TL;DR
"Front Desk" by Kelly Yang follows ten-year-old Mia Tang, who manages a motel while navigating her immigrant family's struggles, secret lives, and her dreams of becoming a writer.
What is Front Desk about
"Front Desk" is a poignant middle-grade novel that tells the story of Mia Tang, a ten-year-old girl who lives and works at the Calivista Motel with her immigrant parents. The book explores various themes such as the immigrant experience, the challenges of racism, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Mia is determined to help her parents, who secretly shelter other immigrants in the motel, and is passionate about writing, despite her mother's preference for math. The story unfolds as Mia balances her responsibilities at the front desk, the secrets she must keep, and her aspirations for the future, all set against the backdrop of prejudice and financial struggles.
Front Desk 5 Key Takeaways
Mia's Life at the Motel
Mia Tang lives in the Calivista Motel, managing the front desk while her parents clean rooms, showcasing her resilience and responsibility at just ten years old.
The Secret of Helping Immigrants
Mia's parents secretly allow immigrants to stay in empty rooms, highlighting their compassion and the risks involved as they face Mr. Yao, the motel owner.
Conflict with Mr. Yao
Mr. Yao's unfair treatment creates tension, representing the exploitation of immigrant workers and the challenges they face in achieving their dreams.
Mia's Writing Aspirations
Despite her mother's insistence on focusing on math, Mia dreams of being a writer, symbolizing her desire to express her identity and experiences.
Community Building
As Mia interacts with diverse guests, she begins to understand the importance of community and solidarity among those who face similar struggles.
Top Front Desk Quotes
- "Every person has a story worth telling, and I want to be the one to tell mine."
- "Kindness is a strength, not a weakness. It takes courage to be kind in a world that often isn't."
- "Dreams don't have to be big; they just have to be yours."
Who should read Front Desk?
"Front Desk" is ideal for middle-grade readers, particularly those aged 8-12, who are interested in stories about resilience, diversity, and the immigrant experience. The book provides valuable lessons on empathy, community, and pursuing one's dreams, making it both educational and inspiring for young audiences.
Front Desk Best Reviews
- "Front Desk is a heartfelt and inspiring story that sheds light on the immigrant experience with grace and humor." - The New York Times
- "Yang's writing is engaging and relatable, making Mia's struggles resonate with readers of all ages." - School Library Journal
- "A beautiful exploration of resilience, family, and the importance of community within a diverse context." - Kirkus Reviews
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Front Desk FAQs
What age group is "Front Desk" appropriate for?
"Front Desk" is recommended for readers aged 8-12, making it suitable for middle-grade readers and those who enjoy heartfelt, relatable stories.
Is "Front Desk" based on a true story?
While "Front Desk" is a work of fiction, it is inspired by Kelly Yang's own childhood experiences, blending real-life elements with creative storytelling.
What are the main themes explored in "Front Desk"?
The novel explores themes of the immigrant experience, resilience, racial intolerance, community building, and the pursuit of dreams, providing a rich narrative that resonates with young readers.