43 pages • 1 hour read
Kelly Yang, Illustr. Maike PlenzkeThree Keys
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
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.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read Three Keys?
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.