A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

Recently I read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith. It is set, of course, in Brooklyn, New York, at the beginning of the 20th century. At first, I thought it was going to be one of those overly-descriptive books. But after I got through a few pages, I realized how important the setting of the city was to the story. Francie, the main character who we watch grow into a young woman, experiences many trials from poverty and from a father who cannot shake his love of drink. While the father loves his family too, he never seems to be able to keep a steady job. Besides this, he is a loving and caring father, and Francie even feels that he understands her more than her mother, Katie, does. Francie's younger brother, Neeley, is the one who holds Katie's affections, though she tries not to show it.

Even in their poverty, Katie works relentlessly to pay the bills by cleaning the other flats in the building where they rent. Barely scraping by, the author heartrendingly describes Francie and Neeley hauling junk to the collector for a few extra pennies to spend on candy. However, Francie reads and reads and reads, and it is this love and curiosity for another world that drives her through this coming-of-age story. Katie pounds the importance of education and never taking a handout into their young minds, and it forces them to overcome what setbacks they might face.

It was so refreshing to see a family that stuck together no matter what. Even when Katie had to work more because Johnny, the father, couldn't hold a steady job as a singing waiter, she still loved him no matter what. While the novel never excuses Johnny's behavior, it instead highlights the faithfulness and love of Katie as she chooses to focus on the good qualities- his care for the children, his passion for her, and his carefree spirit that united the family. While the family sees much hardship before the end of the story, they remain close and uncompromising in their love for each other.

It was also very refreshing to see education and reading held in high esteem. Katie's mother tells her that she must read a page of the Bible (as good Catholics should) and a page of a great book (Katie was able to obtain a secondhand copy of Shakespeare's works) each night with the children. She does. Only seldom do they miss. When Francie can start going to the library by herself, she commits to reading a book every day. She starts with "A" and is working her way through the whole alphabet. Consequently, her imagination is ignited to the possibilities that life has to offer. If only our children at the beginning of the 21st century had this much enthusiasm for the printed word!!! (I continually commit to give my children that same exposure to books one day- starting when they are little ones.)

I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It is a great read, although it is a bit long. Still, each story folds into the over themes of the book and relates to Francie's growth as a young woman. I certainly came to tears at several points throughout the book. I am amazed how relevant the book was to our culture even today. Go get it. Read it soon!