A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
by Betty Smith
8.62 / 10 536K ratings
Classic- Language
- English
- Published
- 2024
- Publisher
- Perennial Classics
- Pages
- 496
- ISBN
- 9780060929886
In the tenements of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, at the turn of the twentieth century, young Francie Nolan looks out on a world of poverty, but one filled with the vibrant, harsh, and beautiful realities of life. Her family is bound by a fierce love and torn apart by struggle. Her mother, Katie, is a pragmatic janitor, scrubbing floors to keep them fed, while her father, Johnny, is a beloved, charismatic singer with a weakness for alcohol and dreams he cannot fulfill. Francie finds her solace and her escape in the pages of library books and in the quiet observation of her bustling neighborhood.
Like the tenacious Tree of Heaven that pushes its way through the concrete of her backyard, Francie is determined to not only survive but to flourish. This novel chronicles her journey from a curious girl to a young woman, capturing the small, daily moments of heartbreak and joy that shape a life. It is a story about the profound sacrifices made for family, the relentless pursuit of an education as a means of escape, and the enduring power of the human spirit to find beauty and hope in the most unlikely of places.
Like the tenacious Tree of Heaven that pushes its way through the concrete of her backyard, Francie is determined to not only survive but to flourish. This novel chronicles her journey from a curious girl to a young woman, capturing the small, daily moments of heartbreak and joy that shape a life. It is a story about the profound sacrifices made for family, the relentless pursuit of an education as a means of escape, and the enduring power of the human spirit to find beauty and hope in the most unlikely of places.
Original edition
Tree Grows in BrooklynOriginally published in 1971 English Tandem
Other editions (128)
No summary for this edition yet.
What other readers say
Liked
Readers overwhelmingly praise this book as a profound and unforgettable coming-of-age story that delves into the harsh realities of life with unflinching honesty. Many describe it as one of the best young adult books they have ever read, highlighting its ability to portray a difficult world without offering platitudes, instead presenting a raw, realistic narrative. The protagonist, Francie, is consistently lauded as a deeply relatable and resilient character, mature beyond her years yet retaining a childlike innocence and love for books. The supporting cast is equally celebrated for being vibrant, colorful, and incredibly human, making the early 20th-century Brooklyn setting come alive with remarkable specificity and a "you-are-there" quality. The prose is often described as elegant, lyrical, and beautifully written, capable of evoking strong emotions from laughter to profound sadness, and leaving a lasting impact long after the final page.
Disliked
Despite its widespread acclaim, some readers found aspects of the book challenging. A recurring point of criticism is the narrative's slow pace and extensive detail, with some feeling that the beginning dragged and took considerable effort to get into. The book is not driven by a traditional plot with clear rising action and climax, which some found led to a lack of tension or made it feel like "not a lot happens." While many appreciate its realism, a few reviewers found the depiction of poverty and hardship to be stressful or even "bleak" and "not a fun book" to read. Additionally, some modern readers noted elements they perceived as misogynistic or a portrayal of women that felt dated, particularly in how characters sometimes related to men and each other, although it is acknowledged that this reflects the historical period depicted.
In short
Overall, this book stands as a beloved American classic, cherished for its timeless exploration of universal human experiences such as growing up, family dynamics, and the struggle for survival and self-improvement. It is highly recommended for readers who appreciate character-driven stories, rich historical detail, and narratives that find profound beauty and hope amidst hardship. While it may require patience due to its leisurely pace and focus on everyday life, those who persevere will discover a deeply moving and inspiring tale. It is particularly recommended for young women and anyone seeking a powerful story about resilience, the importance of education, and the enduring human spirit, offering a poignant and unforgettable journey into a bygone era that remains remarkably relevant today.
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