Scan barcode
ambi_reads's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
sad
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
When Life Gives You Mangos is my first #ReadCaribbean for 2021 and possibly one of my most favored reads of 2021. It follows Clara Dee-Hansen, a twelve year old girl living on Sycamore Hill, Jamaica. Her along with her friends are trying to enjoy their summer vacation. There's even a new girl in town. Clara however is a mystery because she forgot what happened last summer and it is now coming back to her in glimpses. Is her best friend, Gaynah, really a true friend? Why are the villagers not friendly with her Uncle Eldorath? Are the rumors true?
There is so much to say about this book! Firstly, the perspective of a twelve year old girl was exceptionally well done. You were able to see all the faults, goodness, inquisitiveness and so much more through Clara's eyes. I thoroughly enjoyed the Jamaican setting. I have never been but it really made me feel like I was living in the country! I too want to play pick leaf and surf with Clara, Gaynah, Rudy, Anton and Calvin.
Although it is a middle grade book, I think it is one EVERYONE should read! We can all learn a lot from it. Some of the things I learnt or were nudged to remember are as follows:
1. We don't always know what's best for us.
2. Our perspective can cloud the clarity and truth of a situation or person.
3. Adults can learn a lot from children and vice versa.
4. It is okay to be different. That's the only way you stand out.
5. While someone is being rude to you, you do not need to do the same onto them.
6. You allow power to your reactions. Do not let people tempt you.
7. Family, friendships and love are the most precious things in life.
What I adored about this novel also was the amazing parenting being seen by Clara's parents. They gave her space. They also knew how special she was and reminded her as such. They knew to not let anyone do their jobs.
Lastly, THAT TWIST AT THE END ON THE NOVEL! I DID NOT EXPECT IT! I now want to re-read the novel to pick up on the clues I missed previously. I really enjoyed seeing how we all depend on each other in some form or the other. I enjoyed seeing the togetherness of the villagers as old bridges were overcame. I already miss the adventures on Sycamore Hill and would not mind returning to it again one day, whether it be in a sequel (hint hint @Kereen Getten), or the original story.
There is so much to say about this book! Firstly, the perspective of a twelve year old girl was exceptionally well done. You were able to see all the faults, goodness, inquisitiveness and so much more through Clara's eyes. I thoroughly enjoyed the Jamaican setting. I have never been but it really made me feel like I was living in the country! I too want to play pick leaf and surf with Clara, Gaynah, Rudy, Anton and Calvin.
Although it is a middle grade book, I think it is one EVERYONE should read! We can all learn a lot from it. Some of the things I learnt or were nudged to remember are as follows:
1. We don't always know what's best for us.
2. Our perspective can cloud the clarity and truth of a situation or person.
3. Adults can learn a lot from children and vice versa.
4. It is okay to be different. That's the only way you stand out.
5. While someone is being rude to you, you do not need to do the same onto them.
6. You allow power to your reactions. Do not let people tempt you.
7. Family, friendships and love are the most precious things in life.
What I adored about this novel also was the amazing parenting being seen by Clara's parents. They gave her space. They also knew how special she was and reminded her as such. They knew to not let anyone do their jobs.
Lastly, THAT TWIST AT THE END ON THE NOVEL! I DID NOT EXPECT IT! I now want to re-read the novel to pick up on the clues I missed previously. I really enjoyed seeing how we all depend on each other in some form or the other. I enjoyed seeing the togetherness of the villagers as old bridges were overcame. I already miss the adventures on Sycamore Hill and would not mind returning to it again one day, whether it be in a sequel (hint hint @Kereen Getten), or the original story.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Medical trauma
Moderate: Child death and Grief
More...