Sita Singh’s ‘Mango Memories’ Wins Gold at Florida Book Awards

Indian American children’s author Sita Singh has been honored with the Gold Medal in the Young Children’s Literature category at the 2024 Florida Book Awards for her picture book, Mango Memories. This accolade highlights Singh’s heartfelt storytelling and her dedication to preserving generational traditions through literature.

A Journey of Tradition and Perseverance

Mango Memories narrates the story of a young Indian girl eager to create her first mango-picking memory, inspired by her family’s rich heritage. Each summer, her family’s mango tree becomes laden with fruit, and this year, she is finally old enough to participate in the harvest. However, her initial attempts are met with challenges. Her brother recounts his first experience, where their father held him steady to reach the high branches, but when she tries to climb, dizziness overcomes her. Her grandmother shares a technique from her youth, using a stone to knock the mangoes down, yet the girl’s throws miss their mark. Despite these setbacks, her determination to forge her own mango memory remains unwavering.

Set against the backdrop of a lush mango grove, the narrative not only explores themes of perseverance and familial bonds but also serves as a window into South Asian culture for young readers unfamiliar with these traditions.

Author’s Background and Inspiration

Originally hailing from Ahmedabad, India, Sita Singh now resides in South Florida. She embarked on her writing journey to address the noticeable absence of South Asian representation in children’s literature. Her debut book, Birds of a Feather, garnered significant attention and was selected for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, underscoring her commitment to diversity and inclusion in storytelling.

Singh’s inspiration is deeply rooted in her own experiences. Growing up in a multigenerational household, she was profoundly influenced by her grandmother’s oral storytelling traditions. These familial narratives have become the cornerstone of her work, as she strives to share the rich tapestry of her cultural heritage with a broader audience.

Upcoming Works and Continued Dedication

Singh’s passion for storytelling continues with upcoming titles that further delve into South Asian traditions and experiences. Let’s Celebrate Diwali, slated for release in the summer of 2025, aims to introduce young readers to the vibrant festival of lights, emphasizing themes of joy, community, and cultural significance. Following that, Indigo Hands, expected in the spring of 2026, promises to explore yet another facet of South Asian heritage, though specific details remain eagerly anticipated by her growing readership.

Recognition and Ceremony

The Florida Book Awards, coordinated by Florida State University Libraries, is a prestigious statewide literary competition that honors outstanding books published within the year. In its 2024 cycle, the awards received over 190 submissions across 11 categories. A panel of jurors meticulously evaluated each entry, ultimately selecting 31 winners who exemplify excellence in their respective genres.

Sita Singh, along with her fellow awardees, will be formally recognized at the Abitz Family Dinner & Awards Banquet on April 3, 2025, at Cascades Park in Tallahassee. This event not only celebrates the achievements of the winners but also serves as a gathering of literary minds dedicated to enriching the cultural and educational fabric of society through their works.

Impact on Readers and the Literary Community

Singh’s recognition at the Florida Book Awards signifies more than personal achievement; it reflects a growing acknowledgment of the importance of diverse voices in children’s literature. By weaving stories that celebrate South Asian culture, traditions, and familial bonds, Singh offers young readers both a mirror to see themselves and a window into the experiences of others. Her work contributes to a more inclusive literary landscape, fostering empathy, understanding, and a celebration of multiculturalism among the next generation of readers.