A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

About Book: A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a 1943 semi-autobiographical novel written by Betty Smith. The story focuses on an impoverished but aspirational adolescent girl and her family living in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York City, during the first two decades of the 20th century. The book was an immense success. It was also released in an Armed Services Edition, the size of a mass-market paperback, to fit in a uniform pocket. One Marine wrote to Smith, "I can't explain the emotional reaction that took place in this dead heart of mine... A surge of confidence has swept through me, and I feel that maybe a fellow has a fighting chance in this world after all." The main metaphor of the book is the hardy Tree of Heaven, whose persistent ability to grow and flourish even in the inner city mirrors the protagonist's desire to better herself.

My thoughts: A poignant story from the perspective of Francine during the early 1900’s and her coming of age. The Nolan family are first generation immigrant family from Ireland and Austria moving to America It is a look at life, family relationships and their struggles through the eyes of a child. It is a feast of imagination and resourcefulness of a families struggle to survive each day. The book shows how struggles can be turned into hope with grit, determination, and love. This book has beauty, enlightenment and sadness all rolled into one. It shows Francine’s naivety, hope and questions during her period of growing up into a teenager. Along with her relationships with all members of her immediate and wider family. You do not need to be born in America or poor to feel linked to her feelings and thoughts. A great read which has certainly stood the test of time and a must to read.