A Tree Grows in Brooklyn [75th Anniversary Ed] (Perennial Classics)

I was seriously deprived as an adolescent. I never even heard of Betty Smith's classic novel "A Tree Grows In Brooklyn," let alone read it. And I was an avid reader who lived relatively close to Brooklyn. Whatever the reason for this significant omission in my early literary development, I remedied the situation recently, (yes, it took me a while). I can only echo here what millions of other readers have said since the book's publication in 1943, this is an extraordinary novel which enriches and delights. I can understand why The New York Public Library chose it as one of the "Books of the Century."Ms. Smith grew up in Brooklyn and drew from her own experiences to portray the hardships of the Nolans, a tenement family living in that borough's Williamsburg slums during the early part of the 20th century. Teenage Francie Nolan is an avid reader who wants to become a writer. She adores her father John, an alcoholic with a multitude of pipe dreams. He, in turn, loves his children and tries to be a good father, but he is not able to carry out his responsibilities. Nolan has become a dissipated man due to his alcohol addiction. Francie believes in him regardless, (and she's the only one), because they're soul-mates. Although it seems contradictory, the girl also possesses a strong practical streak. Her mother, Katie, abandoned all illusions for a better life long ago. She is rendered almost emotionless by a surfeit of her husband's grand schemes. However she stresses to her children that education is the only path out of the tenements. Grandma Rommely, Katie's mother, also reinforces the importance of education.There is a single ordinary tree visible from the Nolan's tenement window. It grows doggedly through the cement, in spite of harsh conditions which thwart it's development. Yet, it perseveres. For Francie and her father the tree symbolizes hope - the blossoming of life against all odds. It is like a beacon of of light in the darkness of their daily lives. Francie has the tenacity of that tree, and remains steadfast to her dreams. Unlike her father, she has the inner strength and resourcefulness to make them come true.The author poignantly depicts the Nolan's struggles to survive and grow in a world of poverty, hunger, class prejudice and tremendous loss. Francie, a courageous girl, of strong character, comes of age here under extremely difficult circumstances. The portrait of her family members and her relationship with them is beautifully drawn, especially her relationship with her brother Neely. And turn-of-the-century Williamsburg is brought vividly to life. Broader topics are also introduced which enhance the narrative tremendously, such as, WWI, immigration, and politics of the period. Smith's characters are strong and well developed. She uses flashbacks to tell the fascinating story of John Nolan's courtship of Katie, their marriage and early years together."A Tree Grows In Brooklyn" is a heartfelt, moving novel which touched me deeply. Betty Smith's prose is powerful, as are her storyline and characters. This is a book I will keep to reread in the future. I cannot recommend it highly enough.JANA

I find books set in this era are hard for me to comprehend how hard it was to live in those times! It makes me feel so thankful for the niceities of my lifetime that I have taken for granted! These characters were brought to life by a splendid account of living in those times! Great read for any book reader!

I first read this book as a teenager, decades ago. It didn’t leave a strong impression on me. Francie’s life was very different from mine, and it was hard to appreciate the story. It showed up recently on a list of “must read in your lifetime” books and I decided to give it another shot. I’m now in reading this as a senior citizen. I thoroughly enjoyed it this time around, and had trouble putting it down. Betty Smith’s writing style was flowing and engaging. The story was brought to life in the context of the pre-WWI reality in NY. The interesting characters, the strong family ties, the determination and grit of Francie and her family assured the reader that this book is one to remember.

I love how the author has instilled everyday life in her words. So descriptive of Francie’s life, emotions and experiences that it’s hard not to fall in love with the characters. I definitely found myself hoping for the entire family and having that hope fulfilled by the end of the book. Wonderful book and story.

Engaging and very readable. A quiet story that was never dull, always kept me wanting to turn the page. Her story is nothing like mine, so I could not really relate, so I loved reading it all the more. Recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading a good story.

When I told all my friends that I was starting this book. They nodded their heads in reminiscence as you could tell they were remembering something special.Because of their actions, I felt I was in for a good read. I was not disappointed.This book gave me a glimpse of Brooklyn in the early 1900’s. The pain, the hope, and the small triumphs. I enjoyed every page.

Touching. Intimate. Interesting characters you care about. And old book that feels so relevant today. The chasm between the rich and poor, and the hopelessness of poverty is still very real. But hope wins out in the end.