Daddy-Long-Legs : Book Review

"Daddy-Long-Legs" by Jean Webster is a heartwarming and captivating novel that follows the journey of Jerusha Abbott, an orphan who receives a life-changing opportunity to attend college thanks to an anonymous benefactor. The story is told through a series of letters written by Jerusha, depicting her growth and transformation as she navigates her new life.

Jerusha, or Judy as she is affectionately called, initially has a sheltered and limited perspective on the world. However, her letters reveal her evolving understanding and her desire for independence and self-discovery. She expresses her gratitude to Daddy-Long-Legs, who remains a mysterious figure throughout the story, and shares her dreams, ambitions, and observations about life and society in a witty and insightful manner.

What makes this story truly captivating is Jerusha's transformation from a naive orphan to a confident young woman. Through her experiences at college and her interactions with her fellow students, Judy discovers her own voice and identity. Her humorous and perceptive observations provide a delightful touch to the narrative, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The bond between Jerusha and Daddy-Long-Legs forms the emotional core of the novel. Despite never meeting face-to-face, their connection deepens through their exchanged letters. Daddy-Long-Legs serves as both mentor and confidante to Judy, guiding her through challenges and encouraging her to pursue her dreams and passions.

Through Jerusha's character, Jean Webster also touches upon important social issues of the time, such as women's rights and societal expectations. Judy questions the limitations imposed on women and the importance of education and independent thinking. Her story challenges traditional gender roles and highlights the need for women to have equal opportunities.

What are readers saying?

Jean Webster's novel "Daddy-Long-Legs" has garnered positive reviews from readers on Goodreads, who have found it to be a heartwarming and engaging story. The book revolves around the young and talented Jerusha Abbott, who receives a scholarship to attend college from an anonymous benefactor known as Daddy-Long-Legs.

Many readers have praised the novel's unique format, which consists entirely of letters written by Jerusha to her mysterious sponsor. They have found this approach to be captivating and have appreciated the intimate and personal perspective it provides. The letters allow readers to form a close bond with Jerusha, making the story feel more personal and endearing.

The character development in "Daddy-Long-Legs" has been highly lauded by reviewers. They have admired how Jerusha's growth and maturity are portrayed throughout the novel. Her wit, intelligence, and determination have resonated with readers, and they have found her to be a relatable and likable protagonist. The supporting characters in the story have also been well-received for their well-roundedness and their ability to add depth to the narrative.

Many readers have thoroughly enjoyed the evolving relationship between Jerusha and her benefactor. They have appreciated the gradual reveal of Daddy-Long-Legs' identity and have found the correspondence between the two characters to be heartwarming. The elements of romance and mystery woven into the story have added an extra layer of intrigue and enjoyment for reviewers.

The themes explored in "Daddy-Long-Legs" have struck a chord with readers. They have appreciated the novel's focus on education, women's rights, and social issues. Many have found the story to be inspiring and empowering, as it highlights the importance of education and self-discovery. Reviewers have also commended the book for its ability to balance serious topics with lighter moments and humor.

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