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Front Desk #4
Key Player
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!
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!
288 pages, Hardcover
First published September 6, 2022
About the author
Kelly Yang
23 books2,200 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 299 reviews
August 9, 2024
I love this series so much. The author's life is unbelievable, her courage, her determination, what she accomplished at a young age. We could all learn to be more aware and active and caring.
September 8, 2022
Kelly Yang is the queen of middle grade novels that focus on the experience of Chinese American immigrant families. This book was another excellent addition to her Front Desk series and features Mia, an aspiring journalist and reluctant athlete who can't wait for her family to purchase their first home and is obsessed with the USA vs China World Cup soccer event happening in LA. Great on audio and full of heart, I can't recommend this series enough!!
October 10, 2022
15/03/2022: not expecting another novel about Mia but definitely still happy to devour it. I love her stories so so much
18/03/2022: Urghh why can't September come early enough *crying in the corner*
10/10/2022: Kelly didn't disappoint. And so is Mia.
I love her new journey in this book. As I thought the series couldn't expand more, Kelly Yang kept surprising me with this new entry. I adore every character, even Mr. Yao, whom I despised in the first novel. He got a proper character development and who would've thought? The man went through so much in his past, I felt for him.
Jason also got a nice glow up, with book 3 following his dream of cooking and now being a chef in the motel. So proud of my boy. He also got some spicy drama with his father, but it's all for the sake of growing and changing, so I ain't complaining. Lupe kept shining with her math ability. Her feelings for Allie were a little bit out of nowhere (but I liked it), and her journey with Mia's mom throughout this novel was a delight to read.
But Mia's growth was definitely the most satisfying to read. Damn, girl went through with her fear of soccer and still shining through. Also, the interview and in general the climax with the soccer match between team USA and team China. The message is so heartwarming, and I love it so much.
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Đọc xong tập 4 và đọc phần cảm ơn ở cuối sách của tác giả mới biết là series này đã được mua bản quyền và phát hành tập 1 ở Việt Nam (tên tiếng Việt là "Giấc mơ bên kia đại dương"). Ai đó đi qua mà tình cờ đọc thấy cái review này thì mong các bạn có thể cân nhắc thử bộ truyện này nha, chắc chắn sẽ không hối hận đâu. Đọc mà ấm lòng thực sự.
Đến bây giờ là tập 4 mà mình vẫn được chứng kiến hành trình trưởng thành của Mia và lũ bạn. 3 năm với 4 tập sách mà tập nào tập nấy đều được viết rất cẩn thận và chỉn chu, nhiều lần xém rớt nước mắt vì xúc động trước những khó khăn vất vả và Mia với bố mẹ phải trải qua. Nhưng sau tất cả thì tình yêu thương, lòng vị tha và niềm quyết tâm sẽ vươn lên tất cả và tỏa sáng.
Một series xuất sắc.
18/03/2022: Urghh why can't September come early enough *crying in the corner*
10/10/2022: Kelly didn't disappoint. And so is Mia.
I love her new journey in this book. As I thought the series couldn't expand more, Kelly Yang kept surprising me with this new entry. I adore every character, even Mr. Yao, whom I despised in the first novel. He got a proper character development and who would've thought? The man went through so much in his past, I felt for him.
Jason also got a nice glow up, with book 3 following his dream of cooking and now being a chef in the motel. So proud of my boy. He also got some spicy drama with his father, but it's all for the sake of growing and changing, so I ain't complaining. Lupe kept shining with her math ability. Her feelings for Allie were a little bit out of nowhere (but I liked it), and her journey with Mia's mom throughout this novel was a delight to read.
But Mia's growth was definitely the most satisfying to read. Damn, girl went through with her fear of soccer and still shining through. Also, the interview and in general the climax with the soccer match between team USA and team China. The message is so heartwarming, and I love it so much.
-------------------------------------------------------
Đọc xong tập 4 và đọc phần cảm ơn ở cuối sách của tác giả mới biết là series này đã được mua bản quyền và phát hành tập 1 ở Việt Nam (tên tiếng Việt là "Giấc mơ bên kia đại dương"). Ai đó đi qua mà tình cờ đọc thấy cái review này thì mong các bạn có thể cân nhắc thử bộ truyện này nha, chắc chắn sẽ không hối hận đâu. Đọc mà ấm lòng thực sự.
Đến bây giờ là tập 4 mà mình vẫn được chứng kiến hành trình trưởng thành của Mia và lũ bạn. 3 năm với 4 tập sách mà tập nào tập nấy đều được viết rất cẩn thận và chỉn chu, nhiều lần xém rớt nước mắt vì xúc động trước những khó khăn vất vả và Mia với bố mẹ phải trải qua. Nhưng sau tất cả thì tình yêu thương, lòng vị tha và niềm quyết tâm sẽ vươn lên tất cả và tỏa sáng.
Một series xuất sắc.
October 19, 2022
A série Front Desk nunca falha! Nesse volume, conhecemos mais do passado do pai do Jason, acompanhamos o trabalho do Hank, vemos uma paixão nascer e temos Mia sendo a melhor criança do mundo. Kelly Yang discute identidade, pertencimento, raça e sexualidade (!!!) nesse volume. Fantástico, como sempre.
January 8, 2023
Another superb instalment in this gorgeous, compassionate, energetic and touching series. I truly believe this is one of the best middle grade series out there and the world would be a kinder place if everyone, old and young, gave it a read. Finding out this isn’t the last in the series is the best news I’ve read all year. Mia and the cast of this series have well and truly stolen my heart.
TW: racism
TW: racism
November 17, 2022
Kelly Yang really knows how to write a Middle Grade book. The Front Desk series is just so lovely. It was great to get another story about Mia Tang, her family, and her friends. Having this book centered around the Women’s World Cup match between the US and China provided a lot of opportunities to Mia and the other characters to reflect on their identities.
Something that I didn’t expect was getting more of Mr. Yao’s backstory and seeing him connect with Jason. This book was full of different characters standing up for themselves against people who are trying to take advantage of them.
I don’t know if there are more books planned in this series, but I hope there are. I’ll gladly keep reading about Mia Tang as long as the books keep coming out.
Something that I didn’t expect was getting more of Mr. Yao’s backstory and seeing him connect with Jason. This book was full of different characters standing up for themselves against people who are trying to take advantage of them.
I don’t know if there are more books planned in this series, but I hope there are. I’ll gladly keep reading about Mia Tang as long as the books keep coming out.
August 30, 2023
love a good sports novel
November 18, 2022
esses são livros são perfeitos, não tem um que não me deixa super emocionada e de olhos marejados
e toda vez que eu chego na nota da autora eu fico "certamente ela não viveu isso..." e a kelly yang vai lá e prova que sim, viveu isso, meu deus a vida dessa mulher, o que ela não fez?
“It feels like they can diminish you. Deflate you. Take away everything you’ve done, with just a word. But here’s the thing. Joy is a form of resistance. Passion is a form of activism. And you’re out there kicking butt every day, with your writing, your humor.”
e toda vez que eu chego na nota da autora eu fico "certamente ela não viveu isso..." e a kelly yang vai lá e prova que sim, viveu isso, meu deus a vida dessa mulher, o que ela não fez?
“It feels like they can diminish you. Deflate you. Take away everything you’ve done, with just a word. But here’s the thing. Joy is a form of resistance. Passion is a form of activism. And you’re out there kicking butt every day, with your writing, your humor.”
September 7, 2022
What can’t Mia do? So far, the answer is still nothing! I continue to love this series!
September 20, 2022
FABULOUS!!!! I have lots of students invested in Mia’s story and they’re going to LOVE this installment. World Cup soccer, math competition, Mr. Yao’s childhood journal entries, and Hank’s burger recipe…plus Mia is continuing her fight for justice! What a fabulous series.
September 9, 2024
It was good (sorry pookies I had to use the word good)
September 18, 2022
existe a POSSIBILIDADE de algum livro da Mia Tang ser menos do que excelente?
r: não
r: não
July 16, 2023
When I first read Front Desk 3 or 4 years ago I thought it was a fantastic book. Now, reading this 4th installment in the series as an older reader than previous years I'm not such a fan. (Of this book at least.) The main thing that instantly turned this into a two star book was the insinuation of Lupe, who is a girl, having a crush on another girl. The author didnt use the word crush, however the context tells you that it is in fact the beginning of a crush, which I found intolerable. Really! Why are these things in middle grade books? Why are they pushing these types of things on children? Yes, twas only a little mentions of that, however it does not matter how small or big it was. It is wrong! I'm very disappointed.
The focus of this series has been cool. It has focused on an immigrated family from China to the USA and has given me some perspective on it. These books had showed me just a few horrible things immigrants have gone through. The people in this world can be so cruel!
I will say that this book is also neat because if the fact that it is based on Yang's life. It makes me feel awful for the way she was bullied.
Some of the messages appeared to be a bit childish. Follow your dreams and passions and stuff like that. I am aware that this is a middle grade book and that some people believe you should follow your heart, dreams, passions, or all of the above. That is not my belief. The Bible says that our hearts are wicked and deceitful. The only one we should be following is Jesus Christ. I'm rambling now.🤦🏽♀️
Anyway..., 2 stars. Maybe I'll read the 5th book when it releases, I'm not sure. So many other books to read, so little time.📚😦😁
(This will probably count as my review for the week as I shall be very busy.)
The focus of this series has been cool. It has focused on an immigrated family from China to the USA and has given me some perspective on it. These books had showed me just a few horrible things immigrants have gone through. The people in this world can be so cruel!
I will say that this book is also neat because if the fact that it is based on Yang's life. It makes me feel awful for the way she was bullied.
Some of the messages appeared to be a bit childish. Follow your dreams and passions and stuff like that. I am aware that this is a middle grade book and that some people believe you should follow your heart, dreams, passions, or all of the above. That is not my belief. The Bible says that our hearts are wicked and deceitful. The only one we should be following is Jesus Christ. I'm rambling now.🤦🏽♀️
Anyway..., 2 stars. Maybe I'll read the 5th book when it releases, I'm not sure. So many other books to read, so little time.📚😦😁
(This will probably count as my review for the week as I shall be very busy.)
August 3, 2022
Mia’s back and going for the goal in the 4th Front Desk book.
⚽️
Everyone’s talking about the World Cup coming to LA and it’s Team USA vs. Team China! Meanwhile at Mia’s school she’s earning a C in PE, still afraid to play sports, even though her family has health insurance now. Mia is dying to attend a writer’s workshop, but must have the grades for it so she makes a deal with her coach: if she can get an interview with either Team USA or Team China, she’ll get a better grade in PE. Mia’s unsure who to root for in this match, as she’s from China, but lives and has a home in America now. As Mia tries to track down each team, she realizes both her identities matter—not just one.
🥅
Yang was born to write books: middle grade, YA and I’m sure she would write beautiful adult books as well, but this series has all of my heart. The way she’s able to write about such important issues such as bullying, racism, immigration, a coming out storyline, familial problems and friendship issues and make them relatable to kids is truly remarkable. I hope this series continues forever. Grab all the copies on 9.6.
CW: bullying, racism, cheating
⚽️
Everyone’s talking about the World Cup coming to LA and it’s Team USA vs. Team China! Meanwhile at Mia’s school she’s earning a C in PE, still afraid to play sports, even though her family has health insurance now. Mia is dying to attend a writer’s workshop, but must have the grades for it so she makes a deal with her coach: if she can get an interview with either Team USA or Team China, she’ll get a better grade in PE. Mia’s unsure who to root for in this match, as she’s from China, but lives and has a home in America now. As Mia tries to track down each team, she realizes both her identities matter—not just one.
🥅
Yang was born to write books: middle grade, YA and I’m sure she would write beautiful adult books as well, but this series has all of my heart. The way she’s able to write about such important issues such as bullying, racism, immigration, a coming out storyline, familial problems and friendship issues and make them relatable to kids is truly remarkable. I hope this series continues forever. Grab all the copies on 9.6.
CW: bullying, racism, cheating
September 8, 2022
It’s official. This is the best book I’ve ever read!! Key Player was so good, seriously. I’ve always loved how Kelly Yang has lots of major problems in these books that would normally set people back and make them give up, yet Mia is determined to not give up. And I cannot get over her writing style!! It keeps you interested and just makes you want to keep on reading! She leaves every chapter with a sort-of-cliff hanger, like you want to keep finding out what’s going to happen next even if there’s not a whole lot going on. But there’s always SOMETHING going on, so you never get bored with it. That’s another thing I love about her books. And each chapter is an average of 2-4 pages so you’re like, “Well, she and Hank are about to make cookies, and the chapter’s only 2 1/2 pages, so why not? It’s short.” And you think that with every chapter, so it’s just a wonderful continuous cycle that only has one downside: If you want to savor the book and let it last, you can’t fall for it. I also absolutely loved how Kelly conveyed the theme of this book again so nicely, and I loved the theme of it so much!! This was definitely her most inspiring book in the series. And, once again, this book was based off of her own childhood which made the book even more inspiring. This is definitely the best book in the series, and the best book I’ve ever read! My only complaint (if you can even count this) is that I wish I knew whether or not this is the last book in the series… I really hope she comes out with a new one.
November 17, 2022
Overall rating: 4.25 stars
Style/writing: 4 stars
Themes: 4.5 stars
Characters: 4.5 stars
Plot: 4 stars
Trigger warnings: Racism, xenophobia, sexism
Style/writing: 4 stars
Themes: 4.5 stars
Characters: 4.5 stars
Plot: 4 stars
Trigger warnings: Racism, xenophobia, sexism
August 1, 2023
The Women's World Cup Soccer finale is coming up between Team USA and Team China. When Mia's PE grade isn't what she wants, she comes up with the idea to interview one of the teams. Along with the weeklies and her friends, she tries to find the teams. Jason learns more about his dad's past, Hank tries to make it big with his crunch burger, and Mia's mom coaches Lupe in the Math Cup.
I absolutely love the Front Desk series. Mia, her friends, and the weeklies all come across as very real. The anti-Chinese sentiment around the World Cup reminded me a lot of the anti-Chinese sentiment around Covid. Mia's family's struggles with finding a house they can afford, without problems, and in a neighborhood where they feel accepted feels very relevant to today. I can't wait for the next installment of this wonderful series.
I absolutely love the Front Desk series. Mia, her friends, and the weeklies all come across as very real. The anti-Chinese sentiment around the World Cup reminded me a lot of the anti-Chinese sentiment around Covid. Mia's family's struggles with finding a house they can afford, without problems, and in a neighborhood where they feel accepted feels very relevant to today. I can't wait for the next installment of this wonderful series.
August 13, 2023
I read this in one sitting! This historical fiction series just keeps getting better and better. The year is 1999 and Americans are transfixed by the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup football (soccer) game at the Rose Bowl. USA vs. China was a milestone in global women’s sport history, and just like protagonist, Mia, author Kelly Yang scored an interview with the Chinese National Team! It revealed a barely-sponsored group of super-talented athletes who came from challenging backgrounds who, much like their USA counterparts, inspired girls everywhere to follow their dreams. This middle grade novel has other strong subplots as well. Mia’s mom coaches the high school Math Cup squad, Mia and Jason discover Mr. Yao’s guilty past, Hank’s Secret Recipe is stolen, and Mia’s family is still trying to find an affordable house. All are underpinned with surviving systemic racism and prejudice as they seek their passion while chasing their dreams. Realistic and inspirational!
July 5, 2023
I absolutely love this series!! It’s definitely one of my favorite series I have ever read! Pretty much every book Kelly Yang makes is amazing though and my favorite stand alone book is even written by her. This book did not disappoint and may have even been my favorite one so far in the series! I loved the side plot about Jason’s dad, and I also really loved how the theme was the Women’s World Cup! This seemed like a very fitting time to read the book because the 2024 World Cup is in just a few weeks!
Overall, I can’t wait for the 5th book Top Story to come out!!
Overall, I can’t wait for the 5th book Top Story to come out!!
May 23, 2023
Key player has Mia Tang facing new challenges in school, her writing and trying to fully experience the American Dream when she is both American and Chinese and some people really want to make sure her family remembers this. Good book... equal to the previous 4 but maybe I am slightly burned out on thier story. This one brings to the fore female empowerment and seeing there are different ways to win, be a teammate and support others.
February 25, 2024
these books just make me so happy
March 10, 2024
Another fantastic installment! These books always fill me with hope.
September 18, 2022
Goal and score! Author Kelly Yang creates another fine book starring persistent Mia and her friends and family fighting racism, fair play, soccer, journalism and family.
September 3, 2023
Loved this 4th installment in Mia Tang’s story!
March 3, 2023
I’ve loved getting to know all of the characters hanging around the Calivista Motel in Kelly Yang’s Front Desk series. Each one of the four novels has a central historical challenge—something particularly difficult for immigrants in the US. In this fourth novel in the series, the women’s Chinese soccer team arrives in So California to face the epic USA women’s team in the finals of the FIFA women’s world soccer championships. Mia feels torn as she grapples with the two sides of her cultural identity represented in these two teams. She also celebrates what great strides these two teams are making for women in sports across the world. Turns out, like Mia, Kelly Yang also landed an interview with the Chinese Women’s Soccer team in 1999, after staking out several hotels in Pasadena looking for them. No wonder this thread of the novel felt so real and authentic. Other storylines of the novel, however, didn’t hold up as well for me. Mr. Yao’s reconciliation with his son Jason felt rushed and too neatly resolved. The math team competition thread didn’t feel fully developed. Even the house hunting moments were predictable and flat. Although I love the series, and young readers may not see the plot problems that I did, this was my least favorite of the four novels. There were just too many storylines that neatly resolved in the last forty pages. However, GO TEAM GIRLS!
March 30, 2023
I really liked the world cup angle... I was about Mia's age when this happened so her perspective was fun and engaging.
I didn't like that Lupe was into girls. I liked the scene where Lupe wasn't interested in boys yet and not ready for a relationship and didn't think it needed to become a lesbian angle.
I didn't like that Lupe was into girls. I liked the scene where Lupe wasn't interested in boys yet and not ready for a relationship and didn't think it needed to become a lesbian angle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
October 20, 2022IT'S OUT!!! YASSS
Me trying to find this book online and then checking release date... oh well, it's at least number 5 on the "fall release" books that I want to read! Can't wait!
Me trying to find this book online and then checking release date... oh well, it's at least number 5 on the "fall release" books that I want to read! Can't wait!
September 4, 2023
Hello, fellow bookworms!! I'm SO EXCITED to continue this series, and celebrate Kelly Yang's amazing novels with the publication of Top Story (#5 in the Front Desk series) TOMORROW!! (unfortunately i'll be in school...) but maybe I can quickly buy it tmr or today!! GAHHH I'M SO EXCITED... but enough of my ranting, here's to another amazing review from one of my favorite authors, Kelly Yang:
Rating: I'm debating between ✨ INFINITY STARS ✨and 5 stars...
Summary : Mia Tang is going for the goal in the fourth Front Desk novel by New York Times bestselling author Kelly Yang! The Women’s World Cup coming to Southern California, everyone is soccer-crazy -- especially Mia Tang! The U.S. is playing China in the finals, and Mia feels like her two identities are finally coming together. Less exciting, though? The fact that her P.E. teacher wants Mia to get out of the soccer field, too -- or fall short of the grade she needs to earn a spot at journalism camp. But as always, Mia Tang is ready! She’ll track down the two women’s teams, interview them, and write an A-grade article for P.E. instead! It’s not so easy, though, finding professional athletes in Pasadena -- or bringing two identities together, even during a game. As Mia aims for her goals, she’ll have to face prejudice, discrimination, and her own fears. But if anyone can find a way to win, it’s Mia Tang!
What I Loved About This Book
1). Racism : Yet again, Kelly Yang doesn't shy away from showing racism who's boss! It's wonderful seeing how Mia can so easily stand up for her friends and family members, and herself, in the face of racism... Books these days are really touching on these topics; because it feels like we're finally seeing the negative effect it has on everyone !! Which is why I love this series and others :)
2). Sexism : Sexism is an important topic, and I don't think it was brought into the light in previous books (in the series), as much as it was hit on in this installment! I loved the way that the two women's teams showed everyone that girls, around the world, could reach their dreams just by kicking a ball into the goal, while being a girl!
3). Team China : I feel like Team China was more generous to Mia, than Team USA. Of course they allowed Mia to take pictures with them, and were really sugary sweet! But, Team China was accepted into the Calivista family ... Which doesn't compare to one Polaroid and an autograph. I loved how Team China really empowered Chinese girls- and, ultimately, all girls - to dare to face their dreams!! (Speaking of daring to face their dreams... I really think that Dare to Dream would be an amazing book title for this series!!) I even felt empowered reading about Mia's triumphs and how she pushed past the boundaries that said she couldn't do it because of her ethnicity, or her age or her background! But, really, anybody can do anything , and the trailblazers who prove that are the ones that really make history <3
4). The House-Hunt : When I was younger, my family moved a lot . So it was nice seeing how the Tang family hunted down different houses and what they thought of them; which brought back a few memories of my own family's house-hunting experiences :) It was nice to see that !
5). Mr. Yao : I know how miserable and grouchy Mr. Yao was in the previous novels, but after Jason and Mia and Lupe found his diary entries from when he was a young, bright man pursuing his passion of music... It really made you see him in a different light! :) I especially loved the scene when .
6). Lupe and Allie : It was interesting seeing how Lupe's possible "crush" on Allie played out... It was a little confusing seeing how she handled it but I'm so glad she told her parents and they loved her seeing past how weird or ashamed it was! I, personally, try not to read too many lgbt books (for personal reasons) but that's not what i loved about this novel, what I loved was that Lupe's parents came through. In everything, it's so important when your parents are there for you and they support you no matter what! And, that's why I loved how it played out <3
What I Didn't Like About This Book
1). The Typos : The typos were a bit bothersome, but I really didn't mind because the characters and the plot and the story is what made me drink in the words of this book like I would slurp up honey :)
2). The Illustration on the Back : I love Maike Plenzke's artwork!! But, on the back, the house that which kind of ticked me off tbh.
4). The Fast-Pace : Maybe it was because I was so excited about what I was reading, or I enjoyed skimming through this book in two days... But the story, especially at first, seemed pretty fast-paced and it seemed like the story was a little bit sped-up in some places. But, other than that, I really REALLY enjoyed this novel!! :D
The Characters
1). Mia: Even though Mia's extraordinary journalism skills, quick mind and wonderful ideas sometimes seem a tad bit unrealistic... I absolutely loved slipping into Mia's jersey, pen in hand, with her red shorts and white scrunchie as she totally showed the world who was boss. Pushed the ugly head of racism and sexism, and stood on top of the world! Everything about her from her personality, to her love for her friends and family members to her bold outlook on life... makes me adore reading about this character because I can really relate to her and take her strengths to improve my own! And the more I read, the closer I feel to Kelly Yang; which is a magical experience... To feel close to one of your favorite authors :)
2). Lupe: I love this character! First off, the Latin culture is my favorite and my close friends are Latin <3... Second, I love Lupe's personality! When I read her lines I use a tough voice, because she isn't afraid to do what she has to do to achieve her goals. But, it's also so easy seeing the soft and quiet spirit inside of her! I think it was a wonderful match for her to be besties with Mia, because when someone shoots a racist comment at Lupe her instincts tell her to just let it go and be quiet or shy; but Mia has her back and won't back down because she doesn't want those hurtful words to fester inside of Lupe's soul... Which is a true best friend! <3
3). Jason (and Mr. Yao): I think, in this novel, you could really see Jason at some of his most vulnerable points. He really loves his dad, and he takes it so hard whenever his dad shoots down his ideas or looks down on him because he feels a lack of self worth. But, Mia tried so hard to make Mr. Yao see his mistakes and I loved the way Jason and Mr. Yao acted when they kind of fixed the tear in their relationship! Even though the father and son weren't totally healed by what they did to each other, at least they were on the way and off to a great start :D
4). Mom and Dad: I love Mia's parents, and how hard they work. I loved how supportive Dad is of Mia's dreams, and how he is soft on the outside but he has a rock-hard discipline on the inside! I loved how Mom, even though she's an insecure character, wasn't afraid to stand up for what's right and to help out, even if its just behind the scenes!!
5). Mr. Antwell: I liked how this coach believed in Mia, and supported her. Even though he gave her a bad grade and told her that he needed an essay, it wasn't to be mean he was actually showing that he believed Mia could do better; that she could push the limits ! And, that's exactly what she did :)
6). Allie: It was hard to imagine Allie in my mind as a girl with red hair and glasses... I would need a picture of that! But, I liked how she helped Lupe out :) The "possible crush scenario" between her and Lupe was pretty confusing and head-scratching, but at least Lupe didn't cross the line like Jason or anything (if she had... I would've unfortunately had to stop this book!)
Content Overview
1). Profanity: the usual insults (it's also really surprising, because at the beginning of this series there were cuss words but then in the second book through the fourth there aren't any bad words!)
2). Sexual Content: None. The boys are gushing over how pretty Allie is... And Lupe doesn't know if she "likes" Allie or not, and her feelings are confusing her but I think it helps when she talks it out with Mia (who recounts how she felt with her first crush, Da-Shawn) and her parents; who both love and support her in her decisions.
3). Violent/Frightening Scenes: There aren't really any violent and frightening scenes in this novel. But, some of the racial comments and how they affected the characters can be intense sometimes.
Special Shout-Out
To the Dark Academics , congratulations for reaching 100 members!! :) And, to the forever swifties congrats on reaching 200 hundred members with the addition of myself :D
I also wanted to encourage the Bookmarked club: for their amazing games, mods and activities that really boost my love of reading! I can't wait to continue to participate and possibly read this September's BOTM ( Daughter of the Moon Goddess ) <3
Thank you everyone for reading this review; and to all the Kelly Yang fans out there I really hope you guys are PUMPED UP for the new installment of the Fr0nt Desk series being published TOMORROW because I AM!! Okay guys, I love you all and... also to all the Olivia Rodrigo fans out there: WHO'S EXCITED FOR HER NEW ALBUM: GUTS!?!!!... goodbyeeee
Enjoy your Labor Day :D
Rating: I'm debating between ✨ INFINITY STARS ✨and 5 stars...
Summary : Mia Tang is going for the goal in the fourth Front Desk novel by New York Times bestselling author Kelly Yang! The Women’s World Cup coming to Southern California, everyone is soccer-crazy -- especially Mia Tang! The U.S. is playing China in the finals, and Mia feels like her two identities are finally coming together. Less exciting, though? The fact that her P.E. teacher wants Mia to get out of the soccer field, too -- or fall short of the grade she needs to earn a spot at journalism camp. But as always, Mia Tang is ready! She’ll track down the two women’s teams, interview them, and write an A-grade article for P.E. instead! It’s not so easy, though, finding professional athletes in Pasadena -- or bringing two identities together, even during a game. As Mia aims for her goals, she’ll have to face prejudice, discrimination, and her own fears. But if anyone can find a way to win, it’s Mia Tang!
What I Loved About This Book
1). Racism : Yet again, Kelly Yang doesn't shy away from showing racism who's boss! It's wonderful seeing how Mia can so easily stand up for her friends and family members, and herself, in the face of racism... Books these days are really touching on these topics; because it feels like we're finally seeing the negative effect it has on everyone !! Which is why I love this series and others :)
2). Sexism : Sexism is an important topic, and I don't think it was brought into the light in previous books (in the series), as much as it was hit on in this installment! I loved the way that the two women's teams showed everyone that girls, around the world, could reach their dreams just by kicking a ball into the goal, while being a girl!
3). Team China : I feel like Team China was more generous to Mia, than Team USA. Of course they allowed Mia to take pictures with them, and were really sugary sweet! But, Team China was accepted into the Calivista family ... Which doesn't compare to one Polaroid and an autograph. I loved how Team China really empowered Chinese girls- and, ultimately, all girls - to dare to face their dreams!! (Speaking of daring to face their dreams... I really think that Dare to Dream would be an amazing book title for this series!!) I even felt empowered reading about Mia's triumphs and how she pushed past the boundaries that said she couldn't do it because of her ethnicity, or her age or her background! But, really, anybody can do anything , and the trailblazers who prove that are the ones that really make history <3
4). The House-Hunt : When I was younger, my family moved a lot . So it was nice seeing how the Tang family hunted down different houses and what they thought of them; which brought back a few memories of my own family's house-hunting experiences :) It was nice to see that !
5). Mr. Yao : I know how miserable and grouchy Mr. Yao was in the previous novels, but after Jason and Mia and Lupe found his diary entries from when he was a young, bright man pursuing his passion of music... It really made you see him in a different light! :) I especially loved the scene when .
6). Lupe and Allie : It was interesting seeing how Lupe's possible "crush" on Allie played out... It was a little confusing seeing how she handled it but I'm so glad she told her parents and they loved her seeing past how weird or ashamed it was! I, personally, try not to read too many lgbt books (for personal reasons) but that's not what i loved about this novel, what I loved was that Lupe's parents came through. In everything, it's so important when your parents are there for you and they support you no matter what! And, that's why I loved how it played out <3
What I Didn't Like About This Book
1). The Typos : The typos were a bit bothersome, but I really didn't mind because the characters and the plot and the story is what made me drink in the words of this book like I would slurp up honey :)
2). The Illustration on the Back : I love Maike Plenzke's artwork!! But, on the back, the house that which kind of ticked me off tbh.
4). The Fast-Pace : Maybe it was because I was so excited about what I was reading, or I enjoyed skimming through this book in two days... But the story, especially at first, seemed pretty fast-paced and it seemed like the story was a little bit sped-up in some places. But, other than that, I really REALLY enjoyed this novel!! :D
The Characters
1). Mia: Even though Mia's extraordinary journalism skills, quick mind and wonderful ideas sometimes seem a tad bit unrealistic... I absolutely loved slipping into Mia's jersey, pen in hand, with her red shorts and white scrunchie as she totally showed the world who was boss. Pushed the ugly head of racism and sexism, and stood on top of the world! Everything about her from her personality, to her love for her friends and family members to her bold outlook on life... makes me adore reading about this character because I can really relate to her and take her strengths to improve my own! And the more I read, the closer I feel to Kelly Yang; which is a magical experience... To feel close to one of your favorite authors :)
2). Lupe: I love this character! First off, the Latin culture is my favorite and my close friends are Latin <3... Second, I love Lupe's personality! When I read her lines I use a tough voice, because she isn't afraid to do what she has to do to achieve her goals. But, it's also so easy seeing the soft and quiet spirit inside of her! I think it was a wonderful match for her to be besties with Mia, because when someone shoots a racist comment at Lupe her instincts tell her to just let it go and be quiet or shy; but Mia has her back and won't back down because she doesn't want those hurtful words to fester inside of Lupe's soul... Which is a true best friend! <3
3). Jason (and Mr. Yao): I think, in this novel, you could really see Jason at some of his most vulnerable points. He really loves his dad, and he takes it so hard whenever his dad shoots down his ideas or looks down on him because he feels a lack of self worth. But, Mia tried so hard to make Mr. Yao see his mistakes and I loved the way Jason and Mr. Yao acted when they kind of fixed the tear in their relationship! Even though the father and son weren't totally healed by what they did to each other, at least they were on the way and off to a great start :D
4). Mom and Dad: I love Mia's parents, and how hard they work. I loved how supportive Dad is of Mia's dreams, and how he is soft on the outside but he has a rock-hard discipline on the inside! I loved how Mom, even though she's an insecure character, wasn't afraid to stand up for what's right and to help out, even if its just behind the scenes!!
5). Mr. Antwell: I liked how this coach believed in Mia, and supported her. Even though he gave her a bad grade and told her that he needed an essay, it wasn't to be mean he was actually showing that he believed Mia could do better; that she could push the limits ! And, that's exactly what she did :)
6). Allie: It was hard to imagine Allie in my mind as a girl with red hair and glasses... I would need a picture of that! But, I liked how she helped Lupe out :) The "possible crush scenario" between her and Lupe was pretty confusing and head-scratching, but at least Lupe didn't cross the line like Jason or anything (if she had... I would've unfortunately had to stop this book!)
Content Overview
1). Profanity: the usual insults (it's also really surprising, because at the beginning of this series there were cuss words but then in the second book through the fourth there aren't any bad words!)
2). Sexual Content: None. The boys are gushing over how pretty Allie is... And Lupe doesn't know if she "likes" Allie or not, and her feelings are confusing her but I think it helps when she talks it out with Mia (who recounts how she felt with her first crush, Da-Shawn) and her parents; who both love and support her in her decisions.
3). Violent/Frightening Scenes: There aren't really any violent and frightening scenes in this novel. But, some of the racial comments and how they affected the characters can be intense sometimes.
Special Shout-Out
To the Dark Academics , congratulations for reaching 100 members!! :) And, to the forever swifties congrats on reaching 200 hundred members with the addition of myself :D
I also wanted to encourage the Bookmarked club: for their amazing games, mods and activities that really boost my love of reading! I can't wait to continue to participate and possibly read this September's BOTM ( Daughter of the Moon Goddess ) <3
Thank you everyone for reading this review; and to all the Kelly Yang fans out there I really hope you guys are PUMPED UP for the new installment of the Fr0nt Desk series being published TOMORROW because I AM!! Okay guys, I love you all and... also to all the Olivia Rodrigo fans out there: WHO'S EXCITED FOR HER NEW ALBUM: GUTS!?!!!... goodbyeeee
Enjoy your Labor Day :D
December 31, 2022
Holy Guacamole! I have said it three times now and I will say it again...LOVE THIS SERIES! So many amazing themes throughout this book that build upon the last three books. This story is all about the women's FIFA World Cup - USA vs. China. At first Mia isn't a big fan of soccer or this whole game but as she learns more she is faced with so many questions and so many opportunities. This book deals with themes of sexism and racism primarily and I am so glad that Yang wrote this book the way she did. This whole series has brought up issues that young readers need to hear but does so in a way that is understandable for their age. In this book Mia is conflicted with who to root for in this game. Can she be an American and still cheer for the Chinese team? Why do so many of her classmates and teachers doubt the ability of girls when this game is the only thing being talked about all over the world? Such fantastic writing.
We also see more of Hank and Mr. Yao. We see more about their trials and tribulations and we see just how Mr. Yao's past may have affected his relationships with Jason. I loved reading this story line about family and dreams right along with the women's soccer teams. I hope that we can learn more about Mr. Yao in future books. As Sun Wen says, "Come on girls, do not wait to follow your dreams." 100% recommend and I sincerely hope that Kelly Yang continues Mia (and co)'s story!
We also see more of Hank and Mr. Yao. We see more about their trials and tribulations and we see just how Mr. Yao's past may have affected his relationships with Jason. I loved reading this story line about family and dreams right along with the women's soccer teams. I hope that we can learn more about Mr. Yao in future books. As Sun Wen says, "Come on girls, do not wait to follow your dreams." 100% recommend and I sincerely hope that Kelly Yang continues Mia (and co)'s story!
December 11, 2022
This was the perfect time to read this book for me (even as an adult haha).
Recently, I started playing soccer for the first time since high school (about 15 years), so I related to Mia's trepidation around getting hurt, not having the right body, and feeling like I've been behind all the other players on the team. I loved her growth through this and seeing her confidence increase over the course of the story. Sports truly bring people together, and I loved seeing Mia's role in it all and her stalwart determination to achieve her dreams in the process!
This book deals a lot with what it is to be American. What makes you more American or more Chinese (or whatever your background may be)? Can we ever be both comfortable, or is it always taking sides? There was a lot of valuable discourse here and as always I loved Kelly Yang's careful handling of the matter.
I think this was my favourite book of the series - I even teared up near the end. The irony of it all is that this book never hit shelves in America's largest bookstore (Barnes & Nobles) because they decided to stop carrying books that aren't seen as a "top seller" - as if diverse authors already haven't fought enough to get their books published let alone in stores. This is such a fantastic book and should be read by kids everywhere. I hope parents take a chance on this series and share it with their kids because there's so much to be learned about persevering and being kind.
All the stars to the Front Desk series! All the stars!
TW: bullying, racism, body shaming, mentions racial slurs
Recently, I started playing soccer for the first time since high school (about 15 years), so I related to Mia's trepidation around getting hurt, not having the right body, and feeling like I've been behind all the other players on the team. I loved her growth through this and seeing her confidence increase over the course of the story. Sports truly bring people together, and I loved seeing Mia's role in it all and her stalwart determination to achieve her dreams in the process!
This book deals a lot with what it is to be American. What makes you more American or more Chinese (or whatever your background may be)? Can we ever be both comfortable, or is it always taking sides? There was a lot of valuable discourse here and as always I loved Kelly Yang's careful handling of the matter.
I think this was my favourite book of the series - I even teared up near the end. The irony of it all is that this book never hit shelves in America's largest bookstore (Barnes & Nobles) because they decided to stop carrying books that aren't seen as a "top seller" - as if diverse authors already haven't fought enough to get their books published let alone in stores. This is such a fantastic book and should be read by kids everywhere. I hope parents take a chance on this series and share it with their kids because there's so much to be learned about persevering and being kind.
All the stars to the Front Desk series! All the stars!
TW: bullying, racism, body shaming, mentions racial slurs
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