Pollyanna Whittier is a young orphan sent to live with her stern, and emotionally distant, Aunt Polly.

Despite her bleak situation, Pollyanna is determined to seethe best in everything.

She plays what she and her late Father called "The Glad Game", where one must always find something to be glad about, no matter the circumstance.

Pollyanna's hopeful outlook brings joy to the dour city of New England, and its grateful citizens and her newfound friends come to the young girl's aid when the world tests her resolve the most.