A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

Author: Betty Smith
Copyright: 1943
Rating:excellent
Number of pages:475
Reviewed by: Francine

In A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith, written in 1943, Francie Nolan, an 11- year- old girl in 1912, lives in a poor family in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Francie hasn’t had the easiest life. Her father, Johnny Nolan, is an alcoholic, but he is loving and caring towards her and her brother, Neeley. On a typical Saturday, Neeley and Francie collect junk to trade for extra pennies. Katie Nolan, Francie’s mom, has always loved Neeley more than Francie and has hated herself for it. Although she tries to hide it, both she and Francie know who she loves more. In conclusion, Francie has been living a difficult life in Brooklyn.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn was an excellent classic book. It had all the great qualities of a memorable book; it was moving, joyful and interesting. In my opinion, the fictitious story of Francie kept my interest and made me want to keep reading to find out what would happen next. The book included family adventures - some were positive and some were negative. As a result, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith is recommended to anyone above the age of 11.