Taking Hold: From Migrant Childhood to Columbia University

Taking Hold is Francisco Jiménez's memoir chronicling his college years at Santa Clara University and graduate studies at Columbia University in the 1960s. The book details his transition from life as a Mexican migrant farmworker to pursuing higher education on both U.S. coasts. Jiménez recounts his experiences navigating academic challenges while supporting his family and maintaining connections to his cultural roots. The narrative follows his path through undergraduate studies in California, marriage to his wife Laura, and their eventual move to New York City for his graduate program. This memoir documents the realities of straddling multiple worlds - academia, family obligations, and the immigrant experience in America. The geographical and cultural contrasts between Jiménez's past life in the fields of California and his present life in East Coast academia form the backbone of his story. Through his personal journey, Jiménez examines themes of perseverance, family bonds, and the transformative power of education. His account stands as a testament to first-generation students and immigrants seeking to build new opportunities while honoring their origins.

Readers describe this memoir as inspirational while remaining grounded and honest about the challenges of navigating academia as a first-generation student. The book resonates with immigrants, students, and educators. What readers liked: - Clear, straightforward writing style - Details about overcoming financial hardships and cultural barriers - Insights into graduate school experiences - Connection to previous books in the series - Role of mentors and family support What readers disliked: - Some found the pacing uneven - Wanted more depth about personal relationships - Less engaging than earlier books in the series Ratings: Goodreads: 4.26/5 (127 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (47 ratings) Notable reader comments: "Shows the reality of pursuing education while supporting family" -Goodreads review "Helpful for first-gen students to see themselves represented" -Amazon review "The academic focus overshadows personal elements" -Goodreads review

Always Running by Luis J. Rodriguez This memoir chronicles a young Latino's journey from gang life in East Los Angeles to becoming a writer and activist through education and determination.

Breaking Through by Francisco Jiménez The predecessor to Taking Hold follows the author through his high school years as he balances farm work, family obligations, and academic pursuits.

A Place to Stand by Jimmy Santiago Baca A New Mexican poet's account transforms from illiteracy and imprisonment to discovering literature and finding his voice through education.

Barefoot Heart by Elva Treviño Hart The daughter of Mexican migrant workers details her path from Texas cotton fields to graduating from Stanford University.

The Distance Between Us by Reyna Grande A Mexican-born author recounts her transition from poverty and family separation to crossing borders and pursuing higher education in America.

📚 Francisco Jiménez and his family came to the United States from Mexico when he was 4 years old, crossing the border in the trunk of a car. 🎓 Despite not speaking English when he started school and working in the fields throughout his childhood, Jiménez went on to earn his Ph.D. from Columbia University and became a professor at Santa Clara University. 📖 "Taking Hold" is the fourth book in Jiménez's award-winning memoir series, following "The Circuit," "Breaking Through," and "Reaching Out." 🌟 The author's story has inspired countless readers and earned him multiple honors, including the John Steinbeck Award and the Fred Steinbeck Award for his contributions to literature and social justice. 🗽 The book chronicles Jiménez's graduate school years at Columbia University in New York City during the turbulent 1960s, highlighting his culture shock moving from California to Manhattan and his struggle to balance academic life with family responsibilities.