Daddy-Long-Legs

Daddy-Long-Legs is a classic epistolary novel by Jean Webster, first published in 1912. The story unfolds through a series of letters written by Jerusha "Judy" Abbott, an eighteen-year-old orphan, to her anonymous benefactor. This mysterious trustee, whom Judy nicknames "Daddy-Long-Legs" after seeing only his long shadow, provides her with the opportunity to attend an exclusive women's college. Judy's letters vividly chronicle her experiences, observations, and emotional growth as she transitions from a sheltered institutional life to the vibrant world of academia and social interaction. She details her studies, friendships, aspirations to become a writer, and her evolving understanding of the world. Throughout her college years, Judy grapples with her benefactor's unknown identity, developing a complex relationship with him through her candid correspondence, which ultimately leads to a surprising and heartwarming revelation about his true identity and their connection. The novel explores themes of education, social class, independence, and the power of human connection.

Reading ease score: 81.9 (6th grade). Easy to read.