Francie Nolan is the main character in the novel "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith. Set in the early 20th century, she is a young girl growing up in a poor family in Brooklyn, New York. Francie is intelligent, resourceful, and determined to improve her life despite the challenges she faces. Throughout the story, Francie navigates her childhood experiences, including her relationships with her family, friends, and the struggles of poverty. Her love for reading and education drives her aspirations, making her a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.