Pollyanna

Pollyanna (1913), written by Eleanor H. Porter, is considered a classic of children’s literature. Pollyanna makes people see the good in life rather than the sad and negative. The book’s tone, however, is not preachy. It is an adventure tale with many familiar elements. A poor orphan girl arrives in a strange place, lives in a big house, and, through her liveliness and curiosity, explores and conquers the new environment. High spirited and free of prejudice, Pollyanna is willing to talk and associate with everyone. Porter examines the trials of life-poverty, loneliness, and illness and concludes that a cheerful child’s presence can alleviate social and personal bitterness.