Daddy Long Legs : Book Review

"Daddy-Long-Legs" by Jean Webster is a heartwarming coming-of-age novel that follows the journey of Jerusha Abbott, a young orphan girl with a knack for writing. The story is told through a series of letters that Jerusha writes to her anonymous benefactor, whom she affectionately refers to as Daddy-Long-Legs, owing to his tall and shadowy presence.

As the book unfolds, we witness Jerusha's growth and development as she attends college, thanks to the sponsorship of her mysterious benefactor. Her letters serve as a window into her experiences, friendships, and personal evolution. Through her clever and delightful writing style, she captivates readers with her intelligence and wit.

The novel delves into themes of independence, education, and the transformative power of literature. Jerusha's insatiable desire to learn and broaden her horizons is truly inspiring, as she embraces every new opportunity that comes her way. Her friendship with her college companion Sally McBride brings an extra layer of depth to the narrative, with the two characters complementing each other beautifully.

One of the standout aspects of "Daddy-Long-Legs" is the evolving relationship between Jerusha and her enigmatic benefactor. Through her letters, we witness her initial gratitude and curiosity, which slowly transforms into affection. The gradual unveiling of his identity adds an element of suspense, keeping readers eager to discover the truth and invested in their connection.

Overall, "Daddy-Long-Legs" is a delightful and exceptionally written novel that explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and love. Jean Webster's storytelling prowess shines through, and her captivating characters make this book a timeless and enjoyable read for individuals of all ages. Whether you are seeking a heartfelt coming-of-age tale or simply looking for a beautifully crafted story, "Daddy-Long-Legs" is sure to leave a lasting impression.

What are readers saying?

"Daddy-Long-Legs" by Jean Webster has received a diverse range of reviews, showcasing a wide array of perspectives on this beloved novel. The story revolves around Judy Abbott, a young orphan girl who is granted a college scholarship by an anonymous benefactor, fondly known as "Daddy-Long-Legs." Let's take a closer look at the summary of these reviews:

1. Heartwarming Tale: Numerous readers found "Daddy-Long-Legs" to be a heartwarming and delightful read. They praised the charming and witty writing style, which added an endearing and engaging quality to the narrative. The use of a series of letters written by Judy, known as the epistolary format, created a personal connection between readers and the protagonist, enabling them to empathize with her journey.

2. Captivating Protagonist: The character of Judy Abbott struck a chord with readers, who found her to be relatable, intelligent, and independent. They appreciated witnessing her personal growth as she navigated the challenges of college life and came into her own. Judy's dynamic personality and strong voice made her a compelling protagonist who garnered the support and allegiance of many readers.

3. Light and Enjoyable Read: Some reviewers relished the book's light and effortless nature. They found it to be a quick and enjoyable read, perfect for unwinding and immersing oneself in a simpler time. The optimistic tone of the story, blended with humor and hope, appealed to those seeking a feel-good book.

4. Outdated and Predictable: Despite the overall positive reception, a subset of readers felt that "Daddy-Long-Legs" was outdated and followed a predictable trajectory. They criticized certain unrealistic elements of the plot and found the characters to lack depth. A few reviewers also mentioned that while the book's charming writing style had its merits, it might not resonate with all readers.

DaddyLongLegs ClassicLiterature EpistolaryNovel