This book, written by Betty Smith in 1943, is one of my favorites. I first read it when I was twelve years old and became so attached to the characters and story, Francie Nolan felt more like a best friend than a fictional character. I identified with her love of reading, writing, and her determination to find good in life. Set in turn-of-the-century Brooklyn, this is the story of her family’s struggle to survive against poverty, prejudice, alcoholism and hardship.

Francie is a solitary child, adored by her father, a big-hearted, impractical alcoholic. Her mother, a kind but tired and reserved person who clearly favors her son Neely, is forced to be the realist in the family.

Francie is rejected by her peers and treated poorly at school due to her family’s social standing and her father’s reputation as a drunk. Her mother puts kerosene in her hair to “kill germs” resulting in an unpleasant smell that adds to the ridicule and humiliation. Despite the bleakness of their life, Francie endures with grace and a strength symbolized by the tree growing outside her window.

This is a wonderful story that you won’t soon forget.

Tags: A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, Betty Smith, Book Review