Everyone in her small Jamaican town of Sycamore understands that Clara, 12, who used to love surfing, doesn't go near the water anymore. Clara knows it's because of what happened the previous summer, she just doesn't remember what actually took place -no one is willing to talk about it, Clara most of all. She's since had a falling out with her former best friend and cousin, Gaynah, unable to tolerate Gaynah's meanness anymore. Clara is aware the silence surrounding what happened isn't the only thing people don't talk about in her family and town. There is the mystery surrounding her Uncle Eldorath, who lives a solitary life away from the village, vilified by rumors started by their pastor for reasons no one will explain to her. And there's been silence of a different kind in the life of Ms. Gee in the years of estrangement from her daughter in New York, although that may finally be changing; Ms. Gee's visiting granddaughter, Rudy, is Clara's new friend. There's a stunning surprise near the end of this story in which healing for Clara begins with acknowledging the trauma, grief, and loss of her past. A novel imbued with a marvelous sense of place also examines the complexities of community and human nature through singular characters whose actions occasionally undermine but most often sustain one another. (Ages 9-12)

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