![A Tree Grows in Brooklyn [75th Anniversary Ed] (Perennial Classics)](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81PvdrKD+6L._AC_UL160_SR160,160_.jpg)
I first read Cold Sassy many years ago, but I had forgotten the story line. I think I enjoyed it more the 2nd time through than the first because I was more appreciative of the richness of the characters than in my youth. Told from the eyes of 14 year old Will Tweedy, the story centers around the Southern town of Cold Sassy and one of its leading families; the Rucker Blakeslees. And, what a delightful, unique family they are with all the idiosyncrasies of any real family. Mix in a young Yankee bride marrying a much-older very recently widowed man and the story just delights with great one-liners and deep emotions. Cars are just coming into being, religion is serious stuff, and small-town prejudices and traditions are strongly held. One of my favorite scenes, though there are many, was towards the end of the book, when a very ill Grandpa Blakeslee explains to his much-younger wife, what he believes the meaning of the scriptural injunction,;Ask and it shall be given.; I was particularly riveted and mesmerized by his poignant interpretation of one of the most famous and most oft-quoted passages of scripture. As a religious person, I found it healing and helpful and possibly more accurate than what is heard in sermons all across the world. He says it better than I ever could, but he explains that God isn't going to GIVE you the job when you want it and pray for it, or health when you are praying for it; but what he WILL give you - in answer to your prayers - is COMFORT in knowing you are not alone; He will be there for you and give you strength to deal with whatever life has handed you. I don't mean to give the impression that this is a religious book, it is far more than that, for sure. It is a book about family, love, prejudice, pride, jealousy, faith. Olive Burns, as a writer, has a marvelous gift with words. Her characters are rich and memorable and each one is true to life. Oh, yes, this is a book to savor and enjoy. And, perhaps down the road a bit, I'll sit and read it again and savor it even more!
Post note: I just listened to this book, and I LOVE IT! I cannot say enough good about this delightful, entertaining book. A very interesting thing happened to me as I listened. When it came to the end, I was sort of teary-eyed and so very sad it was over.
BOY, howdy, do I Love this book! March 16, 2020
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now.
Similar items that may deliver to you quickly
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
About the author
Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Reviews with images
An amazing story, but the book was in rough shape
I love this book! It is one of my favorite books I read way back when, when I was in high school. I was really disappointed at the condition of the book. Black ink marks on the edges of the pages and some type of stain on the pages! I bought the book to re-read it and share it with my niece who loves to read. The book was in rough shape when I took it out of the package.
Top reviews from other countries
Gianni Cucinella
Gran bel libro
Reviewed in Italy on June 24, 2022
Gianni Cucinella
Reviewed in Italy on June 24, 2022
Images in this review
book lover
A feel good novel, beautifully
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 22, 2014dorothy
... book for a friend as it is such a good read about American way of life in a small ...
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 26, 2015