Confessions of a Mango

A heartfelt novel about a neurodivergent girl that challenges us to reexamine what makes someone "gifted," perfect for fans of Fish in a Tree and Frindle.

Ruby Emmerson has always felt like the "dumb" twin. Struggling with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, she feels out of place at her competitive charter school, especially as her twin brother Bryce excels both academically and socially. When she fails a math test despite getting extra help, she fears she'll flunk out of Benton Academy and drag her brother back to their old school.

In a moment of frustration, Ruby vents anonymously online, describing herself as an imposter--a mango among lovebirds. But to her surprise, she's far from alone.

As her account gains a following, tensions rise with her brother and her posts draw the unwanted attention of the school administration. Now, Ruby must find the courage to challenge Benton's high-pressure environment and advocate for herself and all the other "Mangoes" out there.

Author: Kate Lumsden,Nate Pieplow
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Published: 04/14/2026
Pages: 224
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.65lbs
Size: 7.70h x 5.30w x 1.00d
ISBN: 9780316586078
Audience: Ages 9-12


Review Citation(s):
School Library Journal 02/01/2026 pg. 50
Kirkus Reviews 02/01/2026
Booklist 02/01/2026
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 03/01/2026

About the Author
Kate Lumsden lives in Boulder with two awesome kids, a great husband, and two elderly cats. Growing up with dyslexia, falling in love with books changed her life. She's humbled that she now gets to write them. When she isn't writing she enjoys walking, running, and exploring the nearby mountains.

Nate Pieplow has eaten a reuben sandwich in 63 of the 64 counties in Colorado. He is the author of the two-volume Peterson Field Guide to Bird Sounds. When he isn't traveling to see birds, he teaches writing at the University of Colorado in Boulder.