Front Desk received starred reviews from the School Library Journal and Kirkus Reviews. Katya Schapiro, who reviewed for the SLJ, commented on the "light, positive tone" Yang maintains in the book about the heavy themes, as well as the "satisfying dose of wish fulfillment that closes the story". Schapiro praised Mia's character, calling her "an irresistible protagonist," and said "many young readers will see themselves in Mia and her friends." Kirkus Reviews called the main character "a feisty and empowered heroine", and also praised the supporting characters that help "reveal life in America in the 1990s for persons of color and those living in poverty."
