Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Pollyanna
- Author: Eleanor H. Porter
- Narrator: Phil Chenevert
- Length: 0.255555556
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 01-Jan
- Publisher: LibriVox
- Genre: Teen, General
- ISBN13: SABFAB9780757
Listening to Eleanor H. Porter’s *Pollyanna*, narrated by the warm and steady voice of Phil Chenevert, is like sitting down with an old friend who reminds you of the beauty in life’s simplest moments. As I pressed play on this audiobook during a long train ride through the Alps, the story unfolded like a sunbeam splitting through the clouds, transporting me not only to the quaint New England village that Pollyanna inhabits but also deep into my own memories of finding joy in unexpected places.
The story begins with 11-year-old Pollyanna, an orphan sent to live with her stern Aunt Polly in a house as cold and rigid as the aunt herself. Pollyanna’s relentless optimism, embodied in her “glad game”—a challenge to find something to be glad about in every situation—becomes the emotional heartbeat of the tale. It’s a game she learned from her late father, and it’s a philosophy that carries her through hardships, transforming not only her own life but the lives of those around her.
It reminded me of a time when I was staying with a family in Oaxaca, and their grandmother would share stories every evening. Her voice was a masterclass in oral storytelling, rich with wisdom and humor, much like the way Phil Chenevert brings Pollyanna’s world to life. Chenevert’s narration has a grandfatherly quality that feels intimate and comforting, as though he’s sharing the story just for you. You can almost feel the warmth of a fireside as he speaks, his cadence perfectly matching the ebb and flow of Porter’s prose.
What struck me as I listened was the universal resonance of Pollyanna’s “glad game.” It’s a philosophy that reminded me of my own travels, particularly a moment in the Atacama Desert in Chile. I was driving through its vast stretches of surreal landscape, listening to García Márquez’s *One Hundred Years of Solitude*. Much like Pollyanna’s optimism, Márquez’s magical realism painted a world where life’s challenges could be reframed into something extraordinary. Pollyanna’s ability to reframe hardship through joy mirrors the transformative power of literature itself.
Porter’s writing sparkles with simple yet profound truths. Through Pollyanna’s encounters—whether it’s with the grumpy Mrs. Snow or the reclusive Mr. Pendleton—the story explores themes of resilience, community, and the healing power of positivity. At its core, *Pollyanna* is a testament to the idea that happiness is not something we stumble upon but something we cultivate. Listening to this audiobook felt like a gentle reminder to pause and appreciate life’s hidden blessings, much like finding a picturesque mountain village during a hike you thought would lead nowhere.
However, Pollyanna’s unyielding optimism might feel overly saccharine to some listeners, especially in moments where the narrative leans heavily on moral lessons. This is where Chenevert’s narration truly shines; his nuanced delivery ensures that Pollyanna’s cheerfulness never feels forced or one-dimensional. His voice softens the edges of the story’s didactic moments, creating a balanced listening experience that feels authentic and heartfelt.
For those who love audiobooks, the production quality of this LibriVox recording is solid, though not as polished as professional studio productions. There’s a rawness to it that, in a way, complements the homespun charm of Porter’s writing. It’s worth noting that this audiobook is free, which makes it an accessible way to explore a classic that has touched countless readers over generations.
If you’ve enjoyed works like *Anne of Green Gables* or *Little Women*, *Pollyanna* will likely strike a similar chord. It’s a story that celebrates resilience and the transformative power of joy, offering a timeless reminder that even in life’s darkest corners, there’s always a glimmer of light to be found.
As I reflect on my journey with this audiobook, I find myself thinking about the people I’ve met on my travels—those who, like Pollyanna, carry a quiet grace that lifts the spirits of everyone around them. This audiobook is not just a story; it’s an experience, a gentle nudge to view the world through a lens of gratitude and hope.
Whether you’re listening on a train, during a walk in the park, or curled up in a quiet corner at home, *Pollyanna* narrated by Phil Chenevert invites you to rediscover the art of being glad. It’s a journey worth taking, and one that stays with you long after the final chapter.
With wanderlust and appreciation for timeless tales,
Marcus Rivera
Until our next literary adventure, keep seeking joy in the journey.
