The title only begins to explain what “A Tree Grows In Brooklyn” means to me. I first read the book when I was around 12. Now I’m 20 and I’ve read the book 10 times, not including the times I’ll pick it up and read at what ever page is open. Smith creates a world as vivid and lively as the one you live in right now. I read very often, but rarely do I read books that the characters are real for me. I imagine that when I put the book down Francie, Neely, an all the other characters go about their day to day business. You share every part of their lives from the art of buying groceries at the turn of the century in NY, to trying to take a bath in the tenement houses.

Though this book could be labeled a survey of any family, it does so much more. Smith somehow finds away to not only identify complicated problems in a family, but also how they are resolved. Not many books will straight out deal with the idea that a parent does not really like one of their children. ATGB deals with this issue and Francie in my eyes does a fine job of dealing with it herself. When you are in a family it is nearly impossible to step out side of it to realize what a beautiful and masterful mosaic it is. ATGB gives you a chance to look at this complex family – see them at their best and worst – and realize that the network they create is a beautiful thing – just like any family.

This opinion is not even close to explaining how important this book is to me. It has become a sort of security blanket for me. I travel with it and read it all the time. It always helps me gain some perspective of my world whenever I re-enter the world in ATGB. I hope this can compel you to read this for enjoyment. No need for the crazy obsession I have with it – just enjoy!


Recommended: Yes