The Vacation: A Teenage Migrant Farmworker’s Experience Picking Cherries in Michigan

by Robert “Carlos” Fuentes, Kristen Wasil (Illustrator)

The A Teenage Migrant Farmworker’s Experience Picking Cherries in Michigan is a coming-of-age story that intertwines the bonds of family and friends, emphasizes the importance of heritage, captures the sweetness of first love, and showcases the quiet dignity of hard work.
As Bob learns to navigate the crossroads between his past and an uncertain future, he discovers the true value of family, friendship, identity, taking risks, and dreams that extend beyond the orchard. It is ideal for young adult readers and adults alike.

277 pages, Paperback

Published May 27, 2025

Reviews

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book caught my attention in the new book section of the library so I took it home to read. A thoughtful and honest memoir of his time in Cherryland picking cherries and being part of a group of Hispanics working together in the cherry orchards of Traverse City when cherries were still picked by hand. His family is of an Assembly of God denomination and his father preaches and they have services on Sunday. He as a teen is aware of the differences of Whites and Hispanics and of his own wishes for his future. He captures his life as a teen between childhood and a grown man so well.

[Marlene · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Teenage Migrant Farmworker’s Experience Picking Cherries in Michigan is a coming-of-age story that intertwines the bonds of family and friends, emphasizes the importance of heritage, captures the sweetness of first love, and showcases the quiet dignity of hard work.
As Bob learns to navigate the crossroads between his past and an uncertain future, he discovers the true value of family, friendship, identity, taking risks, and dreams that extend beyond the orchard. It is ideal for young adult readers and adults alike.

[Colleen Anne Rybak · Rating 2 out of 5]

Seems definitely like the author just published his teen journal entries. While I liked the overall story, it is dragged down by a teens personal writing style. It may have been improved with some adult reflection weaved in.

[NonFiction 24/7 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun book that takes you back to being a kid no matter your age. I liked it because it was about a topic that you don't get many books about.

[Trisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book tells of the author’s experiences working one summer picking cherries in TC. While the writing is plain, it does give an accurate portrait of that time period.