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Auntie Q's Golden Claws Nail Salon
A heartwarming and funny middle grade novel about family, resilience, and the power of second chances where one girl’s summer punishment turns into a mission to save her aunt’s struggling nail salon and bring her family together.
Twelve-year-old Domi Pham had the perfect summer lounging by the pool, making art with her best friend, and celebrating her escape from seventh grade. But one costly mistake puts her dream summer on hold. Instead, she finds herself deep in debt to her parents, and shipped off to New Mexico to work at her Auntie Q’s nail salon for the next three months.
At first, Domi is miserable—surrounded by nosy aunties, constant nail polish fumes, and endless work. But as she gets to know Auntie Q and the people in the salon, she starts to see their struggles and resilience in a new light. When she discovers that the salon is at risk of closing, Domi puts her creativity and determination to the test to help save it.
Twelve-year-old Domi Pham had the perfect summer lounging by the pool, making art with her best friend, and celebrating her escape from seventh grade. But one costly mistake puts her dream summer on hold. Instead, she finds herself deep in debt to her parents, and shipped off to New Mexico to work at her Auntie Q’s nail salon for the next three months.
At first, Domi is miserable—surrounded by nosy aunties, constant nail polish fumes, and endless work. But as she gets to know Auntie Q and the people in the salon, she starts to see their struggles and resilience in a new light. When she discovers that the salon is at risk of closing, Domi puts her creativity and determination to the test to help save it.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published April 21, 2026
About the author
Van Hoang
7 books179 followersVan Hoang's first name is pronounced like the van in minivan. Her last name is pronounced “hah-wawng.” She earned her bachelor’s in English at the University of New Mexico and her master’s in library information science at San Jose State University. She was born in Vietnam, grew in up Orange County, California, and now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, kid, and two dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 3, 2026
Oh, I was invested the whole time.
Domi goes through a lot over the Summer, starting with her “punishment” being sent off to live and work with her aunt in New Mexico because of an “incident” that occurred in school and cost $500.
Well, a dismal Summer away from friends, electronic devices and her parents leads Domi to developing relationships with her maternal aunt, her nail salon employees, friends from the neighboring restaurant and a new understanding of her Mom and improved relationship with her parents.
My heart got bigger as Domi grew into her role at the nail salon and developed better family relations and responsibilities.
The acknowledgments the author wrote are heartfelt and genuine.
The story also made me think about my Vietnamese neighbor who works in a nail salon in our neighborhood. She is always working and taking care of her son and husband. She plays a mean game of Uno!
Domi goes through a lot over the Summer, starting with her “punishment” being sent off to live and work with her aunt in New Mexico because of an “incident” that occurred in school and cost $500.
Well, a dismal Summer away from friends, electronic devices and her parents leads Domi to developing relationships with her maternal aunt, her nail salon employees, friends from the neighboring restaurant and a new understanding of her Mom and improved relationship with her parents.
My heart got bigger as Domi grew into her role at the nail salon and developed better family relations and responsibilities.
The acknowledgments the author wrote are heartfelt and genuine.
The story also made me think about my Vietnamese neighbor who works in a nail salon in our neighborhood. She is always working and taking care of her son and husband. She plays a mean game of Uno!
July 18, 2025
This book is about Domi who wanted the perfect summer. Due to a mistake that she made she has to go to New Mexico to work at her Auntie Q’s Nail Salon. Domi has to work to pay her parents back. At first she didn’t like it. She gets to know her aunt and the others at the nail salon. The nail salon has some struggles and Domi has to find a way to get business back on track. This book is a good read.
April 21, 2026
Happy pub day! Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan for the digital ARC
Because of The Incident, Domi has been sent away to her aunt's in Albuquerque, NM with no electronics to earn money and repay her parents $500. Hurt and upset, she can't believe that she's being punished in this way, cast out from her own family unit and forced to stay with Auntie Q. But as the days pass, she realizes Auntie Q, and her nail salon, aren't as bad as she thought. Maybe coming to Albuquerque wasn't a punishment after all, but an opportunity.
There's a lot to unpack here; familial discord, filial piety, and of course the good old kids learning from their mistakes. Domi isn't a perfect kid, but she's reflective and takes the opportunity to learn not only from her own errors but from others as well. I also loved that this was a middle grade book featuring a friendship with zero implications of romantic feelings. Would recommend for perhaps 5th or 6th graders.
Because of The Incident, Domi has been sent away to her aunt's in Albuquerque, NM with no electronics to earn money and repay her parents $500. Hurt and upset, she can't believe that she's being punished in this way, cast out from her own family unit and forced to stay with Auntie Q. But as the days pass, she realizes Auntie Q, and her nail salon, aren't as bad as she thought. Maybe coming to Albuquerque wasn't a punishment after all, but an opportunity.
There's a lot to unpack here; familial discord, filial piety, and of course the good old kids learning from their mistakes. Domi isn't a perfect kid, but she's reflective and takes the opportunity to learn not only from her own errors but from others as well. I also loved that this was a middle grade book featuring a friendship with zero implications of romantic feelings. Would recommend for perhaps 5th or 6th graders.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Domi Pham has not only been banned from all computer use after an expensive misunderstanding involving another student's tablet at school, but her parents also decide that she will be spending the summer with her Auntie Q, helping out at her nail salon in order to earn $500 to pay them back. Arizona is quite different from California, and Domi doesn't know Q well at all. Her mother, a lawyer, left home for college and never really went back, and her aunt has a house cluttered with years worth of family memorabilia. Her nail salon, Nails, is unremarkable from the outside, but recently renovated inside. There's a reliable, largely Vietnamese staff and steady clientele, but the opening of a new salon, Glitzy, in the local mall is cutting into business. Domi spends each day in the salon, doing small tasks to help out the operators, and honing her own nail polishing skills on the children of clients. She meets Bobby, whose parents own the nearby Pho restaurant, and the two think about helping to update the salon's internet presence since Bobby has an interest in coding and Domi loves to draw, although Q is very reluctant. Domi slowly earns money from tips to pay down her debt, but uses a large portion of it to pay for her and Bobby to experience the spa treatment at Glitzy in order to understand the competition. She discovers a lot of things that might help the business, but her aunt is furious. Q has a history with Glitzy of which Domi was unaware, and the two have a fight. Domi feels that no adults in her life understand her, and takes off on a long walk. After several hours, she realizes she is lost and asks a woman working at a drugstore to call her aunt. Q has panicked, searched for hours, and called Domi's mother, who is on her way. The visit between Domi's mother and Q is fraught, but the two discuss their differences and process long held family trauma in a productive manner. There's even some headway made on cleaning out some of Q's hoarded boxes. When Domi's father arrives, the family even tries to take a break from work and see some of the sights. Even though Domi has spent most of her summer trying to earn money as quickly as possible in order to return home sooner, she becomes very invested in the success of the salon. When her mother and Q fight again, she doesn't want to leave. Some of the updates to the salon cause the owner of Glitzy to threaten to sue for copyright infringement, but Domi's mother uses her lawyer knowledge to deflect these accusations. Domi is able to return home with new insights into her family's background, and a new appreciation for her family.
Strengths: The nail salon setting is such a fun and interesting one, and hasn't been portrayed much in middle grade literature (except for Santopolo's 2014 Sparkle Spa for slightly younger readers), and it is my understanding that many salons are staffed by immigrants. I've never had my nails done, so I can't speak to the accuracy of portrayal, but now I sort of want to go... and leave a big tip! Domi is a very resilient character who is not happy with the plans her parents have made for the summer, but does acknowledge her role in the misunderstanding, and tries to be helpful to her aunt and the staff at Nails. She and Bobby work well together, and use their skills to really help out the salon. There are plenty of fun scenes, like the trip to Glitzy, but also a lot of good coverage of the often difficult immigrant experience. The reverberations of this are seen in the mother and aunt's difficult relationship, which is resolved only when the two confront the past and their feelings about it and finally talk to each other. The cover of this is great, and I love all of the nail polish colors!
Weaknesses: I'm not usually a fan of flashbacks, but the mother and aunt's experiences leaving Vietnam, and the difficulties they faced in the US with their own mother, might have been more effective shown this way. Even an introductory chapter showing the events of that time would have made the experience seem more immediate before picking up Domi's story. It's such important information, and seeing it tiny bits at a time might make it harder for young readers to connect to it.
What I really think: This is and interesting look inside the workings of a small business and a good choice for readers who enjoyed tales of other family run businesses like Hirandani's How to Find What You're Not Looking For, Yee's Maizy Chen's Last Chance, Mancillas' Taco Tuesday, or Granillo's Cruzita and the Mariacheros.
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Domi Pham has not only been banned from all computer use after an expensive misunderstanding involving another student's tablet at school, but her parents also decide that she will be spending the summer with her Auntie Q, helping out at her nail salon in order to earn $500 to pay them back. Arizona is quite different from California, and Domi doesn't know Q well at all. Her mother, a lawyer, left home for college and never really went back, and her aunt has a house cluttered with years worth of family memorabilia. Her nail salon, Nails, is unremarkable from the outside, but recently renovated inside. There's a reliable, largely Vietnamese staff and steady clientele, but the opening of a new salon, Glitzy, in the local mall is cutting into business. Domi spends each day in the salon, doing small tasks to help out the operators, and honing her own nail polishing skills on the children of clients. She meets Bobby, whose parents own the nearby Pho restaurant, and the two think about helping to update the salon's internet presence since Bobby has an interest in coding and Domi loves to draw, although Q is very reluctant. Domi slowly earns money from tips to pay down her debt, but uses a large portion of it to pay for her and Bobby to experience the spa treatment at Glitzy in order to understand the competition. She discovers a lot of things that might help the business, but her aunt is furious. Q has a history with Glitzy of which Domi was unaware, and the two have a fight. Domi feels that no adults in her life understand her, and takes off on a long walk. After several hours, she realizes she is lost and asks a woman working at a drugstore to call her aunt. Q has panicked, searched for hours, and called Domi's mother, who is on her way. The visit between Domi's mother and Q is fraught, but the two discuss their differences and process long held family trauma in a productive manner. There's even some headway made on cleaning out some of Q's hoarded boxes. When Domi's father arrives, the family even tries to take a break from work and see some of the sights. Even though Domi has spent most of her summer trying to earn money as quickly as possible in order to return home sooner, she becomes very invested in the success of the salon. When her mother and Q fight again, she doesn't want to leave. Some of the updates to the salon cause the owner of Glitzy to threaten to sue for copyright infringement, but Domi's mother uses her lawyer knowledge to deflect these accusations. Domi is able to return home with new insights into her family's background, and a new appreciation for her family.
Strengths: The nail salon setting is such a fun and interesting one, and hasn't been portrayed much in middle grade literature (except for Santopolo's 2014 Sparkle Spa for slightly younger readers), and it is my understanding that many salons are staffed by immigrants. I've never had my nails done, so I can't speak to the accuracy of portrayal, but now I sort of want to go... and leave a big tip! Domi is a very resilient character who is not happy with the plans her parents have made for the summer, but does acknowledge her role in the misunderstanding, and tries to be helpful to her aunt and the staff at Nails. She and Bobby work well together, and use their skills to really help out the salon. There are plenty of fun scenes, like the trip to Glitzy, but also a lot of good coverage of the often difficult immigrant experience. The reverberations of this are seen in the mother and aunt's difficult relationship, which is resolved only when the two confront the past and their feelings about it and finally talk to each other. The cover of this is great, and I love all of the nail polish colors!
Weaknesses: I'm not usually a fan of flashbacks, but the mother and aunt's experiences leaving Vietnam, and the difficulties they faced in the US with their own mother, might have been more effective shown this way. Even an introductory chapter showing the events of that time would have made the experience seem more immediate before picking up Domi's story. It's such important information, and seeing it tiny bits at a time might make it harder for young readers to connect to it.
What I really think: This is and interesting look inside the workings of a small business and a good choice for readers who enjoyed tales of other family run businesses like Hirandani's How to Find What You're Not Looking For, Yee's Maizy Chen's Last Chance, Mancillas' Taco Tuesday, or Granillo's Cruzita and the Mariacheros.
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
April 26, 2026
Thank you netgalley for a copy.
Twelve-year-old Domi Pham thought she had the perfect summer ahead — lounging by the pool, making art with her best friend, and enjoying her freedom after seventh grade. But after making a costly mistake that shows she’s never really had to value hard work or her aunt’s money, Domi is sent to work at her Auntie Q’s struggling nail salon. There, she meets a lively crew including Be, Tony, Bobby, Tho, Hai, Emily, and more. What starts as punishment quickly turns into a summer of learning the true value of hard work, family, and seeing the world differently. With creativity and heart, Domi helps keep the salon afloat while navigating family tensions, past mistakes, and the joy of being present.
It’s a funny, sweet, and uplifting story about first jobs, second chances, family bonds, and discovering what really matters.
Is it character-driven or plot-driven?
This book is delightfully character-driven at its core, with the gentle plot serving as the perfect vehicle for growth and relationships. The focus stays on Domi’s journey of self-discovery and her evolving connections with her aunt, mom, coworkers, and the quirky salon crew. Their interactions feel warm and real, showing how small everyday moments can lead to big changes in how we value people and hard work.
My Thoughts
Auntie Q's Golden Claws Nail Salon gave me such a cute, cozy look at family dynamics and what it really means to value things. Domi starts out not fully appreciating her aunt or her money — she’s never really had to work hard until this summer punishment sends her straight into the bustling world of Auntie Q’s nail salon.
There, she meets a whole colorful cast: Be, Tony, Bobby, Tho, Hai, Emily, and the rest of the crew. Through manicures, conversations, and plenty of hands-on work, Domi learns the value of hard work and begins to see her aunt, her family, and the world differently. She sees where her mom came from and starts valuing things more deeply. To help her aunt (and Bobby!), they all pitch in and do what they can — but not before some mistakes are made and her mom gets called in.
This brings her family together to come to terms with the past, and it opens Domi’s eyes even more. Her aunt teaches her how to be happy in the present, showing that working and being successful isn’t always about money — it’s about seeing those around you happy and being happy with where you’ve come to.
What I'll Take Away
Ultimately, this is a fun, sweet story on family, love, acceptance, and finding your way. It’s a gentle reminder that everyone learns from one another — mothers from daughters, aunties from nieces, and kids from the grown-ups around them. Domi’s summer at the salon highlights how second chances, hard work, and being present can transform not just one person, but an entire family. It left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling about cherishing the people who support us and appreciating the simple joy in everyday effort.
One-Sentence Review
A heartwarming and humorous middle-grade tale about a girl whose summer punishment at her auntie’s nail salon turns into a delightful lesson in hard work, family forgiveness, second chances, and finding happiness right where you are — complete with a lovable cast that feels like one big, supportive (and slightly chaotic) family.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes, wholeheartedly! This is perfect for middle-grade readers (ages 8–12) who enjoy contemporary stories with strong family themes, character growth, and a touch of humor — think fans of books like Front Desk by Kelly Yang or gentle, feel-good stories about belonging and acceptance. It’s also great for anyone who loves heartwarming tales about unlikely workplaces turning into found family, or parents/grandparents looking for a sweet read to share with kids. If you’re in the mood for something uplifting that celebrates hard work, forgiveness, and being happy in the present, this one’s a gem.
Twelve-year-old Domi Pham thought she had the perfect summer ahead — lounging by the pool, making art with her best friend, and enjoying her freedom after seventh grade. But after making a costly mistake that shows she’s never really had to value hard work or her aunt’s money, Domi is sent to work at her Auntie Q’s struggling nail salon. There, she meets a lively crew including Be, Tony, Bobby, Tho, Hai, Emily, and more. What starts as punishment quickly turns into a summer of learning the true value of hard work, family, and seeing the world differently. With creativity and heart, Domi helps keep the salon afloat while navigating family tensions, past mistakes, and the joy of being present.
It’s a funny, sweet, and uplifting story about first jobs, second chances, family bonds, and discovering what really matters.
Is it character-driven or plot-driven?
This book is delightfully character-driven at its core, with the gentle plot serving as the perfect vehicle for growth and relationships. The focus stays on Domi’s journey of self-discovery and her evolving connections with her aunt, mom, coworkers, and the quirky salon crew. Their interactions feel warm and real, showing how small everyday moments can lead to big changes in how we value people and hard work.
My Thoughts
Auntie Q's Golden Claws Nail Salon gave me such a cute, cozy look at family dynamics and what it really means to value things. Domi starts out not fully appreciating her aunt or her money — she’s never really had to work hard until this summer punishment sends her straight into the bustling world of Auntie Q’s nail salon.
There, she meets a whole colorful cast: Be, Tony, Bobby, Tho, Hai, Emily, and the rest of the crew. Through manicures, conversations, and plenty of hands-on work, Domi learns the value of hard work and begins to see her aunt, her family, and the world differently. She sees where her mom came from and starts valuing things more deeply. To help her aunt (and Bobby!), they all pitch in and do what they can — but not before some mistakes are made and her mom gets called in.
This brings her family together to come to terms with the past, and it opens Domi’s eyes even more. Her aunt teaches her how to be happy in the present, showing that working and being successful isn’t always about money — it’s about seeing those around you happy and being happy with where you’ve come to.
What I'll Take Away
Ultimately, this is a fun, sweet story on family, love, acceptance, and finding your way. It’s a gentle reminder that everyone learns from one another — mothers from daughters, aunties from nieces, and kids from the grown-ups around them. Domi’s summer at the salon highlights how second chances, hard work, and being present can transform not just one person, but an entire family. It left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling about cherishing the people who support us and appreciating the simple joy in everyday effort.
One-Sentence Review
A heartwarming and humorous middle-grade tale about a girl whose summer punishment at her auntie’s nail salon turns into a delightful lesson in hard work, family forgiveness, second chances, and finding happiness right where you are — complete with a lovable cast that feels like one big, supportive (and slightly chaotic) family.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes, wholeheartedly! This is perfect for middle-grade readers (ages 8–12) who enjoy contemporary stories with strong family themes, character growth, and a touch of humor — think fans of books like Front Desk by Kelly Yang or gentle, feel-good stories about belonging and acceptance. It’s also great for anyone who loves heartwarming tales about unlikely workplaces turning into found family, or parents/grandparents looking for a sweet read to share with kids. If you’re in the mood for something uplifting that celebrates hard work, forgiveness, and being happy in the present, this one’s a gem.
April 11, 2026
This book was such fun to read as I learned so much about the Vietnamese-American culture. Twelve year old Domi had planned the perfect summer having fun with her friends and attending an art camp - until "it" happened! She was wrongfully accused of stealing a tablet that she had paid another student for and no one seemed concerned that she was actually a victim as she did not know the student who sold it to her had actually stolen tie tablet. As punishment, her parents send her to her Aunt Q's for the summer so she can repay her parents $500 to the original owner's parents. Domi has not seen her Auntie Q much over the years, feels apprehensive at first, then comes to really like her aunt and enjoy working at her nail salon.
Domi soon learns that the nail salon is behind on rent and in danger of closing. She vows to do whatever she can to help her aunt save her salon and earn money. She starts doing little tasks for the technicians and entertaining clients children, which comes to include painting their nails for free. She also makes friends with Bobby, whose parents own the Ph0' restaurant next door. Together, the duo decide to do everything they can to get Auntie Q to agree to modernizing with a website and online reservations. Naturally, there are several bumps in the road, but they do not let that stop them!
This is a perfect book for middle grade readers! Especially if they are interested in nails, manicures, business, and learning to get along with co-workers and their own families.
Thank you Net Galley, Macmillian Children's Publishing Group, Roaring Book Press, and Van Hoang for allowing me to read this ARC.
Domi soon learns that the nail salon is behind on rent and in danger of closing. She vows to do whatever she can to help her aunt save her salon and earn money. She starts doing little tasks for the technicians and entertaining clients children, which comes to include painting their nails for free. She also makes friends with Bobby, whose parents own the Ph0' restaurant next door. Together, the duo decide to do everything they can to get Auntie Q to agree to modernizing with a website and online reservations. Naturally, there are several bumps in the road, but they do not let that stop them!
This is a perfect book for middle grade readers! Especially if they are interested in nails, manicures, business, and learning to get along with co-workers and their own families.
Thank you Net Galley, Macmillian Children's Publishing Group, Roaring Book Press, and Van Hoang for allowing me to read this ARC.
June 13, 2026
Domi is sent to New Mexico for the summer to work at her estranged aunt's nail salon, and she's far from thrilled about leaving her friends behind and missing out on an art class she had been looking forward to. Once she arrives, she quickly realizes that tensions between her aunt and her mother run deeper than she expected. To make matters worse, she's expected to spend every day working at the salon while trying to earn $500 to repay her parents for a costly mistake she made during the school year.
Although Domi gets off to a rocky start, she gradually settles in. She strikes up a friendship with Bobby, the son of the family who runs the pho restaurant next door, and begins to learn more about the nail salon employees, their stories, and the challenges they face. As she grows closer to them, Domi discovers there's much more to the salon and its workers than she initially assumed. Determined to help, she sets out with Bobby to find ways to revamp the struggling business and attract more customers, hoping to improve its financial future.
I especially enjoyed Domi's dedication to helping others and the strong cast of characters who make up the nail salon community. However, I would have liked to see more development of the conflict between Domi's mother and aunt as well as a deeper exploration of Domi's relationship with her mother and the way she is treated throughout the story.
Thank you Edelweiss for an ARC.
Although Domi gets off to a rocky start, she gradually settles in. She strikes up a friendship with Bobby, the son of the family who runs the pho restaurant next door, and begins to learn more about the nail salon employees, their stories, and the challenges they face. As she grows closer to them, Domi discovers there's much more to the salon and its workers than she initially assumed. Determined to help, she sets out with Bobby to find ways to revamp the struggling business and attract more customers, hoping to improve its financial future.
I especially enjoyed Domi's dedication to helping others and the strong cast of characters who make up the nail salon community. However, I would have liked to see more development of the conflict between Domi's mother and aunt as well as a deeper exploration of Domi's relationship with her mother and the way she is treated throughout the story.
Thank you Edelweiss for an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Sort of Spoiler Note: I think the title and the cover of this book are spoilers for what's inside. but that probably won't be noted by readers!
This is a typical tween novel, with a very standard trope - an unwanted summer visit to relatives becomes a wonderful learning journey for the reluctant traveler. What sets this one apart is the locale - - a Vietnamese run nail salon-- and an introduction to Vietnamese culture. And the writing is excellent, the characters believable and secondary characters allowed to develop nicely.
This again is a tween book, not an adult novel But a good tween book can have things to say to an adult reader, and these words from Auntie Q really got to me:
If there's one thing I've learned is that you should cherish the people in your life, the ones who love you. Make sure they know. Because one day they will be gone...and you will always wonder if they understand how much they mean to you. You'll always regret not telling.
One small complaint: there is too much mouth watering food in this book and it is all I can do tonight not to order out Vietnamese or get the ingredients for summer rolls!
This is a typical tween novel, with a very standard trope - an unwanted summer visit to relatives becomes a wonderful learning journey for the reluctant traveler. What sets this one apart is the locale - - a Vietnamese run nail salon-- and an introduction to Vietnamese culture. And the writing is excellent, the characters believable and secondary characters allowed to develop nicely.
This again is a tween book, not an adult novel But a good tween book can have things to say to an adult reader, and these words from Auntie Q really got to me:
If there's one thing I've learned is that you should cherish the people in your life, the ones who love you. Make sure they know. Because one day they will be gone...and you will always wonder if they understand how much they mean to you. You'll always regret not telling.
One small complaint: there is too much mouth watering food in this book and it is all I can do tonight not to order out Vietnamese or get the ingredients for summer rolls!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Book Report: Auntie Q’s Golden Claws Nail Salon by Van Hoang
I can’t believe I went the entire month of March without celebrating Middle Grade March! But this past week I spotted my early copy of Auntie Q’s Golden Claws Nail Salon on NetGalley and dove right in…and what a gem it was!
Twelve year old Domi has her perfect summer ruined after one big mistake sends her to New Mexico to work off her debt at Auntie Q’s nail salon💸💅 What starts as a punishment slowly becomes a summer of connection…creativity and major character growth as Domi realizes the salon and the aunties/uncles inside it…need her just as much as she needs them🌼✨
Some of my favorite middle grade books take place over a single transformative summer and this one delivers that journey beautifully!
Full of…
🪴growth
💅community
😂humor
🧡& heart
I adored Domi…the entire nail crew and Bobby (a winter break wedding?! IYKYK 💍😂). This was my first book by Van Hoang, and I’ll definitely be checking out more of her work.
Thank you Roaring Brook Press for the advanced ecopy!
Releases 4/21
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
I can’t believe I went the entire month of March without celebrating Middle Grade March! But this past week I spotted my early copy of Auntie Q’s Golden Claws Nail Salon on NetGalley and dove right in…and what a gem it was!
Twelve year old Domi has her perfect summer ruined after one big mistake sends her to New Mexico to work off her debt at Auntie Q’s nail salon💸💅 What starts as a punishment slowly becomes a summer of connection…creativity and major character growth as Domi realizes the salon and the aunties/uncles inside it…need her just as much as she needs them🌼✨
Some of my favorite middle grade books take place over a single transformative summer and this one delivers that journey beautifully!
Full of…
🪴growth
💅community
😂humor
🧡& heart
I adored Domi…the entire nail crew and Bobby (a winter break wedding?! IYKYK 💍😂). This was my first book by Van Hoang, and I’ll definitely be checking out more of her work.
Thank you Roaring Brook Press for the advanced ecopy!
Releases 4/21
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
April 24, 2026
****4.5 stars****
Domi is banished to Albuquerque for the summer while she works in her auntie's nail salon to repay her parents $500 for The Incident. Without any technology to access her friends or to do any artwork, she is doomed to spend long days manning the front desk in hopes of earning a few tips here and there. The kicker is that the nail salon is in dire straights, especially with a highly competitive new salon that just opened at the mall. Can Domi hope to raise the $500 needed to go home early? Will she be able to help save the salon?
This was a very engaging middle grade novel with high stakes family drama, and the reader will learn a lot about Vietnamese culture. The salon employs a whole slew of dynamic characters, but despite their quirks, you won't be able to help but cheer for each one. Domi is an earnest main character with relatable flaws and a good heart. The cover is vibrant and screams "read me!" This would make a great addition to a summer reading list.
*Thank you to Netgalley, Van Hoang, and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.*
Domi is banished to Albuquerque for the summer while she works in her auntie's nail salon to repay her parents $500 for The Incident. Without any technology to access her friends or to do any artwork, she is doomed to spend long days manning the front desk in hopes of earning a few tips here and there. The kicker is that the nail salon is in dire straights, especially with a highly competitive new salon that just opened at the mall. Can Domi hope to raise the $500 needed to go home early? Will she be able to help save the salon?
This was a very engaging middle grade novel with high stakes family drama, and the reader will learn a lot about Vietnamese culture. The salon employs a whole slew of dynamic characters, but despite their quirks, you won't be able to help but cheer for each one. Domi is an earnest main character with relatable flaws and a good heart. The cover is vibrant and screams "read me!" This would make a great addition to a summer reading list.
*Thank you to Netgalley, Van Hoang, and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.*
November 2, 2025
#AuntieQsGoldenClawsNailSalon #NetGalley
The brightly hued cover camouflages a story with depth. From the start, the author engrosses the reader in Domi's story. Her resentment against her parents is palatable. For (initially) an unknown reason, she is shipped off to an Auntie Q as a form of punishment for an unspeakable transgression.
The author skillfully reveals the origin story of this at exactly the right moment. That's just one reason to pick up this book. Other reasons include portraying the Vietnamese immigrant journey after the fall of Vietnam with sensitivity. She describes the harrowing experiences of the initial generation in this county and how it spills onto the next. She illuminates reasons how Vietnamese owned nail salons in the US are metaphorical vehicles for ambition, family, and dreams. Excellent read !!
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Roaring Brook Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The brightly hued cover camouflages a story with depth. From the start, the author engrosses the reader in Domi's story. Her resentment against her parents is palatable. For (initially) an unknown reason, she is shipped off to an Auntie Q as a form of punishment for an unspeakable transgression.
The author skillfully reveals the origin story of this at exactly the right moment. That's just one reason to pick up this book. Other reasons include portraying the Vietnamese immigrant journey after the fall of Vietnam with sensitivity. She describes the harrowing experiences of the initial generation in this county and how it spills onto the next. She illuminates reasons how Vietnamese owned nail salons in the US are metaphorical vehicles for ambition, family, and dreams. Excellent read !!
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Roaring Brook Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is such a lovely book. Domi’s character is vibrant and so engaging for younger readers. Each auntie that works in the nail salon is also so realistic that you just fall in love with them. I think this is a lovely depiction of a culture that many readers haven’t engaged with, and if this is their first encounter it is one that would leave them wanting to learn more. Domi herself has such a lovely arch and while I am sad about the circumstances that led her to be sent to her Auntie Q, the relationship and bond they form over the summer is such a fabulous one. It is one that allows her to start repairing her relationship not only with her Auntie, but her family overall. Honestly this is just such a beautiful book with a stunning message. Young readers are really going to enjoy this book, and I am excited to get it in their hands soon.
Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
May 29, 2026
Domi made a pretty big mistake and to (literally) pay for it, she is being sent to her aunt's nail salon for the summer to earn $500. She barely knows her aunt as Domi's mom and her sister are fairly estranged due to incidents from their childhood, which get explored later in the book. At the shop she meets the employees who keep things running. They are an eclectic but loyal crew. Despite missing her parents and being upset about being sent away, Domi gradually settles in to her new routine and realizes how much she likes her aunt and the nail salon.
There is a lot to appreciate here with a protagonist who has made a mistake but is learning and growing as well as the family dynamics and the interesting personae of the nail salon crew. Some of the nuances of the family history between the mom and aunt are a bit difficult to understand but it doesn't diminish the strength of the story.
There is a lot to appreciate here with a protagonist who has made a mistake but is learning and growing as well as the family dynamics and the interesting personae of the nail salon crew. Some of the nuances of the family history between the mom and aunt are a bit difficult to understand but it doesn't diminish the strength of the story.
June 15, 2026
Hoang did a fantastic job with this narrative, really capturing the authentic voice of the main character who is "forced" to spend the summer with her aunt working in her aunt's nail salon to pay back her parents for a mistake (that we learn more about as the narrative unfolds.) I immediately engaged with the main character as she struggled to find her place and figure out how to make up for her mistake. I could not, however give this book more than four stars because Hoang does bring up a couple issues that do not receive adequate attention or explanation such as her aunt's hoarding tendencies or the actual reason why her aunt and her mother are estranged. (The narrative provides a small explanation but that explanation does not really make sense or provide adequate resolution.) Overall, I think that this book is a really strong read and one that many middle school readers will be able to engage with and enjoy.
September 12, 2025
Auntie Q's Golden Claws Nail Salon sparkles with heart, and humor. Set in a nail salon that’s anything but ordinary, the story follows Domi to her aunt’s house for a summer of work to earn back money (and her parents trust) after a misunderstanding. Though Domi begins the summer searching for ways to go home early, she becomes increasingly fond of her aunt and the motely cast of characters at the salon. Auntie Q is a standout character: wise, quirky, and full of surprises. The salon is brought to life with vivid descriptions that make you wish you could book an appointment yourself. Themes of family, identity, and courage are woven seamlessly into the plot, making it both entertaining and meaningful. At the end of the story, not only has Domi been transformed, but so has her aunt, her mother, and the whole staff of the salon.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
I loved this middle grade novel about Domi's summer working in her aunt's nail salon. Why?
- Because the story is deeply rooted in Vietnamese-American culture and at the same time, is a universal story of a 12-year-old girl growing and trying to figure out life.
- Because Domi's voice is unique and fun, even as she deals with her own challenges and begins to see the heaviness of the lives of some of the aunties and uncles in the shop.
- Because the book is real in describing the tension between Domi and her mother as well as between her aunt and her mother.
- Because even though I'm an adult reader, I couldn't put the book down. I needed to find out how Domi and Bobby, the son of the owners of the restaurant next to the salon, manage to save the salon. I can't wait to recommend it to middle grade readers.
Review based on a DRC received from Edelweiss+.
- Because the story is deeply rooted in Vietnamese-American culture and at the same time, is a universal story of a 12-year-old girl growing and trying to figure out life.
- Because Domi's voice is unique and fun, even as she deals with her own challenges and begins to see the heaviness of the lives of some of the aunties and uncles in the shop.
- Because the book is real in describing the tension between Domi and her mother as well as between her aunt and her mother.
- Because even though I'm an adult reader, I couldn't put the book down. I needed to find out how Domi and Bobby, the son of the owners of the restaurant next to the salon, manage to save the salon. I can't wait to recommend it to middle grade readers.
Review based on a DRC received from Edelweiss+.
August 4, 2026
I thought this might go a more fantastical route, but it's really just a deeply immersive novel about being a kid of Vietnamese heritage making up for a mistake by working at her auntie's nail salon for the summer. That description doesn't touch the great emotional journey several of the characters make, or how hard it is to paint nails well, or how fascinating the daily life of a salon is -- and there's a rival place in town and a new friend next door who has a flat aspect but an interest in coding -- and the main character is into drawing and it's all just good. It's about working hard for the things and people you love, and knowing why the work is worth it. It's about making mistakes and learning from them. It's about all the hidden stories of the people around us, that we generally don't get to know. Lots of heart, well done.
September 19, 2026
FINALLY a middle-grade book I would love to hand to a middle-grader! Auntie Q’s niece, Domi, is sent to live with her for the summer as a punishment. Over the course of the weeks she spends working at her aunt’s nail salon, she learns the importance of hard work, family, creativity, and human connection. Unlike literally every other middle-grade novel, the parents aren’t dead, depressed, or incapacitated by chronic illness! Though flawed, they are loving and doing the best they can. There are no token references to any hot button topics, and as a result, the characters and story seem real! I just loved seeing a kid learning from her immigrant family and working hard to make everyone around her’s life just a little bit better.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Twelve year old Domi made some poor choices at the end of the school year, so her parents have sent her to Albuquerque to spend the summer helping in her aunt's nail salon. She hasn't seen her aunt since she was little. It is a rough transition for Domi, from her privileged life in LA. It gives her time to reflect on how she ended up there, and also find empathy for her aunt and the other nail salon workers. This was an incredibly relatable story, and would make fantastic summer reading! Middle grade readers will be cheering for Domi's success and learning a little something along on the way. Highly recommended for grades 4 & up.
eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss
eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss
July 27, 2026
Twelve-year-old Domi is distraught when her parents banish her to New Mexico, where she must spend the summer working in her estranged aunt's failing nail salon. That's the price she has to pay after making a big mistake at school involving a stolen tablet. Much to Domi's surprise, the salon, her Auntie Q, and the Vietnamese aunties and uncles who work in the salon quickly grow on Domi. Complex family dynamics and charming characters fuel the story as Domi and her new friends attempt to save Auntie Q's business. Along the way, Domi explores her identity as an artist and as a first generation Vietnamese American in this tender coming-of-age story.
August 2, 2026
A cute middle grade novel about family, responsibility and modern Vietnamese life in the US. Domi is sent to help her auntie in New Mexico after "the Incident." She must make $500 to pay her parents back in her auntie's nail salon. Quite reluctant at first, Domi soon learns to love her Auntie and all the employees at the salon. Domi and her new friend Bobby soon imagine a way they can help the nail salon stay afloat, despite the competition of the glitzy nail salon that just opened up at the mall. This was a cute story. I love learning about the ins ans outs of nail salons and Vietnamese-American culture!
August 2, 2026
Auntie Q's Golden Nail Salon is one of the BEST middle-grade novels that I've ever read.
The story is about Domi, a 12-year-old Vietnamese girl who is sent to live with her (mostly unknown) aunt over the summer, as punishment for an incident that happened. Auntie's nail salon isn't doing well, but Domi is determined to work hard while she's there.
I was SO invested in each of these characters and their backstories. Every moment with them was so warm and heartfelt that you couldn't help but root for their success. This is such a beautifully done book, and definitely worth recommending to anyone who loves family healing, found family, and rooting for someone else's success.
The story is about Domi, a 12-year-old Vietnamese girl who is sent to live with her (mostly unknown) aunt over the summer, as punishment for an incident that happened. Auntie's nail salon isn't doing well, but Domi is determined to work hard while she's there.
I was SO invested in each of these characters and their backstories. Every moment with them was so warm and heartfelt that you couldn't help but root for their success. This is such a beautifully done book, and definitely worth recommending to anyone who loves family healing, found family, and rooting for someone else's success.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I thought Auntie Q's Golden Claws Nail Salon was so cute, just like the cover! The colors drew me in instantly and I wanted to know more about Domi's summer. Without giving away too much of the story, turns out there is more to the story that Domi lets on, but wanting to help her Aunt out she is determined she can help both of them by the end of her stay there. I loved the family aspects in this book and the twist I wasn't expecting! Also the food all sounded so good!
I thought Auntie Q's Golden Claws Nail Salon was so cute, just like the cover! The colors drew me in instantly and I wanted to know more about Domi's summer. Without giving away too much of the story, turns out there is more to the story that Domi lets on, but wanting to help her Aunt out she is determined she can help both of them by the end of her stay there. I loved the family aspects in this book and the twist I wasn't expecting! Also the food all sounded so good!
May 25, 2026
Author: Van Hoang
Title: Auntie Q's Golden Claws Nail Salon
Publication date: 2026
Category: Realistic Fiction or Multicultural
Interest level: 4th Grade and up
Brief Annotation: After Domi messes up, she is sent to her Auntie Q to help pay off her debt at her Aunt's nail salon. Domi learns more about her family as well as about the nail salon's money problems. With the help of a new friend, Domi tries to save the salon.
Themes: Family, Vietnam, Vietnamese, Nail salon, economics
Ways to use this book with children: This would be a great book to use with money math and/or beginning level economics, because the book can be read through that lens. It can also be a solid reader's advisory suggestion.
Diversity: Domi's family is Vietnamese and the workers are also Vietnamese.
Where/how you found the book: I know I got it from the library, but I am not sure why. It may have been put on hold prior to this class.
Title: Auntie Q's Golden Claws Nail Salon
Publication date: 2026
Category: Realistic Fiction or Multicultural
Interest level: 4th Grade and up
Brief Annotation: After Domi messes up, she is sent to her Auntie Q to help pay off her debt at her Aunt's nail salon. Domi learns more about her family as well as about the nail salon's money problems. With the help of a new friend, Domi tries to save the salon.
Themes: Family, Vietnam, Vietnamese, Nail salon, economics
Ways to use this book with children: This would be a great book to use with money math and/or beginning level economics, because the book can be read through that lens. It can also be a solid reader's advisory suggestion.
Diversity: Domi's family is Vietnamese and the workers are also Vietnamese.
Where/how you found the book: I know I got it from the library, but I am not sure why. It may have been put on hold prior to this class.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Domi is stuck spending the summer with her Auntie Q after an unfortunate incident resulting in her needing to pay her parents back $500. Despite her initial reluctance, the support from her aunt gives her the strength to try new things and learn about her past.
This story is both heartwarming and humorous. I loved the setting of the novel as well as Auntie Q's character. A great read for a middle grade collection!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC!
This story is both heartwarming and humorous. I loved the setting of the novel as well as Auntie Q's character. A great read for a middle grade collection!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC!
June 4, 2026
Twelve-year old Domi is sent to live with her aunt after a mistake has cost her family money that she must earn to pay her parents back. How will she earn that money as a 12 year old? Working in her auntie's nail salon! The salon functions as a "family" and Domi learns how this work place is more than just a place to earn money! So many likable characters, wonderful food descriptions, and Domi's evolving entrepreneurship!
August 25, 2026
What a rich story of entrepreneurial spirit and family connection! I appreciated the growth that Domi’s character went through as she learned the value of hard work and comradery. Her relationship with Auntie Q was touching and realistic. A small part of this reminded me of The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli (especially Luli’s story), though that book was more layered and this one is more accessible.
July 4, 2026
DNF for Auntie Q's Golden Claws Nail Salon. The nail-salon and Vietnamese-language details are interesting, but "an Incident referred to but not explained until much later" and "saving the family business" are both kidlit tropes that aren't my personal favorites, so unfortunately this one wasn't clicking for me.
April 30, 2026
This was cute! I liked this a lot. That poor kid tho. All the adults except for one were not what I thought they should be. I know that doesn't make sense, but spoilers lol Real review to come to my blog later if you want to see what I mean.
September 27, 2026
I really liked this story. I wish that I could have audiobooked it though, I always appreciate hearing names and phrases in a foreign language. When I read them, it’s a challenge. It might have been helpful to have listed Vietnamese names/words with phonetic pronunciations in the back.
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