Confessions of a Mango

Gr 3-7–A delightful middle grade novel that teaches a lesson about the importance and value of education. Ruby considers herself the “dumb twin” because she has been ­diagnosed with dyslexia/dysgraphia. She often struggles at school, especially in math. Her twin brother Bryce has been given a place at the prestigious Benton Academy, and Ruby must attend too because of scheduling. At Benton, it is very difficult for Ruby to keep up with the other students. However, she finds a way to express herself through an anonymous online forum, calling herself an imposter “mango” among the metaphorical lovebird student body. In this space, she discovers that other students at Benton are struggling too; but can she stay under the radar and still help those in need? This realistic fiction book paints a picture of the struggles a student must face, sometimes undetected. It also brings to light how students feel about their education and their parents’ involvement in it. It reads quickly and is easy for readers to follow. The twins are cued white.