YA Book: "The Circuit," blog by Adriana Rodriguez

The Circuit, told my the very own author, Francisco Jimenez, is the story of a boy and his family who immigrate from Tlaquepaque, Mexico, into the United States in hopes of a better life in the United States. At the age of four, Francisco also known as “Panchito,” arrives to the United States in the 1940’s.  

This story is about the life of Francisco and his family, who work and toil the fields of California. His family works from dawn to sundown, day in and day out. They work in inhumane and unjust conditions with meager pay. The story of Francisco and his family perfectly depicts the true story of migrant farm workers and the reality of what they go through in search of better opportunities and a better life in the United States.

Life is absolutely not easy for Francisco’s family. His true story is heartbreaking and truly woeful. This also includes his experience as a newcomer in school and was forbidden to speak his native language, Spanish; if he spoke Spanish he was reprimanded in school. He feared being heard in the only language he knew.

But, with the love and support of his family and their strong bond and commitment to succeed and triumph, they survive working the fields despite all of the adversity they face. It is a miracle how they survive “the circuit.” This book is a must read for young adults. It hits home for many immigrant families and students whose parents work the agricultural fields and who have experienced this way of life. Not only is this an amazing read for all, but this book has also won numerous awards, which includes the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, Jane Addams Children’s Book Award, and the Americas Award, amongst many others.