From the Bookshelf of CLCSC Pasadena Area Book Group…
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What Members Thought
I know students who will see themselves in this book. Good discussion starter for talking about immigration, racism, poverty, and empathy. Consider this for read aloud in upper grades.
This juvenile novel, some of which is based on the real experiences of the author and her family, was a delight to read. I had trouble figuring out the time period of the story, which wasn't made clear until the author's notes, but the events seemed very real. Sadly, the problems that Mia encountered, ranging from not-nice people taking advantage of immigrants to the idea that police would see one group or another as the default suspects, still occur today. There may be more ways to fight back,
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Kelly Yang’s FRONT DESK completely took me by surprise. Behind the cover’s colorful illustrations of the people of the Calivista Motel is a story that explores the complexities of the immigrant experience: the American Dream and its betrayals, racial discrimination, and class.
While this is a middle grade book that focuses on ten year old Mia (a determined and independent protagonist who I rooted for), I appreciate how Yang realistically portrays the vulnerabilities of immigrant parents who are s ...more
While this is a middle grade book that focuses on ten year old Mia (a determined and independent protagonist who I rooted for), I appreciate how Yang realistically portrays the vulnerabilities of immigrant parents who are s ...more
A grounded middle grade novel with a protagonist any kid can root for and empathize with whether they’re immigrant children or not. Well written and heartfelt, I loved this own voices author!
