Pollyanna (1913) by Eleanor H. Porter

Talk about “Keeping in the sunlight!”  I grew up watching the Haley Mills film version of “Pollyanna,” but it wasn’t until well into adulthood that I actually read the book.  Since then, I’ve been reading it at least once a year; it is a true gem!  This year is the 150th birthday of author, Eleanor H. Porter.

I know the term “Pollyanna” is sometimes used with a pejorative context meaning someone who refuses to see the realities of a situation, but I find Pollyanna’s sunny outlook absolutely endearing and inspiring.  This story reminds me how changing my outlook on a situation can immediately shift my whole world.

During my most recent reread of this, my 5-year old caught sight of it and we ended up reading the whole book together.  This book definitely ranks in my top five.  Not to be missed.

(The only thing that may require some maturity in our current day, is the author’s heavy use of a certain word that means “to blurt out.”)

 

You might also enjoy:
Pollyanna Grows Up

 

Suggestions for Activities/Further Research (SPOILERS included):

–Pollyanna plays the “Glad Game” and teaches it to the people of Beldingsville.  Try making a list of some things that seemed like negative situations at first, and see if you can find a way to be glad about them.

–Pollyanna and Mr. Pendleton experiment with prisms.  Research Isaac Newton’s discovery about colors and prisms.  See if you can find some fun projects that involve prisms.

–There is some talk in the book over the controversy of automobiles.  Research the automobile’s history and the public’s reaction.

–Pollyanna often delivers homemade goods to Mrs. Snow.  Is there anyone in your neighborhood who could benefit from a homemade meal or treat?  Perhaps someone is sick or has recently given birth.  Talk to your parent and see if you can arrange making and delivering a special meal.

–The doctors in this book make house calls.  Although this is rare in the U.S. these days, there are still places where doctors do this.  Why would a house call make sense?  When did these stop becoming a normal practice?

–Pollyanna’s name is made from a combination of her two aunts’ names.  What would your name be if you combined the names of two of your relatives?  (aunts, uncles, grandparents, or parents)

–There used to be a board game called the “Glad Game,” inspired by this book.  Although it is discontinued now, consider creating your own “Glad” board game to play.

–There also used to be “Glad Clubs” based on this book.  What do you think a Glad Club would be like?  Try creating your own, even if it’s only for one meeting.  (There was – or is?-  still one club in existence until recently; research to see if you can find out where it is.)

–Every June, Littleton, New Hampshire celebrates “Glad Day.”  If you’re in the area, go see the Pollyanna statue and celebrate!

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