The immigrant story comes in many forms but one common theme is that most people view the United States as a land of opportunity and are willing to work hard for what they want. Author Kelly Yang's autobiographical work rings very true with many real life experiences.
I cannot imagine growing up in a hotel and basically always being on duty but this is the story that Mia Tang describes as she relates how she grew up in California. Despite this, What makes the story worse is that her family is taken advantage of by someone from their own background. Unfortunately it is sometimes true that immigrants are the ones who take advantage of other immigrants because they know how desperate they are to get ahead.
Many times however, immigrants tend to band together and Yang's descriptions of the various Chinese uncles and aunts who stop by is spot on. The generosity and hospitality of Mia's parents is also one way that they sought to hold on to their culture. In a desert of hard work, the sharing of tea is an oasis for them. Although Mia and her family are all the way in America they still are part of an extended clan and Yang's descriptions of how life changed in China are eye-opening.
This book has been on a ton of lists for 2018 best books and deservedly so. Some read alikes for the 9-12 age group are Everlasting Nora by Marie Cruz Miranda and I'm Ok by Patti Kim.
