About This Book
A Mango-Shaped Space introduces Mia Winchell, a 13-year-old with synesthesia, a neurological condition where senses intertwine, causing her to see sounds and words as colors. Mia has kept her "gift" a secret, fearing she's a freak, which leads to feelings of isolation and misunderstanding with her family and friends. The novel chronicles her intense journey of self-discovery as she learns to understand and appreciate her unique perception, often after facing significant challenges, including a profound loss. This book is ideal for middle-grade readers (ages 10-14) and offers a poignant exploration of identity, acceptance, and empathy.
Thirteen-year-old Mia Winchell has a secret: sounds, numbers, and words appear to her in color. Mia has synesthesia, the mingling of perceptions whereby a person sees sounds or tastes shapes. This coming-of-age novel chronicles Mia's developing appreciation for her gift.
Character Death
Discussion Prompts
1
What is synesthesia, and how does Mia experience it?
2
Why did Mia keep her synesthesia a secret for so long? Have you ever kept a secret because you were afraid of how others would react?
3
How do Mia's family and friends react when they learn about her condition? How do their reactions change over time?
4
What role does Mia's cat, Mango, play in her journey of self-discovery?
5
How does Mia's understanding of her 'gift' change from the beginning to the end of the book?
6
What does this book teach us about being different and accepting ourselves and others?
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