#1 in Front Desk Series
Front Desk
on Goodreads (2,633)
What’s inside...
Mia Tang is going for the goal in the fourth Front Desk novel by New York Times bestselling author Kelly Yang! Mia Tang is play to win! The Women’s World Cup is coming to Southern California, and everyone has soccer fever―especially Mia Tang! The U.S. team is playing China in the finals, and Mia feels like her two identities are finally coming together. But when her P.E. teacher gives her a C, Mia tries to pull up her grade by scoring interviews with the championship teams. It’s not so easy when . . . 1. The two teams are hunkered down in secret hotels in Pasadena and not taking any media requests. 2. Mr. Yao is back at the motel―as a co-owner! Jason is sure his dad deserves a second chance. Mia is not so sure. 3. Mia’s parents are trying to buy a house of their very own, which turns out to be a LOT harder than they thought! As Mia aims for her goals, she'll have to face strikers from all corners, as well as her own fears. But if anyone can find a way to win big, it's Mia Tang!
Character compass
Discussion points
How did Mia's experiences at the motel change her views on friendship and family?
What challenges did Mia face and how did she overcome them?
Why do you think Mia was determined to manage the front desk?
How do the themes of empathy and perseverance show up in different parts of the story?
What did you learn about the different reasons people come to stay at the motel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on Mia’s character and her actions, encouraging your child to express their opinions and feelings about her journey.
Discuss the importance of empathy by asking your child how they would feel in Mia’s shoes in various scenarios throughout the book.
Highlight Mia's problem-solving skills and ask your child about times they had to solve a problem on their own.
Use examples from the book to talk about friendship and the value of supporting each other through tough times.
Create a family reading night where each family member reads a part from the book, enhancing the shared reading experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Front Desk', Mia's experiences working at a motel expose her to a diverse cast of characters, which boosts her empathy and understanding towards people from all walks of life.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate diversity and understand that everyone has their own story, which can help them develop healthier relationships at school and in their communities.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the novel, Mia faces various challenges but consistently demonstrates resilience and perseverance. Her continued efforts to manage the motel and support her family illustrate her strong will.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to stay determined and keep striving towards their goals despite difficulties, fostering a spirit of resilience in their personal and academic lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education
Explanation: Mia utilizes her writing and math skills to manage the motel's front desk, highlighting the practical benefits of her education.
Real-World Application: Emphasizing the value of education, this lesson can motivate children to engage more seriously with their schoolwork and understand how it applies to real-world situations.
Example Lesson: Advocacy and Standing Up for What's Right
Explanation: Mia advocates for the immigrants who come to stay at the motel, standing up against injustice and unfair treatment.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to stand up for themselves and others in the face of injustice, learning the importance of fairness and advocacy in their everyday interactions.