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Front Desk #2
Three Keys
Mia Tang thinks she’s going to have the best year ever.
She and her parents are the proud owners of the Calivista Motel, Mia gets to run the front desk with her best friend, Lupe, and she’s finally getting somewhere with her writing! But as it turns out, sixth grade is no picnic…
1. Mia’s new teacher doesn’t think her writing is all that great.
2. The motel is struggling, and Mia has to answer to the Calivista’s many, many worried investors.
3. A new immigration law is looming and if it passes, it will threaten everything—and everyone—in Mia’s life.
It’s a roller coaster of challenges, and Mia needs all of her determination to hang on tight. But if anyone can find the key to getting through turbulent times, it’s Mia Tang!
She and her parents are the proud owners of the Calivista Motel, Mia gets to run the front desk with her best friend, Lupe, and she’s finally getting somewhere with her writing! But as it turns out, sixth grade is no picnic…
1. Mia’s new teacher doesn’t think her writing is all that great.
2. The motel is struggling, and Mia has to answer to the Calivista’s many, many worried investors.
3. A new immigration law is looming and if it passes, it will threaten everything—and everyone—in Mia’s life.
It’s a roller coaster of challenges, and Mia needs all of her determination to hang on tight. But if anyone can find the key to getting through turbulent times, it’s Mia Tang!
5 pages, Audiobook
First published September 15, 2020
896 people are currently reading
6712 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Yang
27 books2,371 followersKelly Yang is the New York Times bestselling, award-winning author of the FRONT DESK series, winner of the 2019 Asian Pacific American Award for Children's Literature. Her books include FRONT DESK, THREE KEYS, ROOM TO DREAM, PARACHUTES, NEW FROM HERE, and other middle grade and young adult novels. She was born in China and grew up in Los Angeles. She went to college at the age of 13 and graduated from UC Berkeley at the age of 17 and Harvard Law School at the age of 20. After law school, she founded The Kelly Yang Project, a writing and debating program for children in Asia. Prior to becoming a novelist, she wrote for many years for the South China Morning Post, The New York Times, Washington Post, and the Atlantic. She lives in Los Angeles with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,291 reviews
September 18, 2020
This was absolutely incredible. I am obsessed with Kelly Yang's middle grade.
TW: racism
TW: racism
May 21, 2021
Check out my 'reading middle grade for a magical week off' reading vlog where I talk about Three Keys: https://youtu.be/qDV2nQ5me58
This was AMAZING!!
Mia Tang is one of the best main characters I've ever read, not just in middle grade, but of any book. She is so determined to make change that she actually DOES something, and while it might not always work out straight away, just her sheer courage and passion is enough to inspire kids to do the same. And adults too, she inspires ME!
I loved the characterisations from the first book, Front Desk, and they really do carry over into Three Keys. Seeing how certain characters were more villainous in the first book and a lot more humanised in the second really shows off Yang's superior writing ability. She shows people can change in the best possible ways, and how that positive change can affect others. There is a certain teacher character I was very quick to write off, but Mia shows us what she can do with time, patience and attention. I loved it.
Definitely one of the best contemporary (though this is set in the 90s) books I've ever read.
This was AMAZING!!
Mia Tang is one of the best main characters I've ever read, not just in middle grade, but of any book. She is so determined to make change that she actually DOES something, and while it might not always work out straight away, just her sheer courage and passion is enough to inspire kids to do the same. And adults too, she inspires ME!
I loved the characterisations from the first book, Front Desk, and they really do carry over into Three Keys. Seeing how certain characters were more villainous in the first book and a lot more humanised in the second really shows off Yang's superior writing ability. She shows people can change in the best possible ways, and how that positive change can affect others. There is a certain teacher character I was very quick to write off, but Mia shows us what she can do with time, patience and attention. I loved it.
Definitely one of the best contemporary (though this is set in the 90s) books I've ever read.
November 29, 2020
This is a sequel to the wonderful book Front Desk (Front Desk). This second book I enjoyed just as much as I did the first book, perhaps even more.
It was fun to be with these people again. Mia and her friends and family and others are marvelous characters. I particularly enjoyed spending time with Mia, Lupe, Jason, Mia’s parents, Mia’s teacher, Hank, and Lupe’s father.
This is historical fiction but unfortunately the issues the characters experience are still topical. Subjects covered include racism, undocumented immigrants, and economic disparity.
This is an exceptionally good friendship story, not just of the three kids but of many of the characters and including intergenerational friendships. Mia and Lupe’s friendship did stand out. Mia’s father’s choice at the end deeply touched me.
It seems to come close to unrealistic a few times (but perhaps not since these stories are based on the author’s childhood) but even if the success of actions was glorified a bit that’s okay as empowering 11 year old kids is a laudable thing, and to encourage children & adults to be activists for what they believe is a great message. Another good message in the story is to follow your dreams and not let others dissuade you from them.
As I was reading I was thinking 4-1/2 stars and mulling over whether to give the book 5 stars or 4 stars. The personal author’s note at the back made it an easy decision: 5 stars!!! She writes poignantly about the 1994 election (which I remember, and yes I voted against the proposition pertaining to undocumented immigrants and against Wilson! I remember the other events from back then too, some heartbreaking/memorable) and how she then felt many years later when Trump came on the scene and spouted the same hatred. (Thank goodness his days are numbered but unfortunately there are millions of people who will likely keep this subject matter an always current problem.) Just as Mia and Lupe inspire others to change their minds, I hope this book will do the same. This is not a “message book” in capital letters. The powerful story/stories masterfully convey the messages through the characters’ feelings & thoughts and the events they experience.
There are some lovely quotes, including one that informs how the title gets its name:
“But you can't give up on people. It's one of the three keys of friendship. You gotta listen, you gotta care, and most importantly, you gotta keep trying.”
and
“Race might be a social construct, but racism’s as real as the clouds,” he said, pointing at the sky. “You can see it, and you can feel it when it pours.”
“The pain broke my heart into a thousand pieces.”
“the worry that if he didn’t take every single thing, a part of him would be lost forever.”
I’m delighted that there will be a book 3 out next year. Room to Dream. (Room to Dream)
It was fun to be with these people again. Mia and her friends and family and others are marvelous characters. I particularly enjoyed spending time with Mia, Lupe, Jason, Mia’s parents, Mia’s teacher, Hank, and Lupe’s father.
This is historical fiction but unfortunately the issues the characters experience are still topical. Subjects covered include racism, undocumented immigrants, and economic disparity.
This is an exceptionally good friendship story, not just of the three kids but of many of the characters and including intergenerational friendships. Mia and Lupe’s friendship did stand out. Mia’s father’s choice at the end deeply touched me.
It seems to come close to unrealistic a few times (but perhaps not since these stories are based on the author’s childhood) but even if the success of actions was glorified a bit that’s okay as empowering 11 year old kids is a laudable thing, and to encourage children & adults to be activists for what they believe is a great message. Another good message in the story is to follow your dreams and not let others dissuade you from them.
As I was reading I was thinking 4-1/2 stars and mulling over whether to give the book 5 stars or 4 stars. The personal author’s note at the back made it an easy decision: 5 stars!!! She writes poignantly about the 1994 election (which I remember, and yes I voted against the proposition pertaining to undocumented immigrants and against Wilson! I remember the other events from back then too, some heartbreaking/memorable) and how she then felt many years later when Trump came on the scene and spouted the same hatred. (Thank goodness his days are numbered but unfortunately there are millions of people who will likely keep this subject matter an always current problem.) Just as Mia and Lupe inspire others to change their minds, I hope this book will do the same. This is not a “message book” in capital letters. The powerful story/stories masterfully convey the messages through the characters’ feelings & thoughts and the events they experience.
There are some lovely quotes, including one that informs how the title gets its name:
“But you can't give up on people. It's one of the three keys of friendship. You gotta listen, you gotta care, and most importantly, you gotta keep trying.”
and
“Race might be a social construct, but racism’s as real as the clouds,” he said, pointing at the sky. “You can see it, and you can feel it when it pours.”
“The pain broke my heart into a thousand pieces.”
“the worry that if he didn’t take every single thing, a part of him would be lost forever.”
I’m delighted that there will be a book 3 out next year. Room to Dream. (Room to Dream)
October 18, 2020
Last year I feel in love with the first book in this series which is Front Desk. I was super excited when I found out that Yang was putting out a second book. While this book is still told from Mia's perspective, it focuses a lot more on Lupe's experiences as an undocumented immigrant. Mia's experience mainly focus on dealing with a bigoted teacher who looks down on immigrants and actively treats her students of color worse than the students who are white.
There are two elements that I absolutely loved about this book. The first element was the friendship between Mia and Lupe. No matter what happened, Mia stood by Lupe's side. She refused to let Lupe get discouraged. As always, Yang addressed some of the biggest issues our country is facing in terms of immigrant. Most of the events in this book are actual events that occurred. This along with Yan's writing allows the reader to build a sense of empathy for all of the characters in the story. I loved that she made the decision to put an emphasis on all immigrants sticking together instead of trying to stand against each other or fight their battles alone. I also enjoyed that she illustrated the fact that POC can be prejudiced towards each other. Quite often people like to assume that just because someone is a POC that means that they exhibit horrible thoughts or actions towards other POCs. In the book we see a group of POC characters reinforce the stereotypes of other POC groups. Yang emphasizes to the reader that anyone is capable of bigotry just as anyone is capable of reform/change.
Honestly, I just love Yang's works and the way she takes time to educate readers of all ages. She doesn't shy away from tough topics, but she does so in a way that is appropriate for her target audience. Prior to reading this book I didn't know anything about Prop. 187. While Yang doesn't cover every aspect of this law, she does focus in on the educational piece where students were no longer allowed to attend school. They way this broke my heart was unreal. I didn't understand how grown ass adults were able to actively create a law that would harm children. In fact, a littel boy, Julio Cano, died because his family was too scared to seek medical attention. He was only 12 years old.
I continue to be amazed by Yang's gifts as a writer. I hope that more readers explore her stories and understand how important they are. She also conducts research and writes her novels in a way that really captures the experiences of others.
There are two elements that I absolutely loved about this book. The first element was the friendship between Mia and Lupe. No matter what happened, Mia stood by Lupe's side. She refused to let Lupe get discouraged. As always, Yang addressed some of the biggest issues our country is facing in terms of immigrant. Most of the events in this book are actual events that occurred. This along with Yan's writing allows the reader to build a sense of empathy for all of the characters in the story. I loved that she made the decision to put an emphasis on all immigrants sticking together instead of trying to stand against each other or fight their battles alone. I also enjoyed that she illustrated the fact that POC can be prejudiced towards each other. Quite often people like to assume that just because someone is a POC that means that they exhibit horrible thoughts or actions towards other POCs. In the book we see a group of POC characters reinforce the stereotypes of other POC groups. Yang emphasizes to the reader that anyone is capable of bigotry just as anyone is capable of reform/change.
Honestly, I just love Yang's works and the way she takes time to educate readers of all ages. She doesn't shy away from tough topics, but she does so in a way that is appropriate for her target audience. Prior to reading this book I didn't know anything about Prop. 187. While Yang doesn't cover every aspect of this law, she does focus in on the educational piece where students were no longer allowed to attend school. They way this broke my heart was unreal. I didn't understand how grown ass adults were able to actively create a law that would harm children. In fact, a littel boy, Julio Cano, died because his family was too scared to seek medical attention. He was only 12 years old.
I continue to be amazed by Yang's gifts as a writer. I hope that more readers explore her stories and understand how important they are. She also conducts research and writes her novels in a way that really captures the experiences of others.
May 10, 2025
Front Desk was a propitious start to Kelly Yang's career as a novelist. It followed the experiences of preteen immigrant Mia Tang, who moved to the United States from China as a little girl. Her mother and father had good careers prior to coming here, but in America their credentials don't mean as much; it's been a long road to becoming the proud owners—and primary maintenance workers—of the Calavista Motel in California. Eleven-year-old Mia is starting sixth grade, but is less nervous than last year. She has a best friend, Lupe Garcia, and gets along better with Jason Yao than she used to. The problem is her new teacher, Mrs. Welch, who doesn't seem impressed by Mia's writing skills, and appears to resent kids in class who are immigrants. Lately the television news is dominated by the reelection campaign for California governor Pete Wilson, whose Proposition 187 would ban children of illegal immigrants from public school. Though Mia's family came to America legally, she is horrified: what will become of all those kids if Prop 187 passes? Mrs. Welch's implied approval of the measure does her no favors in Mia's eyes, who suspects this school year may be a long, stressful one.
Mia doesn't realize she has a personal stake in whether Prop 187 is approved until Lupe quietly admits that her family is here illegally, having crossed the border from Mexico without permission. If the state finds out, she and her parents will be deported, and Mia would lose her best friend. That possibility grows when Lupe's grandmother in Mexico dies, and Lupe's mother risks to returning to her home country for the funeral. Tension mounts as weeks pass with no word from Mrs. Garcia, but Lupe and her father can't alert the authorities without drawing attention to their own illegal residency. When a desperate Mr. Garcia has a run-in with police, Lupe's future is in flux, but at least she has Mia's family to turn to. Lupe always has a warm bed waiting at the Calavista Motel, and the Tangs refuse to let her lose hope regarding her parents. The Garcias are decent, hardworking people, assets to the United States; surely there's a way to prove they should be allowed stay in the country they have called home for eight years.
"I have fear every day...But let me tell you something about fear: If you don't control it, it controls you."
—Hank, Three Keys, P. 215
The Calavista Motel is a more consistent moneymaker than when Mr. Yao owned it, running the place with an iron fist and treating Mia and her parents shamefully. The investors are happy with how the Tangs have improved the product, but their support wavers when Mia takes a public stand against Prop 187, posting an "IMMIGRANTS WELCOME" sign outside. Patronage drops off considerably as politics divide their potential clientele, but Mia refuses to take down the sign, and her parents reluctantly side with her. The Tangs are back in financial limbo, their future in America far from secure, but as the weeks roll by toward election day, changes come to Mia's life. Taking a proactive role in the Garcias' legal case, she speaks boldly about it even when met with opposition. Eventually she sees a kinder side of Mrs. Welch, and Mia agrees to her teacher's offer to tutor Mia on technical and stylistic aspects of writing. Mia uses her enhanced communication skills to contact lawyers, journalists, and politicians to rally support for the Garcias ahead of their day in immigration court. Will her confident young voice be heard over the din of democracy in action? The world is changing and so is Mia, but she's lucky to have supportive friends and family as she ventures toward adolescence. These years will be among the most vivid of her entire life.
Smooth and forceful, Kelly Yang's writing has unique emotional urgency. Front Desk was a provocative, thoughtful rebuke to racism in all its forms, highlighting the importance of individuality and perseverance. Three Keys had the same potential, but gets bogged down in the weeds of overt politicization and never pulls free. Ms. Yang's notions about immigration are far to the left, which would be no problem if the story acknowledged there are two principled sides to the issue, both of which believe in the morality of their cause. Instead, Three Keys conflates illegal immigration with immigration, and opposition to illegal immigration with racism, stoking anger against anyone who believes otherwise. A story that weaves in partisan social values isn't necessarily a bad thing, but Kelly Yang crosses the line in this book, especially in the Author's Note when she denounces a specific politician. For these reasons I can only bring myself to rate Three Keys one and a half stars, which is a shame because Kelly Yang is a wonderful storyteller. I have high hopes for episode three of the Front Desk series, Room to Dream. It looks like a winner.
Mia doesn't realize she has a personal stake in whether Prop 187 is approved until Lupe quietly admits that her family is here illegally, having crossed the border from Mexico without permission. If the state finds out, she and her parents will be deported, and Mia would lose her best friend. That possibility grows when Lupe's grandmother in Mexico dies, and Lupe's mother risks to returning to her home country for the funeral. Tension mounts as weeks pass with no word from Mrs. Garcia, but Lupe and her father can't alert the authorities without drawing attention to their own illegal residency. When a desperate Mr. Garcia has a run-in with police, Lupe's future is in flux, but at least she has Mia's family to turn to. Lupe always has a warm bed waiting at the Calavista Motel, and the Tangs refuse to let her lose hope regarding her parents. The Garcias are decent, hardworking people, assets to the United States; surely there's a way to prove they should be allowed stay in the country they have called home for eight years.
"I have fear every day...But let me tell you something about fear: If you don't control it, it controls you."
—Hank, Three Keys, P. 215
The Calavista Motel is a more consistent moneymaker than when Mr. Yao owned it, running the place with an iron fist and treating Mia and her parents shamefully. The investors are happy with how the Tangs have improved the product, but their support wavers when Mia takes a public stand against Prop 187, posting an "IMMIGRANTS WELCOME" sign outside. Patronage drops off considerably as politics divide their potential clientele, but Mia refuses to take down the sign, and her parents reluctantly side with her. The Tangs are back in financial limbo, their future in America far from secure, but as the weeks roll by toward election day, changes come to Mia's life. Taking a proactive role in the Garcias' legal case, she speaks boldly about it even when met with opposition. Eventually she sees a kinder side of Mrs. Welch, and Mia agrees to her teacher's offer to tutor Mia on technical and stylistic aspects of writing. Mia uses her enhanced communication skills to contact lawyers, journalists, and politicians to rally support for the Garcias ahead of their day in immigration court. Will her confident young voice be heard over the din of democracy in action? The world is changing and so is Mia, but she's lucky to have supportive friends and family as she ventures toward adolescence. These years will be among the most vivid of her entire life.
Smooth and forceful, Kelly Yang's writing has unique emotional urgency. Front Desk was a provocative, thoughtful rebuke to racism in all its forms, highlighting the importance of individuality and perseverance. Three Keys had the same potential, but gets bogged down in the weeds of overt politicization and never pulls free. Ms. Yang's notions about immigration are far to the left, which would be no problem if the story acknowledged there are two principled sides to the issue, both of which believe in the morality of their cause. Instead, Three Keys conflates illegal immigration with immigration, and opposition to illegal immigration with racism, stoking anger against anyone who believes otherwise. A story that weaves in partisan social values isn't necessarily a bad thing, but Kelly Yang crosses the line in this book, especially in the Author's Note when she denounces a specific politician. For these reasons I can only bring myself to rate Three Keys one and a half stars, which is a shame because Kelly Yang is a wonderful storyteller. I have high hopes for episode three of the Front Desk series, Room to Dream. It looks like a winner.
September 10, 2020
I loved Mia Tang in "Front Desk" and was really looking forward to visiting her and her family once again. We do get some glimpses of our favorite characters from Book 1, but this second book focuses a laser beam on the California gubernatorial election in 1994 and more specifically Prop 187. Mia's friend Lupe is undocumented (along with her parents) and is in danger of being thrown out of school --and possibly deported--if California votes in favor of Prop 187. Throughout the book, the impact on school children is the focus of the opposition. The movement to pass Prop 187 was much more than that and there were people on both sides who cared about California and its future. What happens to Lupe and her family in the book is deplorable! It is also fiction. I know a 21-year-old South African student who has lived in the US and served in youth ministry with her family for five years. Her whole family has to relocate to another country, because the US government will not give her a green card or renew her visa. This young woman cannot find refuge in DACA even though her parents jumped through all the legal hoops to enter our country legally. Is there a happily ever after if we simply open up the borders and accept all immigrants? This book might lead one to think that is the case. Lupe's family would most certainly be relieved of the troubles experienced in this story. Yet, we see that the school Mia attends is low on funds. Could that be due to the fact that their student count increase has outpaced the tax money needed to pay to educate those students? Prop 187 passed by 59% of the vote, but was never even codified. The effects reverberate to this day. Not everyone who voted for it was a bigot; the issue was more complex than that. When will our country resolve the many problems in our immigration system so we can move forward in unity?
Thank you to Scholastic Press and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Scholastic Press and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2020
A must read coming in 2020 is the follow up to Front Desk. Even though Three Keys is set during the 90s when Prop187 was proposed, it’s much relevant to what our nation and its leaders are projecting today. This story should be read aloud in every middle grade classroom, discussed deeply in terms of what’s right and wrong, what’s innate or what’s learned, and more importantly what America stands for.
A common theme in Three Keys is to use your voice and use it loudly; which all of the characters do in many, many ways. Also, learning the three keys of friendship: listen, care, and keep trying.
Mia’s voice is used to fight and fight hard throughout their time during Prop187 passing and for immigrants who have worked hard to be where they are in America, just like her and her family.
Lupe’s father is taken and they’re unsure about his return, requiring Lupe to speak up and for immigrants everywhere nationally.
Jason learns to use his voice to stand up to his parents for himself, let them know his dreams matter.
Hank is the best, still. Someone I would always want in my corner. He sees things for what they are and gives the best advice to the girls on how to face their fears of rejection and push through.
Mias family is strong, and during this story they had to band together and become even stronger. Not only for themselves, but for all of those they care about around them, and for immigrants everywhere looking for a better life for themselves and their family.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A common theme in Three Keys is to use your voice and use it loudly; which all of the characters do in many, many ways. Also, learning the three keys of friendship: listen, care, and keep trying.
Mia’s voice is used to fight and fight hard throughout their time during Prop187 passing and for immigrants who have worked hard to be where they are in America, just like her and her family.
Lupe’s father is taken and they’re unsure about his return, requiring Lupe to speak up and for immigrants everywhere nationally.
Jason learns to use his voice to stand up to his parents for himself, let them know his dreams matter.
Hank is the best, still. Someone I would always want in my corner. He sees things for what they are and gives the best advice to the girls on how to face their fears of rejection and push through.
Mias family is strong, and during this story they had to band together and become even stronger. Not only for themselves, but for all of those they care about around them, and for immigrants everywhere looking for a better life for themselves and their family.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 8, 2020
Can’t wait to read this one aloud to 4th and 5th grades later this year! What a powerful message about immigration and discrimination - WOW. This isn’t a story with a message - this book simply IS the message. And due to the biographical nature of the story, it reads a lot like a memoir. Not your average MG novel, that’s for sure.
Want to read
January 4, 2020We are getting a new book about Mia and Calivista Motel?? We're truly blessed
November 26, 2020
I'd give Three Keys 6 stars if I could! This book is EVEN BETTER than the first one and we all know how awesome the first one was.
The story this time centers around immigration and a new law being voted on about illegal immigrants, targeting the kids specifically and eliminating any right to education or healthcare. Considering the political atmosphere for the past couple years, the story hits a whole different level emotionally and was POWERFUL yet remained realistic at the same time.
I also love all the little things thrown in there that are relatable to immigrants of all races.
I'd highly recommend this to anyone, any age!
The story this time centers around immigration and a new law being voted on about illegal immigrants, targeting the kids specifically and eliminating any right to education or healthcare. Considering the political atmosphere for the past couple years, the story hits a whole different level emotionally and was POWERFUL yet remained realistic at the same time.
I also love all the little things thrown in there that are relatable to immigrants of all races.
I'd highly recommend this to anyone, any age!
December 26, 2020
I'm probably in the minority here, but the in-your-face politics of this book just completely put me off the book. The subtle education and enlightenment of the first book is gone and replaced with what feels like real clear politics in this one.
I am all for enlightening students but this felt over the top for a book aimed at upper elementary students.
I am all for enlightening students but this felt over the top for a book aimed at upper elementary students.
December 16, 2020
ESSA RESENHA CONTÉM SPOILERS DE "FRONT DESK".
Alerta de gatilho: Racismo.
"Three Keys" é o terceiro livro de Kelly Yang que leio em 2020. Estou EM PRANTOS que o próximo só sairá em setembro de 2021.
Na continuação de "Front Desk" que eu não sabia que precisava, o Calivista Motel mudou muito desde que os pais de Mia passaram a administrá-lo. Acolhendo imigrantes e dando tratamento justo aos funcionários, o negócio parece estar indo bem. Acontece que é 1994 e a Prop 187 do estado da Califórnia ameaça tirar direito humanos básicos de imigrantes sem documentação. Isso não só faz crescer a onda de conservadorismo e crimes de ódio, como ameaça o futuro de Lupe, amiga da Mia, e o próprio negócio dos pais, que começa a sofrer com a diminuição de hóspedes. Numa história que fala da importância de incluir crianças na política, de necessidade de tratar imigrantes com respeito e da força da amizade, Mia e seus amigos precisam ter esperança e força para lutar contra injustiças.
“But you can't give up on people. It's one of the three keys of friendship. You gotta listen, you gotta care, and most importantly, you gotta keep trying.”
Eu não estava brincando quando disse que "Front Desk" foi um dos melhores middle grades (senão o melhor) que já li na minha vida. A continuação faz completa justiça ao primeiro livro. Numa história tão impactante quanto, Kelly Yang traz mais uma vez tópicos importantes com uma linguagem acessível para todos os leitores.
Algumas cenas específicas (*alerta de leves spoilers*) me pegaram nesse livro. Em uma delas, Mia fala para a mãe que quer perder o sotaque, ao passo que a mãe responde que o sotaque é como um passaporte, que registra todos os lugares onde você já esteve, e tem muito mais a ver com sua vivência do que com seu destino final. Em outra, é chamada a atenção para o termo "imigrantes ilegais" — ora, uma ação pode ser ilegal, não uma pessoa; melhor seria usar "imigrantes sem documentação". Numa outra, Mia lembra do pai da necessidade de continuar lutando pelo o que eles acreditam e fazendo um bom trabalho, quando o pai fala que se sente culpado por, agora, estar em uma situação um pouco melhor que a maioria de imigrantes. Ainda fui marcado pela cena em que um policial diz à família Tang que o letreiro "Imigrantes São Bem-Vindos" mostra que eles estão buscando por confusão, o que é rebatido por Mia, dizendo que eles só procuram por gentileza.
Esse livro é INCRÍVEL. Mais uma vez, fui arrebatado pela força da narrativa de Kelly Yang e o jeito como ela trata temas difícies para o público infantil e pré-adolescente. Fiquei ainda mais encantado quando ela contou o trabalho que deu escrever o livro (ela precisou visitar penitenciárias destinadas a imigrantes, fazer entrevistas, pesquisar sobre as leis da época, e revisar o próprio passado, afinal, ela viveu tudo isso quando criança) e sua motivação: a recente onda de ódio contra imigrantes promovida por Donald Trump.
Conhecer a história é importante para que nunca repitamos os mesmos erros. "Three Keys" é uma leitura indicada para pessoas de todas as idades. Maravilhoso.
Alerta de gatilho: Racismo.
"Three Keys" é o terceiro livro de Kelly Yang que leio em 2020. Estou EM PRANTOS que o próximo só sairá em setembro de 2021.
Na continuação de "Front Desk" que eu não sabia que precisava, o Calivista Motel mudou muito desde que os pais de Mia passaram a administrá-lo. Acolhendo imigrantes e dando tratamento justo aos funcionários, o negócio parece estar indo bem. Acontece que é 1994 e a Prop 187 do estado da Califórnia ameaça tirar direito humanos básicos de imigrantes sem documentação. Isso não só faz crescer a onda de conservadorismo e crimes de ódio, como ameaça o futuro de Lupe, amiga da Mia, e o próprio negócio dos pais, que começa a sofrer com a diminuição de hóspedes. Numa história que fala da importância de incluir crianças na política, de necessidade de tratar imigrantes com respeito e da força da amizade, Mia e seus amigos precisam ter esperança e força para lutar contra injustiças.
“But you can't give up on people. It's one of the three keys of friendship. You gotta listen, you gotta care, and most importantly, you gotta keep trying.”
Eu não estava brincando quando disse que "Front Desk" foi um dos melhores middle grades (senão o melhor) que já li na minha vida. A continuação faz completa justiça ao primeiro livro. Numa história tão impactante quanto, Kelly Yang traz mais uma vez tópicos importantes com uma linguagem acessível para todos os leitores.
Algumas cenas específicas (*alerta de leves spoilers*) me pegaram nesse livro. Em uma delas, Mia fala para a mãe que quer perder o sotaque, ao passo que a mãe responde que o sotaque é como um passaporte, que registra todos os lugares onde você já esteve, e tem muito mais a ver com sua vivência do que com seu destino final. Em outra, é chamada a atenção para o termo "imigrantes ilegais" — ora, uma ação pode ser ilegal, não uma pessoa; melhor seria usar "imigrantes sem documentação". Numa outra, Mia lembra do pai da necessidade de continuar lutando pelo o que eles acreditam e fazendo um bom trabalho, quando o pai fala que se sente culpado por, agora, estar em uma situação um pouco melhor que a maioria de imigrantes. Ainda fui marcado pela cena em que um policial diz à família Tang que o letreiro "Imigrantes São Bem-Vindos" mostra que eles estão buscando por confusão, o que é rebatido por Mia, dizendo que eles só procuram por gentileza.
Esse livro é INCRÍVEL. Mais uma vez, fui arrebatado pela força da narrativa de Kelly Yang e o jeito como ela trata temas difícies para o público infantil e pré-adolescente. Fiquei ainda mais encantado quando ela contou o trabalho que deu escrever o livro (ela precisou visitar penitenciárias destinadas a imigrantes, fazer entrevistas, pesquisar sobre as leis da época, e revisar o próprio passado, afinal, ela viveu tudo isso quando criança) e sua motivação: a recente onda de ódio contra imigrantes promovida por Donald Trump.
Conhecer a história é importante para que nunca repitamos os mesmos erros. "Three Keys" é uma leitura indicada para pessoas de todas as idades. Maravilhoso.
April 17, 2021
I was hoping to love this the way I did _Front Desk_, but it's starting out pretty heavy-handed in terms of the moral message. I ended up enjoying it, though maybe not as much as _Front Desk_. My students have LOVED both of them.
I'm excited for #3 (9/21)!
I'm excited for #3 (9/21)!
February 11, 2021
5 stars for a middle grade book.
I enjoyed going back to the motel and the family left behind in the last book as they work to fight prejudice and demand equality for immigrants.
I enjoyed going back to the motel and the family left behind in the last book as they work to fight prejudice and demand equality for immigrants.
June 12, 2024
Such a great series and story yet again! Timely and historical, relevant and contemporary.
Immigrant children separated from parents.....gut-wrenching story that happens over and over.
Immigrant children separated from parents.....gut-wrenching story that happens over and over.
September 28, 2020
OK first of all can I just say that I loved Front Desk but I DID NOT REALIZE it was historical fiction because it still feels SO FUCKING TIMELY. But this sequel grounds it a little bit more in specific anti-immigration policies (different from our current dumb anti-immigration policies) and I was like, hold the phone, it's the early 90s in here?? which makes sense because these kids are younger and poor and don't have cutting edge technology anyway. And otherwise the struggles are timeless.
Also god can we please stop having so many terrible fucking policies in this country?? BAD
But umm this book is great, though. Mia remains SUCH a great narrator, such a realistic kid voice who has these big ideas despite her limited means, and such a keenly developed sense of injustice. LOVE HER. And I love that, like Front Desk, this book does NOT mince words about how shitty the circumstances are for Mia and for her friends, but it remains hopeful and extends such grace even to, for example, their racist 6th grade teacher.
FUCKING GREAT. I'M CRYING JUST THINKING ABOUT IT.
Also god can we please stop having so many terrible fucking policies in this country?? BAD
But umm this book is great, though. Mia remains SUCH a great narrator, such a realistic kid voice who has these big ideas despite her limited means, and such a keenly developed sense of injustice. LOVE HER. And I love that, like Front Desk, this book does NOT mince words about how shitty the circumstances are for Mia and for her friends, but it remains hopeful and extends such grace even to, for example, their racist 6th grade teacher.
FUCKING GREAT. I'M CRYING JUST THINKING ABOUT IT.
January 12, 2022
Filled with compassion and empathy, Kelly Yang has once again proved herself to be one of the best MG writers out there with this gorgeous story.
I’m in awe of the way she manages to tackle such serious issues as deportation, racism, immigration etc. in a way that is both accessible and easy for younger readers to understand. At no point does it sugar coats hardships or belittle the scope of understand of its readers. Instead it encourages compassion, action understanding.
The Front Desk series is one of my absolute favourites and one I truly believe defies age boundaries. No matter how old you are or where you’re from, you will undoubtedly take something away from this sensational book and it’s wonderful characters.
Filled with love, passion, warmth, passion, fight and characters you’ll fall in love with, was a truly fantastic read and I couldn’t recommend it more highly
TW: racism, hate crimes
I’m in awe of the way she manages to tackle such serious issues as deportation, racism, immigration etc. in a way that is both accessible and easy for younger readers to understand. At no point does it sugar coats hardships or belittle the scope of understand of its readers. Instead it encourages compassion, action understanding.
The Front Desk series is one of my absolute favourites and one I truly believe defies age boundaries. No matter how old you are or where you’re from, you will undoubtedly take something away from this sensational book and it’s wonderful characters.
Filled with love, passion, warmth, passion, fight and characters you’ll fall in love with, was a truly fantastic read and I couldn’t recommend it more highly
TW: racism, hate crimes
April 21, 2021
Kelly Yang hit this second book out of the park! She does such a phenomenal job of taking really difficult and ugly situations and topics and making them accessible to middle graders without dumbing them down or taking the seriousness out of them. I especially liked the note at the end by the author.
September 22, 2020
THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD AND SO IMPORTANT
March 26, 2021
Novels you read and finish with your Grade 6 class still count on Good Reads, right?!
June 25, 2025
You can’t do it for other people, you know. You gotta do it for yourself.
Three Keys is the sequel to the Front Desk, which I found truly inspiring. However this book is more complex, and all the more inspiring, though-provoking, eye-opening, awe-inspiring, impactful, touching, and also, informational. A lot of words, I know! But what I mean to say is, it deserves to be read.
This novel mainly is about immigrant struggles, like the first book. But unlike Front Desk, it digs into the dispute over illegal immigrants and specifically the injustice faced by a critical character. Moreover, it’s set during a historical period (the 1994 election and Proposition 187) and Kelly Yang has even conducted various research around the subject. This makes this book really informative as to what has happened and gives us a view of the daily lives of those illegal immigrants after Prop 187 and the hate crimes that were experienced. However, Kelly Yang refrains from making the topic too heavy. Though it was a bit realistic for my daydreamer brain forever seeking a fantastical realm, this book was well written for a middle grade realistic fiction. The only problem some people comment on is the potential of political bias from the author, but I’m honestly pretty clueless as a non-American! But also due to this, with the newfound insight I began to really think about this topic which I’ve never really delved deep into before.
We were both girls with big hopes and dreams. But because of one piece of paper, we were on two different sides of the law. I didn’t really understand before what that paper meant. But now, I was starting to realize, it meant the difference between living in freedom and in fear.
And what is this series without its characters? Already, I have seemed to get to know each character and started to root for the protagonist. I admire how Mia, as always, is so brave and persistent. And how she speaks up to what she believes is important—even despite the challenges she may face. I really felt for Lupe in this book, too. Her interactions with Mia were truly heartfelt and gave even more significance to the central arc of the story. However, there are also subplots of the story, many involving the infamous Jason Yao.
You have a gift…You have to do something with it.
And I have to say, as a passionate writer myself who’s lost in her own world of magic-making with each whimsical aspect she thrusts into her stories, I do often think of myself a bit like a chef. And golly, this book fulfilled my thirst for that theme. I felt really heard! (And of course, I do it a lot of times because Mia reminds me of myself lots of times!) Jason’s strong drive to become a chef and Mia’s determination for improving her writing craft really speaks volumes. This subplot addresses my thoughts almost as if it reads my mind! My feelings were meticulously captured, at least in some parts, and it resonated a whole lot with me…
I like messing around in the kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients, seeing what works, what doesn’t work…It’s just like you and your writing.
(Yes, I went bananas when I saw this!! Ooh, and a good transition to the next theme…)
Maybe being Chinese wasn't about liking red bean shaved ice or having serious chopstick skills…Maybe it had to do with yi qi and all sorts of Chinese values living inside me, just waiting to be discovered.
I also went bananas when I saw this quote too! Because wow did it speak my mind. And it’s always been something I needed to hear. Of course, Mia was turning into a “banana”, or someone who is yellow on the outside and white on the inside. And this also goes with her mom. I loved how her parents were deeply involved in these arcs that signified cross cultural challenges.
Yet also, I felt that in this edition, Mia has developed. But what remained insufficient was her flaws. Certainly, I think she is more emotional. But that also means she is empathetic and virtuous. She has a great relationship with everyone, and when she doesn’t she isn’t very stubborn as to apologizing and changing for the better. And of course, whatever stubbornness she does have is acquired to advocating and her integrity as I do think the author glorified the liberal side. What is Mia Tang’s fatal flaw? Perhaps I haven’t noticed yet. But I do really think she feels immensely perfect sometimes, which starts to make her feel a bit less realistic. Even the really extraordinary ones have fatal flaws. And I don’t particularly see one in Mia—at least not yet.
But with all the subplots tied to character development, Kelly Yang balanced this book perfectly and made this a page-turning read. And more than that… (you know, all those words I said before haha!)
This rarely happens, but this book has so many quotes! So here are some of my other favorites:
“I was impressed, for I had finally worked up the nerve to not be ashamed of what I did, but to be proud of it, to own it. And that was something!”
“It’s okay to be scared…It doesn’t mean you’re not brave. Even the bravest people are scared sometimes…But you know what? We’re going to get through this. Together.”
(I’m going to pretend she said that to me too! And of course, I think a part of her did. I’ll forever bask in the delight of friends, from novels that is, but none the less magical)
“...the spirit of helping others lived not just in our sign, but in people’s hearts too.”
“It’s my dream and nobody can take it away.”
Indeed they can’t! Tell me you don’t want to hang this on your wall. Don’t stop dreaming, and this is your cue to read this book, because just the quotes make it worth it.
Immediate Thoughts:
Solid 4/5 Stars! :)
March 6, 2022
E-x-c-e-l-l-e-n-t!
October 1, 2020
ALL the STARS for Three Keys by @kellyyanghk; this sequel to Front Desk comes out 9/15/20
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Never before have I read a book series that so perfectly puts kids and their hopes and dreams at the center of the story and then shows those same kids empowered to make effective change. Front Desk is one of my very favorite MG books of all time; I think I've read it four times because I've read it aloud to so many different groups. I'm thrilled to share that the sequel, Three Keys, is just as good. It's fast-paced, well constructed, and best of all inspiring. Mia and her friends are forces in the fight for social justice and perfect examples of #youngchangemakers.
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In this novel, Mia learns that anti-immigration sentiment is strong in her community and her state and that speaking up the way she did in Front Desk isn't safe for everyone. "There were certain things you needed to write letters, besides just a pen." For undocumented immigrants in her community, fear of deportation keeps people from speaking up and advocating for themselves. When her best friend Lupe and her family are affected by the hatred and the prospect of California's Prop 187, Mia decides she must again use her own voice to speak up for others. Along the way, Mia and Lupe gain allies from friends, neighbors, and others. In particular, allies include Jason Yao, as well as their teacher, who makes an incredible transformation because of Mia's advocacy.
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The Front Desk series is an excellent way to introduce civics in the classroom via the 10 Questions for Young Changemakers frameworklink. For more information about how you can address concepts related to civics education, see my webinar and accompanying resources on the School Library Connection website (includes a list of other MG and YA books that go well with the 10 Questions for Young Changemakers!)
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#middleschoollibrarian #middleschoollibrary #library #librarian #futurereadylibs #iteachlibrary #bookstagrammer #bookstagram #librariesofinstagram #librariansofinstagram #librariesfollowlibraries #librarylife #librarianlife #schoollibrarian #middlegrade #middlegradebooks #iteach #librarylove #booksbooksbooks #amreading #bibliophile #schoollibrariansrock #bookreview #bookrecommendation #igreads #malibrary #msla #mediaspecialist
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Never before have I read a book series that so perfectly puts kids and their hopes and dreams at the center of the story and then shows those same kids empowered to make effective change. Front Desk is one of my very favorite MG books of all time; I think I've read it four times because I've read it aloud to so many different groups. I'm thrilled to share that the sequel, Three Keys, is just as good. It's fast-paced, well constructed, and best of all inspiring. Mia and her friends are forces in the fight for social justice and perfect examples of #youngchangemakers.
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In this novel, Mia learns that anti-immigration sentiment is strong in her community and her state and that speaking up the way she did in Front Desk isn't safe for everyone. "There were certain things you needed to write letters, besides just a pen." For undocumented immigrants in her community, fear of deportation keeps people from speaking up and advocating for themselves. When her best friend Lupe and her family are affected by the hatred and the prospect of California's Prop 187, Mia decides she must again use her own voice to speak up for others. Along the way, Mia and Lupe gain allies from friends, neighbors, and others. In particular, allies include Jason Yao, as well as their teacher, who makes an incredible transformation because of Mia's advocacy.
.
.
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The Front Desk series is an excellent way to introduce civics in the classroom via the 10 Questions for Young Changemakers frameworklink. For more information about how you can address concepts related to civics education, see my webinar and accompanying resources on the School Library Connection website (includes a list of other MG and YA books that go well with the 10 Questions for Young Changemakers!)
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#middleschoollibrarian #middleschoollibrary #library #librarian #futurereadylibs #iteachlibrary #bookstagrammer #bookstagram #librariesofinstagram #librariansofinstagram #librariesfollowlibraries #librarylife #librarianlife #schoollibrarian #middlegrade #middlegradebooks #iteach #librarylove #booksbooksbooks #amreading #bibliophile #schoollibrariansrock #bookreview #bookrecommendation #igreads #malibrary #msla #mediaspecialist
November 29, 2020
I liked this follow up to Front Desk, although I didn't like it as much as I enjoyed Front Desk.
The cast of characters were worth following. This follow up gave Yang a chance to develop further character studies that weren't able to be explored in her first book. The topic of illegal immigration in the book was a timely one, considering the fate of immigrants in our country in recent years. I also enjoyed the afterward in which Yang describes her own interaction with Prop 187 in her childhood.
The cast of characters were worth following. This follow up gave Yang a chance to develop further character studies that weren't able to be explored in her first book. The topic of illegal immigration in the book was a timely one, considering the fate of immigrants in our country in recent years. I also enjoyed the afterward in which Yang describes her own interaction with Prop 187 in her childhood.
December 7, 2021
I’m gonna need Kelly Yang to stop making me cry with her Middle Grade books. This was such an excellent follow up to Front Desk. It was great to see the characters again and learn more about their friendships, backgrounds, and lives. Like with the first book there are some pretty serious issues being handled. The main one for this book was bigotry against immigrants in the US. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. Mia and her friends and family are wonderful characters to follow.
January 3, 2021
Kelly Yang is one of my favorite writers (the voice is always spot on) and this sequel was every bit as good as I’d hoped it to be! Great audio & love that readers get to spend more time with Mia, Lupe and Jason. Also, I learned so much about California history! Yang did such a great job with the research and the authors note. Put it in every 4th-8th grade classroom/library!
November 30, 2020
It was really concerning to me that the book portrayed the message that illegal immigration is ok - it didn't state the truth that illegal immigration is breaking the laws of our country of the U.S.
September 25, 2022
What serendipity that I borrowed this book at the very time that a Florida governor is taking a page from California Governor Pete Wilson to exploit undocumented immigrants for his political gain. Three Keys, the sequel to Front Desk (listed on NPR’s list of 100 best children’s books), takes place during the 1994 Proposition 187 campaign. As now, undocumented migrants were vilified in TV ads, leading to a huge increase in racist attacks. Prop 187 declared war on immigrants, barring them from public services — including hospitals and public schools — and requiring medical professionals and teachers to report suspect undocumented immigrants to authorities for deportation.
Eleven-year-old Mia Tang and her family — thanks to investors and Mia’s cleverness — now own the Calivista Hotel in Anaheim, Calif.; her immigrant Chinese family is here legally, but her best friend Lupe and her family are not. Mia is terrified that she will be deprived of her education. But it turns out even worse was to come for the Garcia family. Three Keys may be even better than its predecessor. Highly recommended.
I cried repeated, out of pity, out of anger. Author Kelly Yang states that Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant rants and policies inspired her to write Three Keys. She had thought the demise of Prop 187 and its part in turning California into a Democratic state meant that she’d never see that kind of immigrant-baiting again. Sadly, no.
I, too, thought that the thrashing that Trump received in 2018 over babies in cages would give future race-baiting politicians pause. But no. It is the fall of 2022, with one governor flying thirsty, starved immigrants to Martha’s Vineyard and a second one vowing to, like Wilson, deprive undocumented immigrant children of an education. I can only hope that Americans are wiser today than they were in 1994.
Eleven-year-old Mia Tang and her family — thanks to investors and Mia’s cleverness — now own the Calivista Hotel in Anaheim, Calif.; her immigrant Chinese family is here legally, but her best friend Lupe and her family are not. Mia is terrified that she will be deprived of her education. But it turns out even worse was to come for the Garcia family. Three Keys may be even better than its predecessor. Highly recommended.
I cried repeated, out of pity, out of anger. Author Kelly Yang states that Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant rants and policies inspired her to write Three Keys. She had thought the demise of Prop 187 and its part in turning California into a Democratic state meant that she’d never see that kind of immigrant-baiting again. Sadly, no.
I, too, thought that the thrashing that Trump received in 2018 over babies in cages would give future race-baiting politicians pause. But no. It is the fall of 2022, with one governor flying thirsty, starved immigrants to Martha’s Vineyard and a second one vowing to, like Wilson, deprive undocumented immigrant children of an education. I can only hope that Americans are wiser today than they were in 1994.
May 16, 2025
The first book in this series came in a monthly middle grades “banned books” subscription. It’s excellent, a quasi autobiographical story appropriate for young readers that doesn’t flinch away from important political topics like what it’s like to be undocumented, and the politics surrounding prop 187 in California.
My fifth grade son tore through that one and then this second book in the series and is off to the third. I listened to much of this with him. This story has protagonists that share almost none of his identity characteristics (female, Latina & Chinese American, working class, immigrants, English language learners…) and yet we both found them relatable, compelling, I think it does a remarkable job of humanizing these fraught topics - super important for the next generation of voters and leaders to build the compassion towards others in these situations regardless of where they come out politically.
In my opinion, this should be changed from banned (or opt-out - as it is in some communities even in NY state!) to required reading for middle graders readers.
My fifth grade son tore through that one and then this second book in the series and is off to the third. I listened to much of this with him. This story has protagonists that share almost none of his identity characteristics (female, Latina & Chinese American, working class, immigrants, English language learners…) and yet we both found them relatable, compelling, I think it does a remarkable job of humanizing these fraught topics - super important for the next generation of voters and leaders to build the compassion towards others in these situations regardless of where they come out politically.
In my opinion, this should be changed from banned (or opt-out - as it is in some communities even in NY state!) to required reading for middle graders readers.
October 18, 2020
I'll admit I was a tad worried that I wouldn't enjoy this book as much as I enjoyed Front Desk, but there was really nothing to fear. Yang is an incredible writer and these characters are so well developed (and downright lovable). Three Keys starts off where Front Desk left off. This book in the series seemed even more of a historical fiction because much of it was based on the controversial ballot initiative in California known as Proposition 187, which would boot all children of undocumented immigrants out of public schools. To remain spoiler-free, I can't share much more (especially if you haven't read Front Desk, yet). However, I love the fact that in this heartfelt story, children are assured that the term illegal alien is an incorrect description of a person. Because humans aren't illegal. And they're not aliens. When one of Mia's friends is asked about what it's like to be undocumented, she shares: "It’s like being a pencil when everyone else is a pen. You worry you can be erased any time."
The Author's Note at the end is an absolute must read! Kelly Yang was only 10 years in 1994, but she well remembers the anger and rampant racism. One in four California residents were Latino, so every non-white child in California faced undocumented assumptions on a regular basis. This section is packed full of facts and statistics, including what's taken place since Donald J. Trump took office while Mexicans were labeled as criminals and immigrant children were separated from their parents. Furthermore, the number of deportations of undocumented immigrants with no prior criminal records has actually tripled over the last three years and immigration arrests have gone up 40%. Sadly, Trump also rescinded the DACA program, leaving an estimated 700,000 immigrant children in limbo. Highly recommend this series!
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
The Author's Note at the end is an absolute must read! Kelly Yang was only 10 years in 1994, but she well remembers the anger and rampant racism. One in four California residents were Latino, so every non-white child in California faced undocumented assumptions on a regular basis. This section is packed full of facts and statistics, including what's taken place since Donald J. Trump took office while Mexicans were labeled as criminals and immigrant children were separated from their parents. Furthermore, the number of deportations of undocumented immigrants with no prior criminal records has actually tripled over the last three years and immigration arrests have gone up 40%. Sadly, Trump also rescinded the DACA program, leaving an estimated 700,000 immigrant children in limbo. Highly recommend this series!
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
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