Book Review: A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

This novel has been in my eye for a while now and I finally got the chance to read it a little while ago. Set in the early 1900's, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn revolves around the early life of Francie and her family. Slow-paced,  the novel like a evening stroll through a park. You can take your time to enjoy the setting and imagery around you, as well as people watch (or in this case, get to know the characters lol). There isn't so much of a plot, as it's almost like a fictional biography of Francie Nolan's life, as she and her family grow up in 1900's Brooklyn and work to improve their lives.

My favorite part about the novel was the character development. I loved that all of characters were not specifically good or bad, but rather had a mixture both of good and bad traits in them. For example, Johnny Nolan might be an alcoholic, but he is also charming and thoughtful. On the other hand Katie Nolan might be strong and independent, but she isn't completely flawless, as seen in her relationship with Francie. The novel is also told in third person ominous, so the character personalities are unbiased.

The other thing I really liked that the novel constantly illustrated the importance of education over money. The Nolans might be poor, but through the power of both formal and informal education, they are able to have interesting experiences.

Overall, I loved this book and it has now become one of my favorites!