If you loved Pollyanna as a child, picking up this sequel feels like getting a long letter from an old friend. It's wonderful to see how she's doing, and Porter doesn't disappoint.

The Story

The book jumps ahead six years. Pollyanna is now fourteen and is sent to live in Boston with her Aunt Polly and the no-nonsense Mrs. Carew. She's plunged into a world of formal dinners and social expectations, a far cry from her simple life in Beldingsville. While she tries to bring her famous 'Glad Game' to the gloomy city, she finds it's harder than it used to be. Her biggest project becomes trying to cheer up the lonely and disabled Jamie, Mrs. Carew's ward. The plot thickens when Jimmy Bean—the orphan boy from the first book, now a young man named James Pendleton—shows up in Boston. Old friendships are tested, new feelings begin to bloom, and Pollyanna has to figure out who she is and what she wants, all while trying to fix the unhappiness she sees around her.

Why You Should Read It

This book is so much more than a rehash of the original. It tackles the tricky transition from childhood idealism to adult reality. Pollyanna's optimism is no longer just a naive game; it becomes a conscious choice, a tool she has to work harder to use. Watching her struggle with it makes her feel real and relatable. The side characters, especially the grumpy Aunt Polly and the wounded Jamie, get wonderful arcs. Porter doesn't shy away from showing that a positive attitude isn't a magic wand, but it is a powerful starting point for healing and connection. It’s a quiet, character-driven story that leaves you feeling genuinely hopeful.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who enjoys classic, heartwarming stories about good people trying to do good things. If you've ever wondered 'what happened next?' to your favorite childhood literary characters, this is a must-read. It’s also a great pick for a younger reader ready for a slightly more mature story, or for any adult who needs a comforting, uplifting read that doesn't feel sugary. You'll close the book with a smile, and maybe the urge to look for the silver lining yourself.