A Mango-Shaped Space

Two weeks into the school year, Mia has failed two math tests. She knows that she has to tell her parents, but she is dreading it. When she finally tells them, she reminds them of the incident in the third grade and confesses that she was not lying when she said that numbers have colors. Her parents are shocked and confused, initially wondering if she is lying. Finally, they concede that they believe her and agree to take her to their family doctor to figure out what is happening. 

The next day in history class, Mia begins a group project that will be worth half of her grade. She is in a group with Roger and two other students. At lunch, Jenna talks about the birthday party that she is planning; some boys will be attending. Mia’s mother arrives halfway through lunch and takes her to her doctor’s appointment. Beth is also there; she is covered in poison ivy rashes from picking herbs the night before. The pediatrician, Dr. Randolph, admits that Mia’s problem has him stumped. He gives her a regular check-up and asks Mia to describe exactly what she sees. She tells him, but he does not seem convinced.