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Author & Illustrators

Kelly Yang Books

New country. New life. Whole new world . . .

When the coronavirus hits Hong Kong, ten-year-old Knox’s mom makes the last-minute decision to move him and his siblings to California, where they think they will be safe from the virus.

But life in America isn’t easy. At Knox’s new school, the other kids think that because he is from Asia, he must have brought over the virus. At home, Mom’s freaking out because she just got fired, and Dad doesn’t know when he’ll see them all again, because all flights out of Hong Kong have been cancelled.

As racism skyrockets during COVID, can Knox stand up to hate while finding his place in his new country?

Based on her own lived experience, No. 1 New York Times bestselling author Kelly Yang spins a heart-warming tale of courage, hope and resilience in the face of unprecedented times.

An honest and emotional story centring on 10-year-old Lina, who leaves China to reunite with her family in Los Angeles, after 5 years living apart with her grandma.

Exploring themes of family, friendship, separation, transitions, immigration, banned books (in this case graphic novels) and cultural differences, there is a lot to take in.

Lina must navigate a new and different culture, cope with learning a new language, meet new people and come to terms with the fact that her parents have not given her the whole picture of what life is truly like for them in America. The reality comes as quite a shock.

Working out the rules of a strange place and school system causes much anxiety. Mispronouncing words and being made fun of, means Lina fears talking in front of her classmates, until Lina meets a supportive teacher, librarian and new friend. They, quite literally, help her to stand up for what she believes in and realise she can make a difference just by being herself.

An important, thought-provoking read.

Chapter book

MIA TANG IS PLAYING TO WIN!

The Women’s World Cup is coming to California, and everyone has football fever – especially Mia! But when her PE teacher gives her a C, Mia has to pull up her grade by scoring interviews with the championship teams. It’s not so easy when… 1. Th 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 fourth book in the FRONT DESK series – following Mia Tang as she plays to win!

This is a deeply moving story that has left an impact long after reading it and is the first in a highly recommended series. Inspired by the author’s childhood, the story charts the experiences of a Chinese girl called Mia living in America with her parents, and explores the themes of immigration, prejudice, poverty, institutionalised racism and what it looks like to hold onto hope in turbulent times.

Having immigrated to California from China, Mia’s family run a motel. Life is hard work, money is short, the American people are unpredictable, and the motel owner, Mr Yao, is not somebody to be crossed. Yet Mia observes life around her with heart and humour, seeing the best in people and following her parents’ lead to offer compassion and help in all circumstances. Throughout the story, Mia becomes a beacon of light for many, as she works to navigate the challenging circumstances around her with integrity and hope.

Mia’s account of the difficulties her family faces as immigrants in modern-day America is moving and powerful. Mia is a thoroughly likeable main character who never gives up on pursuing her dreams and reaching for the stars.

This is a beautiful story that gently stirs the soul and is recommended for upper KS2.

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