Francisco Jimenez
Francisco narrates his firsthand experience as a migrant child. He's devoted to his family, willing to do anything to help them succeed as a unit. He is especially fond of his younger siblings whom he looks after with a passion. Despite the constant moves, he eventually develops successful habits in school because he is determined to learn and keeps himself organized. He doesn't complain about needing to work instead of attending school, but everyone knows where his heart really lies. In small ways like taking care of his notebook and penny collection, he demonstrates his commitment to order and progress. He's a real driving force for his family when they often lack hope or joy.
Mama
She is the glue of the Jimenez family. The very definition of a hard worker, she cares for her six children (through multiple pregnancies) and cooks for all the migrant workers in camp aside from working all day long in the fields. She truly sacrifices herself for her family. As Francisco discovers, she's seen enough of life to become wise. She's always available to offer some valuable advice or to cheer him up when he needs it.
Papa
This rather reserved head of the household is the family's guiding force. He rules his family from a distance, unwilling to sacrifice his completely necessary position of power for comfort. Due to the immense stress of his responsibilities, Papa often snaps and behaves gruffly. He just doesn't have a lot of extra energy for kindness. By the end of the book, he is unable to work because of back pain. This is emotionally and physically crippling for him.
Robert Jimenez
Roberto is the oldest child. As Francisco's senior, he tries to provide the steady motivation and counsel which his stressed father is unable to give Francisco. He attends school when he can, but he feels the weight of his position as oldest and prefers to work.
Trampita Jimenez
He's born in California. A young child throughout the text, Trampita doesn't feature too prominently in the story. Francisco is responsible for watching him for some time while his family works, which he resents.
Torito Jimenez
When Torito is a baby, he becomes sick. He nearly dies from malnutrition and whatever other illness is affecting him since his family can't afford a doctor. By some miracle he recovers and grows into a healthy, happy little kid.
Rorra Jimenez
She's the baby of the family. When she is five or six-years-old, she takes Francisco's penny collection to buy gumballs. She's just a child, but Francisco loses his mind over the offense. Rorra is pretty sensitive, so she sticks to her own company for a while after that.
Ruben Jimenez
Ruben isn't given much description. He's the second youngest Jimenez.
Mr. Lema
He takes mercy on Francisco because of his difficult situation. Although he only has a short amount of time to spend with the boy, he becomes a profound influence on Francisco's education. He helps him polish off his English and adamantly encourages him to devote himself to school when he can. The extra attention he gives Francisco helps the boy form a determination to keep studying even when circumstances try to prevent it.
