Stephanie’s Comments (group member since Sep 03, 2016)

Stephanie’s comments from the A Tree Grows in Brooklyn Readalong group.

Katie, I love Sissy as well. She is such a riot! Never a dull moment with her!

Johnny's passing was so sad for all characters, but especially Francie. My heart broke for her when Ms. Gardner told her her writing was sordid. I loved the idea of Francie's play - it was so real and hated seeing her crushed the way she was. I wonder if the teacher knew she had recently lost her father? I assumed yes, but then thought that she probably didn't as I am sure Francie did not say anything. I am not sure it would have mattered to the teacher.

I just finished this book and know that it will be one of those precious texts that stays with me forever.

I was holding back tears at the end when Francie was watching Florry sitting on her fire escape reading a book. I was so happy to know that the Nolan family was going to be okay, that Francie was going to college, that things were looking up for them all. However, I was so sad to see the end of Francie's childhood and innocence (even though it had been evolving for some time). Very beautiful and bittersweet moment.

I so wish this book had an epilogue. I want to see what happened to them all.

I am really enjoying this book so far. It definitely reminds me of my childhood; of seeing your parents, not for who they really are, but in such a lovely light.

My favorite part was Francie sleeping in the living room on Saturday nights, hearing her parents talk. This part really hit home. I remember feeling so safe as a child lying in bed and hearing my parents moving around the house.

I love Francie and as much as I am excited to read more, I am dreading the inevitable loss of her innocence.