Pollyanna Whittier arrives in the stern New England town of Beldingsville to live with her wealthy, rigid aunt, Miss Polly Harrington. Left an orphan after her missionary father dies, the young girl brings with her a unique game taught by her father: finding something to be glad about in every difficult situation. Despite being relegated to a stifling attic room and encountering her aunt's cold disapproval, she begins to win over the household, starting with Nancy the maid and Old Tom the gardener.
As Pollyanna explores the town, her infectious cheerfulness gradually touches the lives of the most stubborn and unhappy residents. She wins over the cantankerous invalid Mrs. Snow with calves'-foot jelly and hairstyling, and thaws the bitter heart of the reclusive millionaire John Pendleton. Even the stern minister finds inspiration in her philosophy. Her presence acts as a catalyst, dissolving old grudges and melting the icy reserve of the entire community, including her own aunt.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Pollyanna is struck by a motor car, resulting in a severe spinal injury that leaves her paralyzed. Confronted with this devastating prognosis, she struggles desperately to maintain her positive outlook, but finds it nearly impossible to play her game when she is the one suffering. As she laments her inability to walk, the town she has helped awakens to her plight, mobilizing in a massive wave of gratitude and affection.
Throughout her long convalescence, the community rallies around her, bringing messages of hope and demonstrating how her teachings have transformed their own lives. Aunt Polly undergoes a profound emotional awakening, reconciling with her past and finding love with Dr. Chilton. The story culminates in a hopeful outlook as Pollyanna is sent away to a specialized doctor, leaving open the possibility of recovery and a joyful reunion with the people whose lives she saved.
