Haitian magical realism set in modern-day Brooklyn. Ten year-old Gabrielle immigrates to Brooklyn from Haiti to live with her aunt and uncle, with the promise that her parents will join her when they can afford it. After experiencing cruelty at the hands of her new classmates, she's desperate to find a way to be accepted in America. So, when a witch gives her a mango sliced into three pieces and tells her to make a wish for every piece she eats, Gabrielle doesn't hesitate. She wishes away her accent, her appearance - and a few things she hadn't bargained for. Witches always take payment, after all. I loved this book's playful energy and its undercurrent of serious commentary on the immigrant experience in America and the value of individualized identity. It would make a great choice for a classroom or book club read. ~ Reviewed by Nadja Tiktinsky
