Author Kelly Yang aims to address multiple social issues in a way that is accessible for middle grade readers. The young characters in this book face serious problems related to racism, sexism, xenophobia, consent, and gentrification. The book’s child characters experience clear manifestations of each issue, allowing target readers a safe way to explore their own reactions (and possible alternative reactions) to such events.

Regarding racism, Yang writes examples of common micro- and macro-aggressions in both settings for the book (the United States and China). The incident with the photographer demonstrates how adult figures in public education can easily make a school environment feel unsafe. The child cousins in China wanting to touch Hank’s hair reflects a common experience among Black people. Readers grasp the harm of these actions because they are experiencing them through Mia’s eyes, and Mia knows it’s wrong.

In regards to sexism, the author presents a love triangle between Jason, Mia, and Da-Shawn, which hints at what a controlling and abusive partner can look like. Jason is at times jealous, emotionally manipulative, and quick to blame Mia for how he feels instead of taking responsibility for his own actions.