Self Publishing Titans
The Mango Tree: A Memoir of Fruit, Florida, and Felony
by Annabelle Tometich, Little, Brown & Company
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Language
English
Publisher
Little, Brown & Company
Available Formats & Prices
View on AmazonKindle
$14.99
Hardcover
$21.49
Audiobook
$19.10
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About This Book
This “witty, humorous, and heartfelt“ (Cinelle Barnes) memoir navigates the tangled branches of Annabelle Tometich’s life, from growing up in Florida as the child of and a Filipino mother and a deceased white father to her adult life as a med-school-reject-turned-food-critic. When journalist Annabelle Tometich picks up the phone one June morning, she isn’t expecting a collect call from an inmate at the Lee County Jail. And when she accepts, she certainly isn’t prepared to hear her mother’s voice on the other end of the line.
However, explaining the situation to her younger siblings afterwards was easy; all she had to say was, “Mom shot at some guy. He was messing with her mangoes.” They immediately understood. Answering the questions of the breaking-news reporter—at the same newspaper where Annabelle worked as a restaurant critic—proved more difficult.
Annabelle decided to go with a variation of the truth: it was complicated. So begins The Mango Tree , a poignant and deceptively entertaining memoir of growing up as a mixed-race Filipina “nobody” in suburban Florida as Annabelle traces the roots of her upbringing—all the while reckoning with her erratic father’s untimely death in a Fort Myers motel, her fiery mother’s bitter yearning for the country she left behind, and her own journey in the pursuit of belonging. With clear-eyed compassion and piercing honesty, The Mango Tree is a family saga that navigates the tangled branches of Annabelle’s life, from her childhood days in an overflowing house flooded by balikbayan boxes, vegetation, and juicy mangoes, to her winding path from medical school hopeful to restaurant critic.
It is a love letter to her fellow Filipino Americans, her lost younger self, and the beloved fruit tree at the heart of her family. But above all, it is an ode to Annabelle’s hot-blooded, whip-smart mother Josefina, a woman who made a life and a home of her own, and without whom Annabelle would not have herself.
Introduction
When Beth Hackenson first set foot in the sun-drenched paradise of Florida, she could hardly imagine the eccentric adventures awaiting her beneath the lush branches of a mango tree. From the sweet aroma of ripe fruit to an unexpected encounter with the law, Beth's path is as unpredictable as it is stirring. Her memoir seamlessly blends humor and poignancy, capturing the vibrant essence of Florida and the tumultuous events that unfold under the tropical canopy.
Key Takeaways
Beth's journey highlights the paramountcy of seizing moments of serendipity in life's unpredictability. The memoir stresses how seemingly mundane elements intertwine to create extraordinary tales. A dynamic interplay of wit warmth and wisdom offers a fresh perspective on growth through adversity.
Detailed Description
Beth Hackenson's memoir engages readers with an enchanting narrative brimming with charm and intrigue. Her lighthearted recount of life in Florida is painted vividly against the vibrant backdrop of mango-laden trees inviting readers to share in her joy and wonder. Though sweetness surrounds her the occasional brushes with law enforcement infuse true-storied tension into each page catapulting readers into the heart of her extraordinary yet relatable journey.
At the center of Beth's story are the beautiful complexities of friendship family and self-discovery—all blossoming from unexpected circumstances. Her prose poignantly examines how joys and conflicts intertwine challenging and shaping the human experience. Whether in search of humor inspiration or a soulful glimpse into life's unpredictable nature readers will find themselves irresistibly drawn into the unfolding narrative of Beth's vibrant memoir celebrated among the sun-soaked trees of Florida.
Standout Features
The Mango Tree captivates audiences with its masterful storytelling effortlessly weaving together Beth Hackenson's real-life events in ways that surprise and delight readers at every turn Its authentic portrayal of Florida's lush landscapes and dynamic culture offers a refreshing escape and the unforeseen twists on a seemingly ordinary journey keep readers engaged Beth’s memoir remains a beacon of originality as it seamlessly balances the buoyancy of humor with the depths of introspective wisdom offering solace and enlightenment to readers seeking both entertainment and inspiration.
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Based on 271 ratings
Customer Reviews
Great story
I recently had the pleasure of delving into a memoir that not only captivated my attention but also left me yearning for more. From its well-crafted prose to its poignant narrative, this book kept me eagerly turning pages until the very end. One of the most impressive aspects of this memoir is its exceptional writing. The author's prose is both eloquent and engaging, drawing readers into her world with vivid descriptions and heartfelt reflections. From the very first page, I found myself immersed in her story, eager to uncover the twists and turns that awaited. What truly sets this memoir apart, however, is the author's remarkable ability to infuse humor into even the most challenging of circumstances. Despite facing difficult trials and tribulations, she approaches her experiences with wit and levity, finding moments of joy and laughter amidst the chaos. This balance of humor and sincerity adds depth and authenticity to her storytelling, making it all the more compelling. As I journeyed alongside the author through the ups and downs of her life, I found myself deeply moved by her resilience and strength. Her ability to navigate adversity with grace and humor is truly inspiring, leaving a lasting impression on readers long after the final page has been turned. In conclusion, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment spent immersed in this memoir. From its well-written prose to its heartfelt narrative, it is a book that stays with you, long after you've finished reading. I eagerly await the author's next literary endeavor, eager to embark on another captivating journey with her at the helm.
good Read
This is a great introduction to immigrant culture. Learning how people survive in a new environment. A very interesting read. And for the record, I had a Brilliant but very eccentric mother. She was a hoarder also. It’s a trait that is very hard to deal with.
fantastic and relatable
I don't remember who convinced me to add this book to my library list, but I'm so glad I did. I laughed, I cried, and I'm so impressed that the book left me with this unquenchable sense of empowerment. It's beautiful, witty, poignant, and, poetic: an unflinchingly honest and relatable memoir. I really relate to the confusion and complexity of understanding immigrant parents who refuse to open up and "cope" through maladaptive behaviors, and I know many others will as well. Thank you for sharing your life and Jo's, Annabelle!!
A true view of south Florida and all it's weirdness-- heartfelt and hilarious
The guy who cleans my pool recommended this book. No, it's not where I usually get my book recommendations --and I read memoirs very, very rarely. I took a chance because Bill was so enthusiastic. So glad I did!! This book is a true gem. It starts at brisk pace-- with an arrest for an "oh so Florida" crime-- involving a mango tree. I loved the descriptions of family dynamics and the author's heritage, culture, and career. It is the best memoir I've ever read-- hands down. Even if you are not particularly a fan of the genre, please take a chance on this book. You will not regret it. I now own the kindle and hard copy versions. The hard copy is ensconced in a guest room so friends and relatives can enjoy. The author lives in Fort Myers and so do I, although we've never met. She has truly captured the atmosphere, the people, and the strange Florida ways perfectly. Before I moved to Florida from northern Virginia my friends and I would read Carl Hiaasen novels and laugh out loud at the incredibly impossible tales. Later, when I moved to FL, I realized all the "Florida Man" stories were true. Mr. Hiaasen must have toned things down to make the books seem remotely possible for non-Floridians. As you read The Mango Tree, you may find it hard to believe as a memoir. For Floridians-- we know it as absolute truth and not so out of the ordinary for here. There isn't anyone I know in my neighborhood that does not have a mango tree story. You'd be surprised how often we have news stories about mango tree crimes here. For me the real joy of the book is way the author brings her childhood challenges to life, especially the racism she experiences and the mental heath issues struggles of her mom. The descriptions of family interactions -priceless, with humor throughout the heartbreak. The writing is superb. Yes, the author is an experienced journalist and food critic, but is an absolutely spectacular debut book. So, mango crimes, not so hard to believe. First time.. hit it out of the park book.. much harder to believe but very, very true! I cannot wait for her next book and to see this book as a bestseller!!
