Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter

Anne of Green Gables had it; Laura Ingalls had it; but no one possessed that feel good, sunny attitude in more abundance than Pollyanna Whittier. Her optimistic disposition was contagious and soon a whole town was influenced by the charm of this little girl.

Aunt Polly Harrington is rich, middle-aged, and still bitter over a failed love affair. She’s grown stoic, set in her ways, and accustomed to a solitary lifestyle. But when her niece is suddenly and tragically orphaned, out of a sense of duty, Aunt Polly agrees to bring Pollyanna into her home.

Despite her own grief, Pollyanna has learned an attitude alteration technique guaranteed to change anyone’s mood. It’s called the "just being glad game". Pollyanna uses this device as a tool to develop friendships and to impact the lives of Beldingsville’s loneliest residents. The bed-ridded Mrs. Snow is soon smiling over rainbows and looking forward to Pollyanna’s visits. The crotchety bachelor, Mr. Pendleton, is soon yearning for a child of his own to make his mansion a home. Even prim and proper Aunt Polly is opening her heart. Then a tragic accident occurs that nearly traps Pollyanna in her own game. That is, until she uncovers a secret that will change her life, and her aunt’s, forever.

When I think back to all of the books I read as a child, those that remain on my list of favorites all had one thing in common: they touched on some emotion and tugged at the heart. Pollyanna is one of those rare classics that teaches us the powerful lesson that life is what you make it. Happiness is a mindset and that’s something that readers of all ages can be enriched by.

In 1960, Disney Studios brought this novel to the big screen in an adaptation starring Hayley Mills. To read a little bit more about the film and to watch some actual scenes, visit the following website "http://disney.go.com/DisneyVideos/family..."

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Best places to buy this book online (from Best Book Buys) Note: Prices include S&H and are subject to change

1. Paperback (New) eCampus "http://www.ecampus.com/" $3.97
2. Paperback (Used) Half.com "http://www.half.com/" $4.44

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