Fort Myers Writer Featured in Washington Post's 28 Books to Read This Summer

Annabelle Tometich's memoir "The Mango Tree" gains popularity after being featured in Washington Post's summer reading list. Readers praise its compelling storytelling.

It was the Friday before Memorial Day weekend, and Annabelle Tometich was pleasantly surprised to wake up to a Google Alert on her phone. The Washington Post had featured her new book, "The Mango Tree," as one of the '28 books to read this summer,' alongside works by renowned authors such as Percival Everett, Sunjeev Sahota, and Kristin Hannah.

For Tometich, a writer from Fort Myers, this recognition was surreal. She expressed her delight in being included among such incredible writers and felt truly honored by the acknowledgment. The news came as a wonderful surprise on that Friday morning before Memorial Day.

This was not the first time that "The Mango Tree" had received praise from The Washington Post. Previously, the memoir was listed as one of the newspaper's "10 noteworthy books for April." Released in April, the book delves into Tometich's tumultuous childhood and her complex relationship with her Filipina mother, exploring themes of love, hate, and family dynamics.

Since its release, "The Mango Tree" has garnered positive reviews from The New York Times, Southern Living, and other publications. Tometich has been thrilled by the reception at her book tour stops in Florida, Georgia, and California, where readers have embraced her story with enthusiasm.

The memoir's title, "The Mango Tree: A Memoir of Fruit, Florida, and Felony," alludes to the incident involving Tometich's mother's arrest for shooting a BB gun at alleged mango thieves. However, the book goes beyond this event to delve into Tometich's upbringing in a volatile household, her experiences with racism as a mixed-race Filipino-American, and her journey towards acceptance of her mother's flaws.

Describing the memoir, The Washington Post highlights Tometich's exploration of her mother's immigrant experience and the challenges faced by multiracial families. The book offers a poignant reflection on identity, family, and cultural complexities, resonating with readers who appreciate its depth and authenticity.

As Tometich continues to receive accolades for "The Mango Tree," she remains grateful for the support and recognition from readers and critics alike. The Washington Post's endorsement is a testament to the memoir's impact and the universal themes it addresses.

To learn more about Annabelle Tometich and her book "The Mango Tree," visit her website at annabelletometich.com. For updates on her work, follow her on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Threads, and Instagram.

Charles Runnells, an arts and entertainment reporter for The News-Press and the Naples Daily News, can be contacted at 239-335-0368 or via email at [email protected]. Connect with him on social media for more updates and insights into the world of arts and culture.