84 pages • 2 hours read
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
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Book Brief
528
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1910s
1943
Adult
12+ years
810L
Super Short Summary
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith follows Francie Nolan, a girl growing up in an impoverished family in early 20th-century Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Through hardships and her father's struggle with alcoholism, Francie finds joy in small pleasures, works hard, excels in school, and dreams of a better future. The story showcases her journey of resilience, hope, and determination despite the challenges of poverty. The book depicts themes such as poverty and substance abuse.
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Inspirational
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
496,854 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Betty Smith’s A Tree Grows in Brooklyn beautifully depicts the struggles and resilience of a young girl in early 20th-century Brooklyn, capturing the era's poverty and hope with eloquence. Readers praise its vivid characters and emotional depth, though some find its pacing slow. Overall, it remains a poignant, enduring classic.
Who Should Read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn?
Fans of character-driven, poignant coming-of-age stories will find A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith compelling. Similar to Louisa May Alcott's Little Women and Richard Russo's Empire Falls, it appeals to readers interested in family dynamics, resilience, and the immigrant experience in historical settings.
496,854 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Neeley Nolan
Neeley Nolan
Francie's amiable younger brother who is favored by their mother and shares a love of music with their father.
Katie Nolan
Katie Nolan
Francie and Neeley's hardworking mother who balances beauty with a pragmatic nature while striving to provide for her family.
Johnny Nolan
Johnny Nolan
The charming and musically inclined father of Francie and Neeley, who struggles with his responsibilities due to alcoholism.
Aunt Sissy
Aunt Sissy
Katie's lively and impetuous sister, who, despite being uneducated, brings a sense of humor and support to the Nolan family.
Aunt Evy
Aunt Evy
Katie's sister, whose storytelling ability and humor offer assistance and amusement to the family dynamic.
Sergeant Michael McShane
Sergeant Michael McShane
An upright police sergeant known for his honesty, who later plays a significant role in the Nolan family's life.
Ben Blake
Ben Blake
A bright and athletic young man who assists Francie academically and shares a close friendship with her.
528
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1910s
1943
Adult
12+ years
810L
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