Daddy-Long-Legs: The Book

After yesterday's post with the picture of the daddy-long-legs, I began thinking of the book -- a favorite from my childhood. There was a copy, published in 1912, among my grandmother's books and I immediately fell in love with Jerusha (soon to become Judy) Abbot, the plucky orphan from the grim John Grier Home for Orphans. I read that original copy (published 1912) to pieces and now have one -- a library discard -- that should last through quite a few more re-reads.




Maybe you know the story -- it's been made into a movie several times. Judy is chosen by an unknown trustee to receive a college scholarship. The book consists of her letters to this unknown benefactor who has required that she write him weekly, addressing the letters to 'Mr. Smith.' The irrepressible Judy soon begins calling him Daddy-Long-Legs and writing him almost daily. The book is epistolary -- aside from a brief introductory chapter, it's totally made up of Judy's letters.

It's a wonderful look at life in a women's college at the turn of the previous century. And Judy, having spent her life in an orphan's home, is an astute observer. Plus there are all her funny little drawings. And a great happy ending.

A few years ago, browsing through a used book store, I found there was a sequel. Oh joy unexpected!

In Dear Enemy -- which is also made up of letters -- Sallie McBride, Judy's best friend from college, takes over the management of the John Grier Home, turning it from grim to up-to-date, humane, and cheerful. And there's a dour Scots physician (the dear enemy to whom Sallie's letters are addressed) for a romantic interest.

It's another fun read and a look at the latest social engineering theories of 1915 (some of which are a little scary today.) But the overall tone is good-hearted and watching Sallie turn a drab institution full of somber orphans into a brightly painted home crowded with noisy, laughing, happy children is a delight.