After "To Kill a Mockingbird", this is my favourite novel written by an American. Although, obviously, I read it years after its initial publication, I still identified strongly with the protagonist and her story. Very powerful - surprisingly contemporary at times.

I really liked this book. Aside from the "coming from nothing" story line, so many of the themes in this book are universally relatable. All of the characters have flaws, but they have redeeming qualities as well. It was so well written, heart-warming and accessible. It strikes me as a book that was really ahead of its time. A lovely read.

Excellent for ages 10-15, especially girls (which is when I first read it) as an adult, I found it sentimental. It is well written, but such a morality, "pull yourself up by your bootstraps and always have faith and hope" tale that I sorta made me gag. That's not to say I wasn't pulled into the story - I certainly was. I just can't recommend this as good reading for adults.

I so loved this book in 1975 as a teenager and am happy to see readers are still finding and enjoying it.

This is an intriguing book. It captivates you about the 1920s in Brooklyn.

The Orleans Outrageous book club read this book in May 2012. I found this a great story and I enjoyed reading it. Some of the other members were going to check out other books by the author.

My FAVORITE book of all time. I read it my Senior year of high school, and I am still raving about this book. I loved how this book really put me in my place in terms of humbleness and thankfulness. This book made me dream wonderful thoughts, cry along with the characters, and laugh during the ridiculous parts. This book is more than meets the eye. Prepare to be blown away.

This book is, I believe, an American treasure. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith is the quintessential coming-of-age story for young girls. Francie Nolan’s difficult childhood growing up in the early 1900’s in the slums of Brooklyn resonates with pride, resourcefulness, and heart. We are given an in-depth look at a small slice of American life in the early part of the twentieth century. Francie’s life is difficult, the less favoured child of a remote mother, having a drunken, musical father who is many things but never a wage-earner, she is growing up as a tenement child, dirty, hungry and ragged. She wins our hearts with her determination to flourish and grow. As the tree outside her window manages to survive in difficult conditions so does Francie overcome her poverty and neglect. How can you not fall in love with this little girl, who vows to herself to read a book a day. Although Francie is the main character, we are rewarded with many other well developed, real people. From her loveable, loose, people-smart Aunt Sissy to her complex, hard-working strong mother, each character has their own identity and fills the pages of the book with their stories. Written in a straight forward, deceptively simple manner, the author gives so much heart and soul to Francie that the reader can’t help but be carried away by her story. The book is filled with many beautiful, thoughtful moments where Francie’s feelings and reflections on her life are expressed vividly. A Tree Grows In Brooklyn is a book for generations to enjoy, both hopeful and uplifting, a rich and rewarding read.

My favorite of all time. A must read for every teen girl. I have read it several times as an adult & still love it!

A beautiful story that explores the many facets of humanity. A love of books and inner fortitude save a girl from the poverty and sad home life she was born into. An inspiring read for all.