1. Analyze several examples of the Glad Game. How many examples of the game seem silly or foolish? How many seem like a good way of dealing with life's difficulties?

2. Write about the difference between optimism and pessimism. Does Pollyanna's optimism deny the reality of suffering? Is she insensitive to the pain of others?

3. In most books about a young person growing up, important lessons are learned from the adults in the story.

Does Pollyanna learn from the adults around her, or do the adults learn more from her? What do they learn?

4. Analyze the relationship between Aunt Polly and Pollyanna. What changes occur in their relationship? How does Aunt Polly change? Why does Pollyanna choose to stay with Aunt Polly when Mr. Pendleton asks her to come live with him?

5. Compare Pollyanna's character and maturity in Pollyanna and its sequel...