Front Desk

Every once in awhile I come across a book I think every American should read (i.e. Wonder) and Front Desk is another. I think young readers would be greatly surprised to read about Mia and her life. She and her parents run a motel owned by a tyrant. They work all hours of the day for almost no pay. Mia does get to attend school, but in a richer area. Her clothing is not “right” and her free school lunch is most likely the most nutritious meal she gets each day.
Mia is a bit of a Pollyanna. Except for one small mention of an incident with a pair of jeans, Mia never complains about how hard her life is or how little she owns. In fact, being a champion for those who are down on their luck becomes her hobby. She wants to single-handedly pull her parents out of poverty and herself off the roller coaster (of the rich stay rich and the poor stay poor). She has a great friend in Lupe, who is going through something similar, but dealing with her own issues.
Did I mention this kid is just 10 years old?
Front Desk tackles some mature themes (racism, poverty) with great examples and a discussion of feelings. It would make a hell of a book club read.