on the hill to clean up after the hurricane was heartwarming and inspiring. Clara's hermit uncle and the pastor had a back story that seemed a bit flimsy and unbelievable as the whole community seemed to be deceived. Hand this one to fans of Jacqueline Woodson and Kimberly Brubaker Bradley.
Thank you to Delacorte Press and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Delacorte Press and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2020
3.5 stars
Clara lives on an island where everybody knows everybody, and the summer consists of eating mangoes in hideouts and hanging out with your friends. The only downside to Clara's life is that ever since the storm last summer she can't remember anything that happened, not even when prompted by her mother or best friend Gaynah. Can anything stir up her forgotten summer memories? Or are some memories best left in the dark?
I really enjoyed the whole atmosphere for this story. Set on a tropical island, it's filled with descriptions of lush vegetation and heat waves which really added to the colourful vibes of the story. There's also a really strong sense of community scattered throughout which I loved. Everyone helps each other, they all see each other as an extended family (and a lot of the time they actually are family anyway) with the whole village turning up for everyone's life events. It feels safe and loving, making the reader feel safe and cared for too.
The plot is nice too. It meanders at the start, as we see Clara going about her daily summer life and seeing the trials and tribulations of a typical 12 year old girl. Her family has some problems, there's tension with the Pastor, but generally it seems a gentle life with a little undercurrent of mystery about last summer and Clara's uncle who lives a solitary outcast life in a big house on the hill. Then that twist comes out of left field and punches you in the gut. Honestly, did not see it coming. At all. It's very well written into the story, almost as though you should have expected it all along and weaves the explanation into the plot quite organically. I just wish it had been explored a bit more, and in great depth.
Good contemporary middle grade with a plot twist you won't expect. Loveable characters and a great setting only add to the enjoyment, but I did want a bit more from that twist.
Clara lives on an island where everybody knows everybody, and the summer consists of eating mangoes in hideouts and hanging out with your friends. The only downside to Clara's life is that ever since the storm last summer she can't remember anything that happened, not even when prompted by her mother or best friend Gaynah. Can anything stir up her forgotten summer memories? Or are some memories best left in the dark?
I really enjoyed the whole atmosphere for this story. Set on a tropical island, it's filled with descriptions of lush vegetation and heat waves which really added to the colourful vibes of the story. There's also a really strong sense of community scattered throughout which I loved. Everyone helps each other, they all see each other as an extended family (and a lot of the time they actually are family anyway) with the whole village turning up for everyone's life events. It feels safe and loving, making the reader feel safe and cared for too.
The plot is nice too. It meanders at the start, as we see Clara going about her daily summer life and seeing the trials and tribulations of a typical 12 year old girl. Her family has some problems, there's tension with the Pastor, but generally it seems a gentle life with a little undercurrent of mystery about last summer and Clara's uncle who lives a solitary outcast life in a big house on the hill. Then that twist comes out of left field and punches you in the gut. Honestly, did not see it coming. At all. It's very well written into the story, almost as though you should have expected it all along and weaves the explanation into the plot quite organically. I just wish it had been explored a bit more, and in great depth.
Good contemporary middle grade with a plot twist you won't expect. Loveable characters and a great setting only add to the enjoyment, but I did want a bit more from that twist.
December 18, 2020
[ARC Provided by NetGalley, my review is unbiased]
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📗 I loved this book, there's something just so unique and special about it, and Clara's voice is quiet, but powerful. I loved the small town girl / big city girl dynamic as Rudy moves to town and becomes friends with Clara, and neither girl shuns the other's culture, happy to learn from the other.
📕 I really felt welcomed to Clara's small village of Sycamore, I usually prefer cities over small towns, but the community spirit and the way they were all a big family that loved each other and took care of each other made me understand the appeal and I loved every moment I spent there.
📘 This is a hot, summery middle grade with constant sense of mystery, as Clara refuses to deal with the painful memories of the summer before. No longer pursuing her passion, surfing, she seems extremely afraid of water, but cannot fully understand why.
📙 When Clara finally confronts her memories of the summer before and we find out what happened, I really wasn't expecting the big reveal that we got and I was blown away, I'm pretty sure my mouth actually dropped.
📒 The ending is so good, wrapping the story up perfectly and letting me know that Clara was going to be okay, and she was starting to move on with her life, with the love and support of her friends and family. I would love a sequel with a POV switch to Rudy, who really stood out to me.
Wordpress Blog | Twitter | Pinterest
📗 I loved this book, there's something just so unique and special about it, and Clara's voice is quiet, but powerful. I loved the small town girl / big city girl dynamic as Rudy moves to town and becomes friends with Clara, and neither girl shuns the other's culture, happy to learn from the other.
📕 I really felt welcomed to Clara's small village of Sycamore, I usually prefer cities over small towns, but the community spirit and the way they were all a big family that loved each other and took care of each other made me understand the appeal and I loved every moment I spent there.
📘 This is a hot, summery middle grade with constant sense of mystery, as Clara refuses to deal with the painful memories of the summer before. No longer pursuing her passion, surfing, she seems extremely afraid of water, but cannot fully understand why.
📙 When Clara finally confronts her memories of the summer before and we find out what happened, I really wasn't expecting the big reveal that we got and I was blown away, I'm pretty sure my mouth actually dropped.
📒 The ending is so good, wrapping the story up perfectly and letting me know that Clara was going to be okay, and she was starting to move on with her life, with the love and support of her friends and family. I would love a sequel with a POV switch to Rudy, who really stood out to me.
August 19, 2021
A heartfelt and surprising story of loss, friendship and community.
This was a truly gorgeous read and, despite being written for young readers, featured some twists and turns that totally took me by surprise. I’d happily recommend this book to children and adults alike who are looking for a warm, emotional and ultimately hopeful read.
This was a truly gorgeous read and, despite being written for young readers, featured some twists and turns that totally took me by surprise. I’d happily recommend this book to children and adults alike who are looking for a warm, emotional and ultimately hopeful read.
October 17, 2020
Clara lives on an island in a tight knit village with people who feel so familiar. It's small and seaside so no one ever visits and no one really leaves. There's the grouchy old woman whom seems to dislike everyone but everyone does what she needs without question. There's the pastor that's overly judgmental. Clara's cousin Gaynah who she gets along with one minute and is at odd's with the next. And there's her ostracized uncle who everyone calls a witch doctor.
It's a slow starter but it's a well written book about friendship with a bit of mystery mixed in. Clara is suffering from memory loss and has trouble recalling the events of last summer which have left her shaken. She once loved the water but now has a fear of it. Clara's whole neighborhood seems to be judging her until one day a new girl comes to visit from NY. The new girl Rudy doesn't judge her for her behavior or make her feel inferior.
This was a beautiful story with an unexpected twists that starts out quiet but leaves a lasting impression.
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
It's a slow starter but it's a well written book about friendship with a bit of mystery mixed in. Clara is suffering from memory loss and has trouble recalling the events of last summer which have left her shaken. She once loved the water but now has a fear of it. Clara's whole neighborhood seems to be judging her until one day a new girl comes to visit from NY. The new girl Rudy doesn't judge her for her behavior or make her feel inferior.
This was a beautiful story with an unexpected twists that starts out quiet but leaves a lasting impression.
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
May 31, 2025
داستان روان و آرومی داشت و خوندنش برام لذتبخش بود، اما توصیفات خیلی کوتاه بودن و عملاً تصویرسازی ذهنی رو سخت میکرد.
پلاتتوییست ش رو واقعاً دوست داشتم، برام خیلی غیرمنتظره بود.
تنها چیزی که اذیتم کرد ترجمهاش بود؛ اصلاً خوب نبود و در نهایت مجبور شدم با متن انگلیسی ادامه بدم.
پلاتتوییست ش رو واقعاً دوست داشتم، برام خیلی غیرمنتظره بود.
تنها چیزی که اذیتم کرد ترجمهاش بود؛ اصلاً خوب نبود و در نهایت مجبور شدم با متن انگلیسی ادامه بدم.
June 24, 2020
This book, wow. Just wow. I don't even know where to begin to unpack all of the fantastic things about this book. As a middle grade, I really didn't expect the themes that were prevalent, including intense relationships with family, friendship and loss/grief through the eyes of a child. This book wasn't even remotely mysterious, but the plot twist was incredibly unexpected.
I had so many different ideas of what would have happened in this book, all of which were much less exciting than the actual outcome and I am so glad I was given the chance to read this book.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I had so many different ideas of what would have happened in this book, all of which were much less exciting than the actual outcome and I am so glad I was given the chance to read this book.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2020
A short and sweet little story focused on family and friendship. I loved the underlying mystery behind Clara's lost memories. The twist that was revealed by the end was very unexpected which was surprising seeing as this is a middle grade. Overall I had a fun time reading this one!
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC!
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC!
September 27, 2025
I had no clue what this was about when I picked this up. I did enjoy this and I liked the discussion about friendships and family. There is a twist that happen that I did not see coming. Which I really enjoyed. I also really liked learning a little bit about Jamaica.
January 15, 2021
A beautiful book 📖 ❤ had trouble putting it down and didn't want it to end:)
January 25, 2021
Rep: Jamaican cast & setting, mc with PTSD(?)
May 30, 2022
This book surprised me in a lot of ways. It had a beautiful lyrical writing style which I loved, and it was quite atmospheric, sort of summer-y and sweet. At the same time, it was kinda dark because there was a lot of mystery surrounding something. Like, I had no idea what was going on with the story. It was just about the main character's everyday life, until the plot twist hit me. I actually guessed it when I was 50% through, but it was still shocking nonetheless.
My only issue is that this book had a lot of characters, a lot of names that I can't even remember now. I listened to the audiobook while doing a lot of other things, and I think that's what pulled me from the story. It just had a lot of characters, and it's hard to follow them all when you had your focus split into two things. It's 100% my fault, but really that's my only problem. I probably need to reread this book to understand the characters better and to look for some hidden hints because the twist actually shocked me. Overall, I will recommend this book to anyone who wants something quick and fun, but has some mysterious thing going on.
My only issue is that this book had a lot of characters, a lot of names that I can't even remember now. I listened to the audiobook while doing a lot of other things, and I think that's what pulled me from the story. It just had a lot of characters, and it's hard to follow them all when you had your focus split into two things. It's 100% my fault, but really that's my only problem. I probably need to reread this book to understand the characters better and to look for some hidden hints because the twist actually shocked me. Overall, I will recommend this book to anyone who wants something quick and fun, but has some mysterious thing going on.
September 30, 2020
When Life Gives You Mangoes is a riveting debut middle-grade novel set on a small Caribbean island. This book explores a variety of important themes ranging from friendships, community, the influence of religion and superstition in Caribbean communities, and the impact of trauma on children. Packed with charming scenes of island life and peeks into childhood on a small island, this book is a perfect selection for those looking to read more culturally diverse middle grade literature. I can’t wait to read whatever Kereen Getten writes next.
Read my full review on my blog.
Thanks to Poppy Stimpson and Pushkin Press for an eARC of this book.
Read my full review on my blog.
Thanks to Poppy Stimpson and Pushkin Press for an eARC of this book.
February 27, 2021
3.5 stars. very sweet and short middle grade!
December 18, 2020
In a mango-sweet new middle grade novel, Kereen Getten, tells the story of 12-year old Clara. Clara lives in a small seaside town in Jamaica. Clara loves living on the island. She loves eating fresh ripe mangos and running around in the rain. She has a secret hangout where she spends time with her best friend. There is just one thing. Clara has a gap in her memory about what happened last summer after a hurricane.
This was a moving novel about friendship and family. Clara learns about connections and misunderstandings. She develops a new friendship and sees an old one evolve. There is a lot of drama and tension in the small town but even so, the townsfolk care for their own. There is a good message of being open & understanding and trying to mend rifts.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
This was a moving novel about friendship and family. Clara learns about connections and misunderstandings. She develops a new friendship and sees an old one evolve. There is a lot of drama and tension in the small town but even so, the townsfolk care for their own. There is a good message of being open & understanding and trying to mend rifts.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
February 11, 2021
I don’t usually read books such as this but the cover alone spoke to me, it’s gorgeous! And while branching out into more cultural books this popped on my radar. And I’m glad that it did!
It’s a cute quick read that I didn’t expect much from, I barley knew what it was about other than ‘best friends fighting and memory loss’, which I would only go into this book knowing that/holding on to that knowledge because it makes the book ten times better when it gets to the twist, which once again I was NOT expecting, my jaw literally dropped.
So, if you’re looking for a quick and easy read filled with cuteness, mystery, the joys of youth, with a tinge of supernatural mixed in: I HIGHLY recommend giving this book a go!
It’s a cute quick read that I didn’t expect much from, I barley knew what it was about other than ‘best friends fighting and memory loss’, which I would only go into this book knowing that/holding on to that knowledge because it makes the book ten times better when it gets to the twist, which once again I was NOT expecting, my jaw literally dropped.
So, if you’re looking for a quick and easy read filled with cuteness, mystery, the joys of youth, with a tinge of supernatural mixed in: I HIGHLY recommend giving this book a go!
August 13, 2023
3.5 STARS
Really wish I hadn't been spoiled for this one!
Really wish I hadn't been spoiled for this one!
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