A review by thaatswhatsheread
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

emotional hopeful inspiring 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? No

3.0


I finished it, and the reading experience was easy and I found myself interested in Francie's story, but I felt uncomfortable about the casual Antisemitism in the first part of the story. I can see why people like it. There is a coziness to the story, especially as we get to know the colorful characters in Francie's family and neighborhood, and it's definietly quite quotable. My copy had plenty of great quips and descriptions underlined.

I wish Francie had been a bit more active in the roles that she played, but I found myself finding her mother Kate to be a more interesting character. I was glad that we got the section where we saw how she and Johnny met, and how life hardened them to the point where they are when we first meet them. I found myself happier for her at the end of her arc.
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