e-artnow presents the Christmas Specials Series. We have selected the greatest Christmas novels, short stories and fairy tales for this joyful and charming holiday season, for all those who want to keep the spirit of Christmas alive with a heartwarming tale. "Pollyanna" - Pollyanna Whittier is an eleven-year-old orphan who goes to live in the fictional town of Beldingsville, Vermont, with her wealthy but stern and cold spinster Aunt Polly, who does not want to take in Pollyanna but feels it is her duty to her late sister. Pollyanna's philosophy of life centers on what she calls "The Glad Game," an optimistic and positive attitude she learned from her father. The game consists of finding something to be glad about in every situation, no matter how bleak it may be. It originated in an incident one Christmas when Pollyanna, who was hoping for a doll in the missionary barrel, found only a pair of crutches inside. "Pollyanna Grows Up" - Pollyanna, now cured of her crippling spinal injury, spends her time teaching the "glad game" to new town, and a very bitter woman, Mrs. Carew, who became very bitter hearted since her sister's son, Jamie, was missing. Along the way she makes new friends, such as Sadie and Jamie: Jamie is a delicate literary genius whose withered legs compel him to rely on a wheelchair and crutches.
In her timeless works "Pollyanna" and "Pollyanna Grows Up," Eleanor H. Porter masterfully crafts a narrative that explores the indomitable spirit of optimism through the adventures of its titular character, Pollyanna Whittier. Set in the early 20th century, these novels delve into themes of resilience, the impact of positive thinking, and the intricacies of human relationships. Porter's prose is both accessible and evocative, reflecting the societal values of her time, while also providing a critique of rigid social norms. The novels are rich with character development, showcasing how Pollyanna's infectious optimism profoundly influences the lives of those around her, even in the face of adversity. Eleanor H. Porter was born in 1868 and spent much of her life dedicated to writing stories that reflect her belief in the transformative power of positivity. Influenced by her experiences and the prevailing ideals of the early 20th century, Porter sought to inspire readers with her protagonist's unique outlook on life. Her ability to intertwine deeply felt human experiences with light-hearted tone laid the groundwork for a genre that champions resilienc