In the book "Front Desk," Mia has several notable personality traits, including resilience, empathy, and resourcefulness.
Firstly, Mia demonstrates resilience throughout the story. Despite the many challenges she and her family face, including dealing with a difficult boss and facing discrimination, Mia continues to push forward with her dreams. For example, when she encounters a setback in her writing ambitions, such as being discouraged by her teacher, Mia doesn’t give up; instead, she perseveres and continues writing in her journal, stating, "I will find my voice and my stories." This determination showcases her resilience as she learns to navigate obstacles rather than allowing them to defeat her.
Secondly, Mia exhibits strong empathy towards others, which is evident in her interactions with the guests at the motel and her friends. When she learns of a family who is struggling to pay their rent, she empathizes with their situation and tries to help by offering them food and support. In the text, Mia thinks, "I know what it’s like to feel safe and then to lose it," reflecting her understanding of their plight. This empathy reveals her ability to connect with others on a deeper level, demonstrating kindness and compassion.
Lastly, Mia shows remarkable resourcefulness throughout her experiences. When faced with problems, she often finds creative solutions. For instance, when the motel is in danger of being shut down, Mia comes up with the idea to create a type of "business plan" to present to her parents, demonstrating her ability to think critically about their situation. She suggests, "What if we start a newsletter to let everyone know about our motel specials?" This initiative highlights Mia’s resourcefulness and her proactive approach to solving problems, reflecting her ability to adapt and think on her feet.
Overall, Mia's resilience, empathy, and resourcefulness greatly define her character in "Front Desk," as shown through her thoughts, words, and actions throughout the narrative.