A review by serendipitysbooks
Front Desk by Kelly Yang

emotional hopeful lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

 Front Desk is the story of Mia Tang, a ten year old Chinese immigrant who often works at the front desk of the motel complex she lives in with her parents while they are hard at work cleaning the units. The book explores many of the difficulties migrant families face - poverty, lack of health insurance, loan sharks, illegal and exploitative working conditions, racism, generational conflict and more yet these were handled in way that was appropriate for the intended audience. Mia is a really likeable protagonist with determination and a good-getter attitude, someone who not only wants to help her family but who goes out of her way to help others and stand-up for what she knows to be right. The happy and heartwarming ending is a nice counter to some of the tougher themes. I loved the way this book highlights the significant positive differences children Mia’s age can make in the world. The author’s note at the end adds some valuable context and details how parts of the story are based on her own life experience. 
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