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Front Desk: The Graphic Novel
The graphic novel adaptation of Kelly Yang's New York Times bestselling book Front Desk!Mia Tang has a lot of secrets.Number 1: She lives in a motel, not a big house. Every day, while her immigrant parents clean the rooms, ten-year-old Mia manages the front desk of the Calivista Motel and tends to its guests.Number 2: Her parents hide immigrants. And if the mean motel owner, Mr. Yao, finds out they've been letting them stay in the empty rooms for free, the Tangs will be doomed.Number 3: She wants to be a writer. But how can she when her mom thinks she should stick to math because English is not her first language?It will take all of Mia's courage, kindness, and hard work to get through this year. Will she be able to hold on to her job, help the immigrants and guests, escape Mr. Yao, and go for her dreams?See Mia and her friends brought to life in this graphic novel adaptation with art by Fumio Obata!
240 pages, Paperback
First published October 20, 2026
About the author
Kelly Yang
32 books2,638 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 34 reviews
October 21, 2026
Yes!!
I read the fiction book when it came out and of course fell in love with the series.
I was so excited to learn that a graphic novel was in the works. It is ah-mazing!
I adore Mia. A book friend forever!!
I read the fiction book when it came out and of course fell in love with the series.
I was so excited to learn that a graphic novel was in the works. It is ah-mazing!
I adore Mia. A book friend forever!!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
The highly-anticipated graphic novel adaptation for Front Desk by @kellyyanghk
🏨
Ten-year-old Mia Tang helps run the Calivista Motel while her immigrant parents clean rooms and secretly offer shelter to other families in need. Balancing school, demanding guests, and the constant fear of their strict boss discovering the truth, Mia also dreams of becoming a writer, even (and especially) when others doubt her. Through courage, kindness, and determination, Mia learns to stand up for her family, her community, and her own voice.
🏨
Some books you wish you could wipe your mind and read again for the very first time, and this is absolutely one of them. While I can’t erase my memory, getting to experience this story in a new format felt just as special. The artwork is stunning, with rich colors that bring Mia’s world to life in a whole new way. This graphic novel adaptation is a must-read when it releases from @scholastic on October 20.
CW: classism, racism, bullying, violence, police brutality, injury, alcohol, blood
🏨
Ten-year-old Mia Tang helps run the Calivista Motel while her immigrant parents clean rooms and secretly offer shelter to other families in need. Balancing school, demanding guests, and the constant fear of their strict boss discovering the truth, Mia also dreams of becoming a writer, even (and especially) when others doubt her. Through courage, kindness, and determination, Mia learns to stand up for her family, her community, and her own voice.
🏨
Some books you wish you could wipe your mind and read again for the very first time, and this is absolutely one of them. While I can’t erase my memory, getting to experience this story in a new format felt just as special. The artwork is stunning, with rich colors that bring Mia’s world to life in a whole new way. This graphic novel adaptation is a must-read when it releases from @scholastic on October 20.
CW: classism, racism, bullying, violence, police brutality, injury, alcohol, blood
Review of advance copy
I wasn't aware that this book wasn't yet published! Regardless, an OBVIOUS 5 stars. 🌟 Most of us know and love the original Front Desk Novel by Kelly Yang, and I personally thought this graphic novel was a really great adaptation! I love everything that Kelly Yang stands for and how the important messages (race, ethnicity, equality) she communicates are just woven through the pages. Really fantastic author, and book!
Based on the author's own personal childhood, we're following Mia Tang, whose family has just moved to the U.S. from China and don't really have much carrying them. When ten-year-old Mia's Mom sees an ad in the paper for a motel looking for management, they jump to the opportunity! Not knowing that the owner of the Callavista Motel, Mr. Yao, is extremely prejudiced and just straight out rude. Mia is hearing a lot of talk of relatives being taken advantage of or spoken about in cruel ways, and is determined to prove to people that anyone should feel welcome and accepted at her family's motel. Luckily, one of the weeklies, Hank, has experienced some discriminatory acts himself and is more than open to helping Mia. Along with all of this, Mia really wants to be a writer, even though her English isn't the best. Her parents discourage the thought because, being Chinese American, Mia has kind of grown up knowing that girls of her ethnicity should stick to math, and that's it. Well, Mia is determined to prove that wrong! The question is, will she be able to save her family's career and figure out her way in America? A poignant story that I know has reached the lives of many in positive ways. 😃💟
Yes, this is partially based on Kelly Yang's actual childhood and some of the troubles she faced growing up, which she addresses so nicely in this graphic novel. All these themes of ethnicity, culture, race, the idea that YOU MATTER, themes that aren't being thought of enough in the world now, are explained so nicely in this. It's light enough to still enjoy the story, but stated explicitly to the point where you know it's something important. I think that's sort of a talent Kelly Yang has! Not to mention, the artwork absolutely brought this story to life, so major kudos to the illustrator on that note! Yeah, I would say any original fans of the book, like myself, will really be pleased with this, and even any newer generations who just happen to pick this up off the shelf! It is worthwhile.
Based on the author's own personal childhood, we're following Mia Tang, whose family has just moved to the U.S. from China and don't really have much carrying them. When ten-year-old Mia's Mom sees an ad in the paper for a motel looking for management, they jump to the opportunity! Not knowing that the owner of the Callavista Motel, Mr. Yao, is extremely prejudiced and just straight out rude. Mia is hearing a lot of talk of relatives being taken advantage of or spoken about in cruel ways, and is determined to prove to people that anyone should feel welcome and accepted at her family's motel. Luckily, one of the weeklies, Hank, has experienced some discriminatory acts himself and is more than open to helping Mia. Along with all of this, Mia really wants to be a writer, even though her English isn't the best. Her parents discourage the thought because, being Chinese American, Mia has kind of grown up knowing that girls of her ethnicity should stick to math, and that's it. Well, Mia is determined to prove that wrong! The question is, will she be able to save her family's career and figure out her way in America? A poignant story that I know has reached the lives of many in positive ways. 😃💟
Yes, this is partially based on Kelly Yang's actual childhood and some of the troubles she faced growing up, which she addresses so nicely in this graphic novel. All these themes of ethnicity, culture, race, the idea that YOU MATTER, themes that aren't being thought of enough in the world now, are explained so nicely in this. It's light enough to still enjoy the story, but stated explicitly to the point where you know it's something important. I think that's sort of a talent Kelly Yang has! Not to mention, the artwork absolutely brought this story to life, so major kudos to the illustrator on that note! Yeah, I would say any original fans of the book, like myself, will really be pleased with this, and even any newer generations who just happen to pick this up off the shelf! It is worthwhile.
June 6, 2026
A graphic novel adaptation of the popular 2018 traditional format middle grade Front Desk by Kelly Yang.
While some graphic adaptations have struggled to stay true to the heart of the traditional all text format version, having the same author for both versions and the author working closely with the illustrator ensured that this was one of the successful ventures. Mia’s story of immigrating from China and her family’s struggles to find their financial footing while also learning a new language and customs is, once again, heart-warming and encouraging. Readers will cheer at the small gains her family makes while managing a small hotel and cringe when mean-spirited Mr. Yao yanks the rug out from under them time after time. Realistic incidents of discrimination and prejudice based on the author’s own experiences are sprinkled throughout but delivered with a light touch that may allow the message to sink into readers’ hearts without coming across as angry or “preachy.” Friendships are formed across generational and racial lines and although mistakes are made, asking for and receiving forgiveness is modeled.
Highly recommended for libraries serving grades 4-7, especially those with high readership of other school based graphic novels such as works by Maria Scriven, Raina Telgemeier, Svetlana Chmakova, and Shannon Hale.
Thanks for sharing a print arc with me, Scholastic!
While some graphic adaptations have struggled to stay true to the heart of the traditional all text format version, having the same author for both versions and the author working closely with the illustrator ensured that this was one of the successful ventures. Mia’s story of immigrating from China and her family’s struggles to find their financial footing while also learning a new language and customs is, once again, heart-warming and encouraging. Readers will cheer at the small gains her family makes while managing a small hotel and cringe when mean-spirited Mr. Yao yanks the rug out from under them time after time. Realistic incidents of discrimination and prejudice based on the author’s own experiences are sprinkled throughout but delivered with a light touch that may allow the message to sink into readers’ hearts without coming across as angry or “preachy.” Friendships are formed across generational and racial lines and although mistakes are made, asking for and receiving forgiveness is modeled.
Highly recommended for libraries serving grades 4-7, especially those with high readership of other school based graphic novels such as works by Maria Scriven, Raina Telgemeier, Svetlana Chmakova, and Shannon Hale.
Thanks for sharing a print arc with me, Scholastic!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Front Desk: The Graphic Novel by Kelly Yang is about a young girl who moves with her parents to manage a motel.
Ten-year-old Mia and her immigrant parents manage the Calivista Motel and tend to its guests. Mia and her family help other immigrants by letting them stay in the empty rooms for free, but if the owner, Mr. Yao, catches them, they could be in a lot of trouble.
Mia’s mom wants her to focus on math, but Mia dreams of becoming a writer, even though English is not her native language. Mia is trying very hard to get through the year, but after a few unexpected curveballs are thrown her way, will she be able to survive the year and pursue her dreams?
The graphic novel was a cute read. It was easy to follow and understand. It shows some of the challenges that many immigrants face when entering a new country without many options. It teaches young readers about discrimination, prejudice, fighting for what you believe in, and having hope in a heartwarming and easy-to-digest way. I would be open to reading more graphic novels by the author.
Ten-year-old Mia and her immigrant parents manage the Calivista Motel and tend to its guests. Mia and her family help other immigrants by letting them stay in the empty rooms for free, but if the owner, Mr. Yao, catches them, they could be in a lot of trouble.
Mia’s mom wants her to focus on math, but Mia dreams of becoming a writer, even though English is not her native language. Mia is trying very hard to get through the year, but after a few unexpected curveballs are thrown her way, will she be able to survive the year and pursue her dreams?
The graphic novel was a cute read. It was easy to follow and understand. It shows some of the challenges that many immigrants face when entering a new country without many options. It teaches young readers about discrimination, prejudice, fighting for what you believe in, and having hope in a heartwarming and easy-to-digest way. I would be open to reading more graphic novels by the author.
Review of advance copy received from Shelf Awareness Pro
I never got around the reading the novel of this (although it's still on my list, so I was intrigued when this ARC showed up in my mailbox. I debated whether to read the book first, so I could contrast it with the graphic novel, but the book has a waiting list at my library, so I decided to skip it for now.
Since this is an ARC I only got a few panels with color, and only about half the book was shaded. However, the story was good, and I saw enough of the artwork to know that I liked it enough. I'm not normally a fan of art that looks more manga than anything else, but this one wasn't bad, and the characters had facial expressions that made sense to the scene. (Which I can't say for most manga art.)
I'm excited to read the book now, and was please to receive this (mostly finished) graphic novel.
Since this is an ARC I only got a few panels with color, and only about half the book was shaded. However, the story was good, and I saw enough of the artwork to know that I liked it enough. I'm not normally a fan of art that looks more manga than anything else, but this one wasn't bad, and the characters had facial expressions that made sense to the scene. (Which I can't say for most manga art.)
I'm excited to read the book now, and was please to receive this (mostly finished) graphic novel.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I lovvvvvved reading Front Desk when it was first released, and I’ve seen so many kids absolutely cherish that book. I know student students who have flown through this series and then started reading it all over again because they love it so much.
It was super hesitant when I got the advanced copy of the graphic novel because the original novel is so special itself, but in this case, somehow I think the graphic novel even enhances the story more. I read it cover to cover and was smiling the entire time. I absolutely love this story, and after I post this review, I will immediately pre-order the graphic novel for our libraries so our readers who like all formats of books will now get to experience Mia Tang’s story.
It was super hesitant when I got the advanced copy of the graphic novel because the original novel is so special itself, but in this case, somehow I think the graphic novel even enhances the story more. I read it cover to cover and was smiling the entire time. I absolutely love this story, and after I post this review, I will immediately pre-order the graphic novel for our libraries so our readers who like all formats of books will now get to experience Mia Tang’s story.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
So much heart in such a small package!
Ten-year-old Mia lives in the hotel that her immigrant parents manage. While they are busy turning over rooms, she helps guests at the front desk.
Mia is constantly faced with the challenges of the poverty-level wages her parents earn, systemic racism, not having cool jeans, and homework. But she also sees the beauty of her neighbors' friendship, the good her parents do for other immigrants while managing their own struggles, and finds small ways she, too, can help others.
Charming and deeply impactful- this should be required reading for people of all ages.
Thank you to Graphix for the advance reader copy I received as a bookseller. All opinions are my own.
Ten-year-old Mia lives in the hotel that her immigrant parents manage. While they are busy turning over rooms, she helps guests at the front desk.
Mia is constantly faced with the challenges of the poverty-level wages her parents earn, systemic racism, not having cool jeans, and homework. But she also sees the beauty of her neighbors' friendship, the good her parents do for other immigrants while managing their own struggles, and finds small ways she, too, can help others.
Charming and deeply impactful- this should be required reading for people of all ages.
Thank you to Graphix for the advance reader copy I received as a bookseller. All opinions are my own.
November 8, 2026
My youngest daughter was assigned the fourth book in this series as a summer reading assignment. We read the book together, but didn’t really feel like we were getting the full picture because we hadn’t read the first books in the series.. When I found out that they were adapting the first book as a graphic novel, I pre-ordered the book immediately, wanting to learn the full story. By the end of this graphic novel, I was in tears, learning about the plight of Chinese immigrants in California during the 90s as told by someone that experienced it. It is easy for people to hate or fear immigrants when we do not know or understand their story by turning them into “the other." We are not so different and there is no reason why we can’t all be friends. Everyone should read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This adaptation in graphic-novel format winningly introduces the intrepid Mia Tang and her supremely relatable family and friends (with their hard-knock-life struggles and triumphs in rapid succession, big and small) to a new wave of readers, in seamlessly-matched story and illustration. Ms. Yang’s semiautobiographical adventure, embodied by enterprising (and improvising) Taiwan-born fifth-grader Mia and her hard-working but hardscrabbled mom and dad as they pursue their piece of the American pie despite dead-end motel management jobs under a ruthless and unscrupulous boss, is especially pertinent for young readers today to absorb as they witness the woeful immigrant-bashing so many of their elders in America espouse in these 2020’s. By turns funny, infuriating, thrilling, thought-provoking, and downright heartwarming, this book hits all the right middle-grade notes, and is teacher-approved, to boot.
Review of advance copy
Ten year old Mia Tang runs the front desk of a California motel while her immigrant parents clean rooms. She's also secretly helping her parents hide other immigrants from the mean hotel owner, and dreams of becoming a writer. This was a easy 5/5 for me. Such a heartfelt story, I even teared up a few times! Mia is incredibly easy to root for, and it's based on the author Kelly Yang's own childhood, so the hardships feel real and never watered down. Fumio Oata's art brings the motel and its guests to life so well! This is a great pick for middle grade readers, whether they're new to the story or already love the chapter book series!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I always worry when they take a novel and turn it into a graphic novel if it will be successful. Kelly Yang and Fumio Obata were very very successful. I loved Front Desk when I read it a decade ago and I love the graphic novel now. Between the illustrations and the coloring, the illustrator has managed to keep everything that I loved about the original novel. This is a fantastic translation that kids will love and hopefully getting them to read the next three novels in the series.
October 29, 2026
Front Desk: The Graphic Novel by Kelly Yang & Fumio Obata
Reading history:
Normally I keep this in my private notes section, but I'm moving it. Yay!
Reading history was not added on Goodreads, but was instead kept on a small piece of paper with the book.
Started October 28th, 2026.
Finished October 28th, 2026.
Page numbers refer to hardcover hardcover first edition.
October 28th, 2026: read entire book in physical copy.
Reading history:
Normally I keep this in my private notes section, but I'm moving it. Yay!
Reading history was not added on Goodreads, but was instead kept on a small piece of paper with the book.
Started October 28th, 2026.
Finished October 28th, 2026.
Page numbers refer to hardcover hardcover first edition.
October 28th, 2026: read entire book in physical copy.
November 5, 2026
I read a uncorrected proof, so there was only a little bit of color; the full color version is definitely better. However, for the sake of this review, I will pretend like it was in color.
it was alright. i think it would have been better if it was longer, and more of the details were included, the ones that make the Front Desk series so good. if i hadn't read the novel version, i would be lost with parts of the plot. it wasn't bad though, just kind of a meh read.
it was alright. i think it would have been better if it was longer, and more of the details were included, the ones that make the Front Desk series so good. if i hadn't read the novel version, i would be lost with parts of the plot. it wasn't bad though, just kind of a meh read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I haven’t read the series this graphic novel is based on so I had no idea what to expect. The story is engaging, well-written, and inspiring. The reader sees a great look into the life of an immigrant and what they face while still being kid appropriate. I felt for the characters in the story. The artwork was amazing.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
This was a perfectly fine graphic novel adaptation that stays true to the original. Since I have eight copies of the novel because it was a Battle of the Books title, I don't think I will buy this version, even though Follett does have a prebind that can be pre-ordered.
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
This was a perfectly fine graphic novel adaptation that stays true to the original. Since I have eight copies of the novel because it was a Battle of the Books title, I don't think I will buy this version, even though Follett does have a prebind that can be pre-ordered.
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
November 8, 2026
3.5 stars (I want to say I really liked it but because the novel is just so much better I can't fully commit)
It's been a bit since I read the first book in the Front Desk series. My memories of it set a high bar though that this graphic novel adaptation doesn't quite reach.
Still, I like the story and the sense of justice that Mia and her friends and family display.
It's been a bit since I read the first book in the Front Desk series. My memories of it set a high bar though that this graphic novel adaptation doesn't quite reach.
Still, I like the story and the sense of justice that Mia and her friends and family display.
November 8, 2026
Absolutely fabulous graphic novel version of the award winning Front Desk. It reminded me why I enjoyed the novel so much. Thank you for turning this novel into to a graphic novel, making it accessible to so many more readers. I look forward to more graphic novel versions of the books in this series.
November 10, 2026
This is one of my favourite series, so I was so excited when the graphic novel was announced. The book did not disappoint. It kept all the essential, important parts of the book but gave a new twist with the graphic novel. The novel will always have my heart but this is a good addition to the series.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
True to the prose version, this graphic novel format is going to bring Mia’s story to a whole new audience of readers. I’m excited to see the final, full color version when it publishes in October. Not sure if the other books in the series will follow with this format, but I sure hope so!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have re-fallen in love with Mia Tang. I've followed Mia's growth through the entire series, but this graphic novel, just reinforced why I love this series to begin with. The drawings just brought the story to life in a different way. This will delight both old and new fans of Kelly Yang!
Review of advance copy
It’s been a while since I spent time with Mia and her family and the cast of characters from the Calivista Motel. This graphic novel scratches that itch and reminds me just how good the original novel is.
November 14, 2026
I feel like a food for not having read Front Desk. I guess the basic premise sounded depressing to me - young girl has to help parents get exploited running a motel - but having read it, I understand the story is both empowering and exciting. I'll have to pick up the novels and get to work!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This was so good! I've read the book that this graphic novel is based on and this is a very faithful adaptation. I loved seeing all the characters brought to life.
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March 17, 2026Thanks to Edelweiss for the DRC. 4.75 stars
This was as good as the novel the first time and will find a whole new set of readers as a graphic novel as well!
This was as good as the novel the first time and will find a whole new set of readers as a graphic novel as well!
June 26, 2026
5 stars
Review to come
Review to come
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
EARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
This version is just as good as the original one, and I am glad it will reach an even larger range of readers!
This version is just as good as the original one, and I am glad it will reach an even larger range of readers!
October 27, 2026
I liked the graphic novel enough that now I want to read the original book! (Which is literally what I wish my students would do too...)
November 2, 2026
I’ve heard about this book for a long time. It was just as wonderful and devastating as I thought it would be.
Fun fact: I thought this was always a graphic novel and then realized it was a book.
Fun fact: I thought this was always a graphic novel and then realized it was a book.
November 3, 2026
I LOVE this book! It would be a perfect 5, but the art isn't great.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews