Daddy-Long-Legs / Dear Enemy : Book Review

"Daddy-Long-Legs" and its sequel "Dear Enemy" are two novels written by Jean Webster that offer an engaging and heartwarming reading experience.

In "Daddy-Long-Legs," the story follows Jerusha Abbott, an orphan who receives an opportunity to attend college thanks to a mysterious benefactor known as Daddy-Long-Legs. Through a series of letters, Jerusha shares her experiences, thoughts, and growing affection for Daddy-Long-Legs. Jean Webster's writing creates a relatable and endearing character in Jerusha. Her lively and engaging voice, along with her descriptions of college life and her evolving relationship, captivate readers.

In "Dear Enemy," Jean Webster shifts the focus to Sallie McBride, one of Jerusha's college friends who becomes the superintendent of a children's orphanage. The novel explores Sallie's journey as she faces the challenges of reforming the institution and improving the lives of the children in her care. Through humor, social commentary, and a touch of romance, Jean Webster presents the transformation of Sallie as she confronts the realities of her job.

Both novels provide a delightful mix of light-heartedness and deeper themes. Jean Webster's witty and engaging writing style effortlessly draws readers into the lives of the characters. The letters format adds a unique perspective, allowing readers to feel intimately connected to the protagonists as they share their thoughts and experiences.

In conclusion, "Daddy-Long-Legs" and "Dear Enemy" by Jean Webster are captivating novels that explore themes of growth, love, and societal issues. With engaging protagonists and a writing style that balances humor and depth, these books offer an enjoyable reading experience.

What are readers saying?

Jean Webster's literary treasures, "Daddy-Long-Legs" and its sequel "Dear Enemy," have garnered significant praise from readers due to their unique storytelling and valuable themes. The epistolary format of "Daddy-Long-Legs," written in the form of letters, was widely celebrated for its captivating and witty narrative. The protagonist, Jerusha Abbott, captivated readers with her sharp and sarcastic tone as she shares her life story with her mysterious benefactor. This heartwarming and inspirational novel received acclaim for its character development and emotional impact, with many readers particularly enjoying the romantic aspects of the story.

Similarly, "Dear Enemy," the sequel to "Daddy-Long-Legs," continued to receive positive feedback. It follows Judy's college roommate, Sally McBride, as she faces the challenges of running an orphanage. Readers found this book just as engaging and enjoyable as the first, admiring the well-rounded characters and the realistic portrayal of the orphans' struggles. The combination of humor and social commentary in "Dear Enemy" struck a chord with readers, strengthening the overall appeal of the book.

Both novels impressed readers with Jean Webster's deft handling of serious topics, approaching them with sensitivity and thoughtfulness. The exploration of social issues such as women's rights, education, and class disparities resonated with readers. The strong and independent female characters throughout both books were seen as empowering and left a lasting impression on readers.

Overall, Jean Webster's books, "Daddy-Long-Legs" and "Dear Enemy," have received glowing reviews from readers for their engaging writing style, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Whether it was the heartwarming romance in "Daddy-Long-Legs" or the inspiring story of the orphanage in "Dear Enemy," readers found themselves captivated by Webster's storytelling prowess. These novels come highly recommended for those seeking a blend of romance, humor, and social commentary that leaves a lasting impact.