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