The Fig Factor: A Memoir about Growth, Inspiration, and Second Chances by Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I was drawn to this little memoir partly because of its title, partly because I have a passing acquaintance with the author, and partly because it took me back to other cherished friends in the Spanish-speaking world, amigos that I dearly miss.

That disclaimer aside, let me say that even if I didn’t know Jackie Ruiz, I’d happily give The Fig Factor five stars, only because I can’t give it eight. Seldom have I read a memoir that tugs at the heartstrings like this one does, and seldom have the rewards for persistence, faith, and resilience been so clearly rewarded and conveyed. It has the added feature of being very well written.

No spoilers here, but the vector Ms Camacho-Ruiz has taken was nothing short of amazing, and considering where she has landed, and how she’s thriving is a remarkable thing to see. As for the mysterious title, suffice to say that figs played an important part in the author’s first entrepreneurial effort, and ‘Fig Factors’ still guide her efforts to this day. The book gave me a new appreciation for strong women, the value of family, the role of universal beneficence in our lives, and the goodness available to all, if we seek it out.

Political cant aside, her story also affirms for me the shallow thinking, and the ill-considered efforts of certain people to block entry to immigrants to this country. From Mexico City, to a tiny pueblo called Malpaso, to the U.S. and Chicago, to success, despite several challenges, speed-bumps, health concerns, and family crises, Ms Ruiz triumphs, and then some.

If you enjoy a good, satisfying, and inspirational memoir, read this little book, and you’ll give it eight stars, too.The Fig Factor: A Memoir about Growth, Inspiration, and Second Chances




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