Reviews

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

dr_dick's review against another edition

5.0

marvelous. i loved this book. great writing and beautiful storytelling.

dogearedprints's review against another edition

5.0

I loved the writing in this book. I loved Francie. I loved the Nolans. I loved the look back to a time that is so distant and yet feels so relatable. As a writer, I loved watching the growth of these characters as their lives changed. And I wonder about my family growing up in Brooklyn around the same time and wish I could ask them questions. What a wonderful read!

emilycrall's review against another edition

5.0

Oh wow. I don't remember who told me to read this book, but I can't imagine that I chanced across it in the library solely from luck. This book drew me in so deeply that when I'd tear myself back to reality, I wouldn't know for a moment who I was or where I was. I was Francie and I lived in Brooklyn. It was that simple. The words, the depth, the growth, the sorrow, the happiness, every single emotion that she felt, I felt. This is a book that I wish I could tell someone why they need to read it, but I only have words enough to say that they must read it. No explanations; no reasons. There are none needed. This book stole my heart.

gunnarstrange's review against another edition

adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

llesky's review against another edition

5.0

I loved this book! It was great historical fiction that really put me into the time period. Francie's story was very moving, especially the story about her father. I could have sobbed. Francie is an amazing young woman, and I loved her family's attitude about life and education. I'm glad I finally read it!

alfuria's review

emotional hopeful sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

camillek226's review against another edition

hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

kalidaviraga's review against another edition

2.0

I really, really want to say that I liked this book, because it's obvious that it's extremely well-written and probably appeals to a lot of readers. Readers who are not me. I think it just wasn't my bag. I'm not the biggest fan of character-driven books, vs. plot-driven, and I usually steer clear of war novels as a rule. But, I'd heard such good things about this book that I figured I'd give it a shot. I guess in the end I'm glad I read it, but mostly just so I can say I have, rather than because I actually enjoyed it. :-/

drkimburns's review against another edition

5.0

I’m going to miss Francie, Neely and Katie. I enjoyed their kindness, honesty and zest for life despite their poverty and challenges. How often do you read about characters that have so much goodness?

thewritehendess's review against another edition

5.0

Breathtaking.