Front Desk (Front Desk #1) (Scholastic Gold)

by Kelly Yang

- When you hear “get out of here,” do not actually get out of there. It’s just something people say when they’re surprised. - If someone says something is a “piece of cake,” it doesn’t mean they’re going to give you cake. It just means it’s easy. - Do not be alarmed when you hear the phrase “riding shotgun.” It doesn’t mean they have a gun. It means to sit next to the driver in the car. - Don’t feel insulted when you hear the word “dawg” as in “What’s up, dawg?” or “How you doing, dawg?” Dawg means “friend.” If someone is calling you a “dawg,” they are not being rude and calling you a “dog.” - If something is sweet, like “Sweet car!” it means it is good. It does not mean it literally tastes sweet. - Similarly, if something is “sick,” as in “Sick bike!” it also means good. I know it’s a little confusing. - The word “dude” is a slang term for a male friend. It should not be used when addressing the police, your boss, a senior citizen, or a female. - Do not stick your middle finger up for any reason in America because the middle finger is considered offensive. Use your index finger or pinkie instead to scratch your face. - Don’t take your shoes off everywhere. Americans like to wear their shoes inside the house. - Do not comment on how someone’s appearance has changed. I know it’s a compliment in China to say, “You look like you’ve gained weight!” but trust me, Americans do not like it.