Dear Lemon Lima

Vanessa Lemor, a 13-year-old Yup'ik girl, faces emotional turmoil when her first love, Philip Georgey, unexpectedly ends their relationship. This abrupt breakup leaves her feeling lost and heartbroken, as she struggles to process the end of their fleeting romance.

During the summer months in Fairbanks, Vanessa takes a job at an ice cream shack. While serving customers, she is haunted by bittersweet memories of her relationship with Philip, which are ever-present in her mind despite her efforts to move on.

Vanessa earns the only minority scholarship to Nichols Academy, a prestigious preparatory school. With hopes of rekindling her relationship with Philip, she embarks on this new chapter, unaware of the challenges that lie ahead in this elite environment.

Upon returning from summer abroad, Philip has undergone significant changes, becoming fluent in French and gaining acceptance among his peers. Vanessa, seeing his new persona, feels increasingly alienated as he begins to distance himself from her.

At Nichols Academy, Vanessa finds herself in a quirky social group known as the FUBARs, comprised of misfits including Hercules, Samantha, and Nothing. Although they bond over their outsider status, Vanessa yearns for acceptance and Philip's affection.

Philip takes on the role of Vanessa's student advisor, stirring both hope and confusion in Vanessa's heart. She remembers the values they once shared, focusing on individuality and social justice, but struggles to reconnect with him as she navigates her new life.

Misinterpreting Philip’s mentoring, Vanessa presents an anarchist essay at the school's opening ceremony. This bold move inadvertently alienates her from her classmates, further isolating her as she attempts to assert her identity in a challenging social structure.

Despite her social struggles, Vanessa is selected as the sole freshman captain for the Snowstorm Survivor competition. Inspired by the Native games featured in the World Eskimo Indian Olympics, she sees this as a chance to win Philip back and prove herself.

Believing that victory in the Snowstorm Survivor competition will win Philip's heart, Vanessa assembles an unlikely team called Team FUBAR. Together, they unite as a group of supportive individuals determined to redefine their place within the academy's strict social hierarchy.

Disaster strikes for Vanessa when a cherished teammate from Team FUBAR falls seriously ill. This unexpected crisis forces her to reflect deeply on the true meaning of love and friendship, pushing her to reconnect with her Indigenous roots and family heritage.

Amidst the challenges, Vanessa delves into her Native heritage to rediscover the spirit of the World Eskimo Indian Olympics. This journey of self-discovery becomes pivotal for her, guiding her towards understanding both personal love and cultural identity.

As the Snowstorm Survivor competition approaches, Vanessa and her team prepare intensely, fueled by a mix of determination and camaraderie. The event not only tests their competitive spirits but also helps Vanessa emerge stronger in her convictions about herself and her community.