Tag Archives: optimism

Pollyanna

by Eleanor H. Porter

Unconditional Recommendation: Eleven-year-old orphan Pollyanna, full of happiness and love, goes to live with her cold, strict Aunt Polly and turns the household and the town upside down in the best way.

Age: Middle Grade
Series: Stand Alone
Pages:  224-333, depending on edition
Published: 1913

Genre: Classic

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Ishmael

by E.D.E.N. Southworth

Conditional Recommendation: Ishmael, though born motherless and impoverished, rises above his circumstances through humility, integrity and hard work.

Age: Young Adult
Series: Book 1 of 2
Pages: 528
Published: 1876

Genre: Historical

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