89 pages • 2 hours read
Mariatu KamaraThe Bite of the Mango
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Middle Grade | Published in 2008A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Bite of the Mango by Mariatu Kamara follows eleven-year-old Mariatu, who lives in a small village in Sierra Leone. After being captured by rebel soldiers, her hands are amputated, and she navigates survival, pregnancy from rape, and deep depression. Eventually, she finds hope and independence through support, education, and advocacy, ultimately moving to Canada to rebuild her life. The book contains graphic depictions of violence and sexual assault.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Bite of the Mango by Mariatu Kamara is widely praised for its compelling narrative and inspiring story of resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. However, some reviewers note a lack of depth in character development. Overall, it's a powerful account that highlights the impact of civil war on individuals, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The Bite of the Mango?
Readers who appreciate heartfelt memoirs of resilience and overcoming adversity would enjoy The Bite of the Mango by Mariatu Kamara. Fans of I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai or First They Killed My Father by Loung Ung, which similarly explore personal triumphs amid harrowing circumstances, will find this book compelling.
RecommendedReading Age
14-18yearsLexile Level
800LBook Details
Military / War
History: World
Children's Literature
Biography
Life/Time: Childhood & Youth