40 pages • 1 hour read
A Place to Stand
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Book Brief
272
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New Mexico • Mid-20th Century
2001
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
A Place to Stand by Jimmy Santiago Baca details his challenging journey from a troubled childhood with an abusive father and an absent mother, to time in prison where he discovers his talent for writing. After running away from an orphanage, Baca's life involves crime and incarceration, but he ultimately educates himself in prison and becomes a poet.
Gritty
Inspirational
Emotional
Contemplative
Dark
Reviews & Readership
3,290 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jimmy Santiago Baca's A Place to Stand is widely praised for its raw and poignant portrayal of his journey from a troubled youth to a celebrated poet. Critics highlight his powerful narrative and emotional depth. However, some feel the graphic depictions of violence and hardship may be overwhelming. Overall, it's seen as an inspiring and honest memoir about redemption through self-expression.
Who Should Read A Place to Stand?
A reader who would enjoy A Place to Stand is someone captivated by narratives of personal transformation, overcoming adversity, and the profound impact of literature. Comparable to fans of The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls or Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl, they seek inspiring true stories that delve into the resilience of the human spirit.
3,290 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Cecilia Baca
Cecilia Baca
The mother of Jimmy, Mieyo, and Martina, whose decision to leave her troubled marriage and hide her heritage significantly impacts her children's lives.
Damacio Baca
Damacio Baca
Jimmy's father, whose struggles with violence and alcoholism contribute to the family's instability and separation.
Mieyo Baca
Mieyo Baca
Jimmy’s older brother, characterized by his protective nature, hard work, and personal challenges following family tragedies.
Martina Baca
Martina Baca
The younger sister of Jimmy and Mieyo, who remains with family to care for her grandmother and attempts to support her brother during difficult times.
272
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New Mexico • Mid-20th Century
2001
Adult
18+ years
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