Are you looking for a good classic book for your child? Find out what mum Jill thinks of Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter:

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I have to say, Pollyana is an all time favourite book of mine. I read it and re-read it several times as a child.

About Pollyanna

The central character is young orphan Pollyanna Whittier, who on the death of her parents, is sent to live with her strict Aunt Polly in Vermont.

Pollyanna has been taught by her Father to play “The Glad Game”, where you find something to be glad about, no matter what the situation.

So when wealthy Aunt Polly bypasses all the beautiful, unused bedrooms and gives her niece an attic room with no pictures or carpets, she thanks her aunt for the beautiful view from her attic window.

Pollyanna visits some of the most cantankerous townspeople and soon has them playing the game with her. She brings happiness and joy to her Aunt’s household, although Aunt Polly takes longer than most to warm to her.

Aunt Polly realises how much her niece means to her when Pollyanna is hit by a car. Unfortunately she overhears the doctor telling her Aunt she will never walk again and Pollyanna becomes downhearted and can find nothing to be glad about.

Soon the townspeople begin calling to Aunt Polly’s house to enquire after the injured girl, and to let her know how much they miss her around the town and slowly her spirit returns and she plays the game again.

The book ends happily with Aunt Polly marrying her former beau and Pollyanna being sent to a hospital where they help her to walk again.

You might also enjoy reading Charlotte’s Web

The Verdict

It’s a great book with a strong female character (two if you count Aunt Polly).

It also has a good sequel, Pollyanna Grows Up, if you want to continue reading and finding out more about this irrepressible character.

You might also enjoy reading 20 Brilliant Books to Celebrate Bold Girls

Over to you now. Did you enjoy reading Pollyanna when you were a child? Has your child read the book? Tell us in the comments below.