FRONT DESK by Kelly Yang

 

Inspired by some of her own experiences, Chinese-American author Kelly Yang shares what it is like to grow up in California. FRONT DESK is perfect for a read-aloud for 5th grade and up with tons of opportunities for discussion of the immigrant experience.

Mia is constantly reminded why she and her family left China to come to the United States. It was for freedom and opportunity, but as far as Mia is concerned, it doesn't seem like there is much of either one. Her parents were both professionals in China and now they are thrilled if they can get jobs working in restaurants as dishwashers and servers. When they are offered the chance to manage a motel for Mr. Yao, they are hopeful that things are looking up.

While Mia's parents work to clean rooms and take care of the building and grounds, Mia works at the front desk. She loves greeting people and checking them into their rooms, but things don't always go smoothly. Missing keys, requests for extra pillows, and wake-up calls prove to be challenging. There is the constant worry about threatening people who might cause trouble for her parents or for the weekly renters who have become like family for Mia.

School is challenging as well. Mr. Yao's annoying son Jason is in Mia's class. At first she thought she was lucky to have another Chinese kid in her class, but Jason is as big a bully as the other kids. Learning to write in English is fun for Mia, but her teacher's criticisms are often hard to take. Finding Lupe as a best friend gives Mia some hope that living in America can be good.

FRONT DESK is fast-paced with short chapters that will keep readers turning pages to find out what Mia's next adventure will be.