Book Review: Front Desk by Kelly Yang

by Nae McNeail, age 13

Front Desk is a partly true story about author Kelly Yang’s childhood, highlighting the importance of hard work and perseverance.

Ten-year-old Mia Tang is the main character of Front Desk, the first of a series of books. Mia was born in China and moved to the United States when she was younger. Since her family was not rich, her parents searched for work. Mia’s parents found employment at the Calavista Motel, a real motel in Anaheim, California. Mia’s parents do not want her to become injured while working, so she helps the family by working the front desk, and welcoming the guests. The Tang family was able to live at the motel, which was great for them since they did not have the money to afford a home. While at the front desk, Mia meets Hank. Hank is one of the weeklies, which is what they call permanent residents at the Calivista Motel.

Their boss and owner of the motel, Mr. Yao, is a bitter man who makes life difficult for the family, making them work long hours and speaking rudely to them. Mr. Yao has a son, named Jason. The apple doesn't fall too far from the tree, because Jason also gives Mia a hard time. Mia will not stand for bullying, creating a dynamic in which Jason and Mia both pull pranks on each other and are mean to one another. Despite all of this, as the story unfolds, a friendship is created.

How could we forget about Lupe? Lupe is Mia’s best friend. They are always there for each other, especially when one is feeling down. Lupe’s father, Jose, is a cable man. Coincidentally, he also works at the Calivista.

The story follows the growth, challenges, and successes of the Tang family as a whole, as well as Mia’s personal development and the relationships she creates.

This book is good for anyone in fifth to seventh grade. I like how relatable and fun it is to read! Mia’s life story is extremely interesting. The reader can surely put themselves in Mia’s shoes and try to understand her experiences, as well as how she manages to push through like a boss. There are plenty of times in which Mia feels like giving up, but she always tries to find the silver lining.

A big takeaway from the book is that the author attempts to convey to the reader that not everyone enjoys the luxury of living in a house or apartment, the book explores life difficulties, and how Mia overcomes them with her head held high. I would absolutely recommend readers to begin to follow Mia’s journey by reading Front Desk BY Kelly Yang.