A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith is an amazing book. I loved the book completely and could not stop reading it once I started. Everything is in vivid detail. The main character Francie Nolan has become my hero. The story begins with Francie at the age of 11. She is growing up in Brooklyn in a terribly poor family. Yet despite the hardships she faces, despite the days without food, despite the freezing winters, Francie still remains optimistic with an open heart. She is loving and very intelligent. When I read about her I feel like I am suddenly transported into Brooklyn and living the life that Francie lives. The book is touching, realistic and honest. When Francie grows up she becomes more mature as she loses her innocence. She has changed so much throughout the book.

Brooklyn, New York

The Book

I also like how Betty Smith puts background information on, not only Francie, but her whole family. Smith adds details about her Mom, Dad, Aunts and Grandma. Because of this, I was able to visualize each character in my mind as if I already know them in real life. I like how this story is written in third person, which lets me read the thoughts of all the other characters. I can understand each character more. This book is one of my favorite books, and it is a kind of book where I can read over and over again and still enjoy it each time.