There are things ten-year-old Mia Tang knows that she can’t tell anyone.
Number 1: She lives in a motel, not a big house like some of her friends. Every day, while her immigrant parents clean the rooms, 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 that her parents have 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 dare to dream of being an author 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?
BL 4.5
9 Points
Number 1: She lives in a motel, not a big house like some of her friends. Every day, while her immigrant parents clean the rooms, 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 that her parents have 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 dare to dream of being an author 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?
BL 4.5
9 Points
Activity 1: What policies does your school have in place regarding racism and prejudice? Can you add to or improve these policies? What should you do if you witness a student or teacher demonstrating racist or prejudiced behavior?
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Activity 2: Interview a family member or friend who immigrated to your country. Keep in mind that reasons for immigration can sometimes be sensitive or difficult for the person to talk about, so remember to be respectful. Ask your interviewee why he/she immigrated, what changed for the better or worse, did he/she learn a new language, and other questions about their experience as an immigrant.
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Activity 3:In Chapter 35 Mia makes a list of American phrases and customs. Write a similar list for your country or local area that might help someone understand the local language or slang for the first time
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