Front Desk

This award-winning middle grade novel introduces Mia Tang, a spirited ten-year-old Chinese American girl whose family manages a motel in 1990s California. Mia secretly helps her parents hide undocumented immigrants while navigating the challenges of poverty and a penny-pinching, dishonest owner. The story follows Mia's journey as she finds her voice, stands up for what's right, and uses her kindness and wit to build community and pursue her dream of becoming a writer. It's a powerful story about resilience, empathy, and fighting for justice, with a hopeful and triumphant arc.

Mia Tang has a lot of secrets. Number 1. She lives in a motel, not a big house. Number 2. Her parents hide immigrants. Number 3. She wants to be a writer. It will take all of Mia's courage, kindness, and hard work to get through this year.