Breaking Through Flashcards Summary

Chapter Summaries

• Forced Out: The Jiménez family faced deportation to Mexico. Papá planned to send Francisco and Roberto to California for work and education, with hopes of family reunification.

• Home Alone: Mary O'Neill introduced Francisco and Roberto to dining out, an experience they had never had before.

• Stepping Out: Francisco befriended Peggy, but their relationship ended when her parents discovered his Mexican heritage.

• Together Again: The Jiménez family reunited after spending time in Mexico. Trampita suffered an accident, and Papá's back was treated by a curandera.

• Back to the Fields: In efforts to combat blight, Papá fumigated the fields; however, the chemicals harmed the strawberry crop.

• Saint Christopher Medal: Francisco graduated from El Camino Junior High, receiving a Saint Christopher medal as a graduation gift from Papá.

• Summer Skirmishes: Francisco and Roberto engaged in strawberry fights during fieldwork. Papá gave Francisco an unwanted haircut with subpar clippers.

• Becoming a Saint: As Francisco started 9th grade, he expressed his aspiration to become a teacher to his counselor, Mr. Kincade, and took a typing class.

• If the Shoe Fits: After losing his shoes, Trampita and Torito found him a pair from the dump. Despite getting athlete's foot, Francisco managed to pass P.E. with a C.

• A Promotion: To aid their family's finances, Roberto sought additional employment, leading both brothers to work as janitors for Mr. Nevel.

• A Typing Machine: An old typewriter purchased from a law firm aided Francisco in practicing typing, contributing to his success in the class.

• Making Connections: Reading "The Grapes of Wrath" for extra credit sparked Francisco’s passion for reading, enhancing his vocabulary and understanding over time.

• Broken Heart: Roberto ended his relationship with Susan when her parents opposed their union due to his ethnicity. Francisco recognized a parallel with his own experience with Peggy.

• Behind the Wheel: Francisco learned to drive, initially using a worn Desoto offered by Papá after Roberto refused to let him use his car.

• Turning a Page: In 11th grade, Francisco visited a college on a field trip and discovered he could read at a college reading level.

• Los Santitos: Francisco became president of the Spanish Club, organizing a food drive for Christmas. Roberto brought home a Christmas tree, enhancing the family's holiday spirit.

• Choosing Sides: The 1960 presidential election revealed societal prejudices, prompting Francisco to embrace his Mexican identity.

• Junior Scandals: Francisco performed "Cielito Lindo" at a school event, earning applause and a standing ovation.

• Running for Office: Francisco was elected student body president, with his best friend George as treasurer, while Papá faced hospitalization due to a serious injury.

• A New Life: Roberto married Darlene and was expecting a child, leading the family to adjust workloads to compensate for his absence. Francisco struggled with the demands of school and work.

• A Test of Faith: After contracting mononucleosis, Francisco fell behind in schoolwork. Trampita assisted him during his recovery.

• A Fumble: At a Rotary Club luncheon, Francisco experienced anxiety when unexpectedly asked to speak, resulting in a nervous mix of English and Spanish.

• A Breakthrough: School counselor Mr. Penny encouraged Francisco to pursue college scholarships, while Papá resisted changes that could separate the family.

• Graduation Day: Francisco earned $1,000 in scholarships and was accepted to the University of Santa Clara, with both parents present at his graduation.

• Still Moving: As Francisco transitioned to university life, he reflected on his journey from Mexico to California, cherishing the purpose of his education.