51 pages • 1 hour read
Maizy Chen's Last Chance
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Book Brief
276
Novel • Fiction
Last Chance, Minnesota • Contemporary
2022
Middle grade
8-12 years
670L
Super Short Summary
In Maizy Chen's Last Chance by Lisa Yee, 12-year-old Maizy Chen visits her grandparents in Last Chance, Minnesota, where she learns about her Chinese heritage and the struggles faced by her ancestors. Through the summer, Maizy uncovers family stories involving courage and kindness amidst racism and xenophobia, all while solving a mystery at her grandparents' Chinese restaurant, Golden Palace. This source material contains instances of racism, discrimination, and racist language, including the use of the c-word racial slur.
Emotional
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
Inspirational
Humorous
Reviews & Readership
4,777 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Maizy Chen's Last Chance by Lisa Yee receives praise for its heartfelt story, relatable characters, and exploration of cultural heritage. Reviewers appreciate the well-crafted narrative and emotional depth. Some critique its pacing and predictability. Despite minor flaws, it’s lauded as a moving and educational read suitable for middle-grade audiences.
Who Should Read Maizy Chen's Last Chance?
Readers who enjoy Maizy Chen's Last Chance by Lisa Yee are typically middle-grade enthusiasts who appreciate heartfelt, family-focused stories with cultural insights. Fans of Front Desk by Kelly Yang and Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai will find this book appealing.
4,777 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Opa
Opa
Opa is Maizy’s grandfather, who is keen on passing down family stories to Maizy as his health declines. His tales connect Maizy to her cultural history and highlight important family values.
Oma
Oma
Oma is Maizy’s grandmother, who has a complex but loving relationship with Maizy’s mother. Her emphasis on family and sacrifice teaches Maizy about the strength of their heritage.
Lucky Chen
Lucky Chen
Lucky Chen is Maizy's great-great-grandfather, whose life story is shared with Maizy through her grandfather's accounts. His experiences reflect the challenges and resilience of Chinese immigrants in America.
276
Novel • Fiction
Last Chance, Minnesota • Contemporary
2022
Middle grade
8-12 years
670L
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