Polly Oliver's Problem

About this book

"Polly Oliver's Problem" by Kate Douglas Smith Wiggin is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story introduces readers to Polly Oliver, a spirited young girl who grapples with her desire for independence while supporting her ailing mother and managing a household filled with boarders. The novel reflects themes of personal growth, the challenges of young adulthood, and the intricacies of familial love, set against the backdrop of California's picturesque landscapes. The opening of the novel centers on Polly's strong-willed nature and her humorous determination to rid her household of the boarders who disrupt her aspirations for a more joyful family life. With a firm declaration that "the boarders must go," Polly shares her whimsical strategies for evicting them, all while displaying her vibrant personality and wit. The dynamic between Polly and her gentle mother is highlighted as they navigate the difficulties of managing their lives after the loss of Polly's father, setting the stage for Polly's evolving roles as a young woman striving for a better future. Through her playful musings and earnest commitments to her mother, Polly begins to envision a life beyond the constraints of their current situation.