In Three Keys by Kelly Yang, 11-year-old Mia Tang navigates running a motel with her immigrant family in Anaheim, California, amid the backdrop of the contentious Proposition 187. As Mia and her best friend Lupe grapple with the implications of this proposition on their undocumented status, Mia’s father is detained for deportation, prompting Mia to harness her writing skills to advocate for her friend and influence public opinion. Through themes of friendship, persistence, and the power of the pen, Mia fights for justice while also supporting Jason Yao’s culinary dreams, culminating in a victory for all three friends.

Three Keys by Kelly Yang and illustrated by Maike Plenzke continues the heartfelt story of Mia Tang, praised for addressing serious social issues through a young protagonist's eyes. Reviewers commend its empathy and relatability, though some feel it handles complex topics simplistically. Overall, it’s considered a strong, engaging sequel that inspires and educates young readers.

Readers who enjoyed Front Desk by Kelly Yang or Wonder by R.J. Palacio will love Three Keys. Ideal for middle-grade readers who appreciate stories of resilience, friendship, and social justice, it continues Mia Tang’s journey, addressing immigration issues with heart and humor, paired with vibrant illustrations by Maike Plenzke.

Inspirational / Heartwarming / Challenging / Hopeful / Emotional

**Mia Tang**  
A determined 11-year-old Chinese immigrant living in California who helps her parents manage a motel and aspires to be a writer. She is resourceful and takes on challenges to help her family and friends.

**Lupe Garcia**  
Mia’s best friend and classmate, also 11 years old, who is talented in math and dreams of becoming an artist. She faces struggles related to her family's undocumented status.

**Jason Yao**  
An 11-year-old Chinese immigrant and son of the motel's former owner, who has a passion for cooking. He navigates complex friendships with Mia and Lupe.

**Hank Caleb**  
A long-term tenant at the motel who becomes the marketing director, offering advice and perspective to Mia as she faces various challenges.

**Mrs. Welch**  
The strict sixth-grade teacher of Mia and Lupe who helps Mia improve her writing and gradually shifts her views on immigrants.

**Mr. and Mrs. Tang**  
Mia’s parents, former scientists in China, who now own and run the motel while striving to improve their financial situation and adapt to their new life.

**Mr. and Mrs. Yao**  
Wealthy Chinese immigrants and parents of Jason, who initially look down on the Tangs but experience changes in fortune and perspective.

**Mr. and Mrs. Garcia**  
Lupe’s parents, Mexican immigrants living in the U.S. without authorization, who face challenges with immigration-related issues during the story.

Study Guide

Book Brief

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Book Brief Three Keys

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Overview

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Three Keys Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-11

Three Keys Chapters 1-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-26

Three Keys Chapters 12-26 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 27-43

Three Keys Chapters 27-43 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 44-62

Three Keys Chapters 44-62 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Three Keys Character Analysis

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Themes

Three Keys Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Three Keys Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Three Keys Essay Topics

 Kelly Yang

Illustr. Maike Plenzke

Middle grade

Novel

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Three Keys

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