Front Desk (Front Desk #1) (Scholastic Gold)

Absolutely loved this book!! Loved all of the issues that this book brought up...racial discrimination, poverty, immigration. But I absolutely loved the overall theme of perseveration! Highly recommend!!

This is a great book about the immigrant experience in America, particularly that of the Chinese who moved to the U.S. in the 1980s and 1990s looking for a better life and more freedom. Mia Tang helps her parents, who work at a motel, by running the front desk. She checks-in customers, makes change, and tries to give everyone a better experience. She is an admirable character in many ways, looking to right wrongs and help others. I was particularly impressed with this book when I learned it was based on a true story and that the author had worked at a hotel at a very young age. The immigrants had no medical insurance and were relegated to the worst jobs at the lowest pay. Sometimes they fell prey to loan sharks and ended up on the run or living out of their cars. They had their passports and visas confiscated and were forced to work like slaves. This book also compares life in China to life in the U.S. and gives background on the Cultural Revolution in China and the suppression of free expression. At one point, I questioned Mia's ethics when she was considering breaking into the Yao's house to get her precious favorite pencil back from Jason Yao, who stole it. Mia's parents have to cope with an unfair boss and Mia is bullied at school based on her clothes. She is bright and always thinking of writing letters to right wrongs, and surprisingly, she is successful in most of her endeavors. I like how she doesn't sit back and complain, but actually takes action. Kids will be inspired by her spunky attitude.

It was an amazing book! I'm going to read this series! The three keys and Room to dream and I love kelly yang's books now! Thank you for her amazing books!

A great JF book that is full of living ideas. We used this one for school and both kids enjoyed and made many connections with topics we have covered in the past, including immigration, racism, perfectionism, and perserverance. Mia's edited letters also helped to normalise the editing process, which has improved our writing lessons. Recommended for ages 8-12, but teens & adults will also enjoy

What a wonderful book for all ages. Full of heart, hope, and determination- I loved it and it's messages of working hard, tolerance, and diversity.