Fragile Courage Revisits College Belonging
Fragile Courage by Martha Casazza examines college belonging, family ties and support as students begin a new academic year.
By Academic Writing Club Newsroom
Fragile Courage, Martha Casazza’s 2021 novel, returns to the college experience through the story of a Mexican American student balancing higher education and family ties. A September report from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center found that second-year college persistence improved across high school income groups. The report also found a 14.6 percentage point gap between graduates of high poverty and low poverty high schools. Casazza’s novel focuses on the support students may need after they arrive on campus.
Two Students In College
Melina leaves her close knit Mexican American family to pursue a degree and a wider future. Margot, an academic with different expectations, faces pressures of her own. Their uneasy connection gives both students space to examine identity, ambition and the support needed to grow.
Experience In Educational Access
Casazza began her career in Chicago Public Schools and trained teachers at National Louis University. As a Fulbright Scholar after apartheid, she worked with South African university faculty serving students from townships. She also helped develop a college level program for Spanish speaking residents in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood.
Martha Casazza, educator and author, said:
“Through my work, I've gained a unique perspective on the various ways people learn and find their place in the world. I'm passionate about exploring the transformative power of education and the importance of ensuring people have the access and support they need to learn and thrive.”
A Story About Staying Connected
The novel puts family relationships alongside questions of college access and persistence. Its focus on Melina’s transition offers students, families and educators a story about the personal side of remaining in college.
