Author
Jean Webster
1876-1916
Jean Webster (1876-1916) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Jean Webster
Daddy-Long-Legs
"Daddy-Long-Legs" by Jean Webster is an epistolary novel published in 1912. It follows Jerusha "Judy" Abbott, a spirited orphan sent to college by a mysterious benefactor she has never met. Through monthly letters addressed to the anonymous "Mr. John Smith," Judy chronicles her journey from institutional life to higher education, discovering friendship, culture, and self-discovery. As she transforms from orphan to aspiring writer, the identity of her tall, shadowy patron—whom she playfully calls Daddy-Long-Legs—remains tantalizingly unknown.
Dear Enemy
"Dear Enemy" by Jean Webster is a novel published in 1915 as the sequel to "Daddy-Long-Legs." Told through letters, it follows Sallie McBride as she transforms from a frivolous socialite into the superintendent of an orphanage. She navigates daily challenges, reforms outdated practices, and develops complicated relationships with two very different men—a wealthy politician and the orphanage's embittered Scottish doctor. The story explores women's work, orphan care, and the choices that shape a meaningful life.
Daddy Long-Legs : $b A comedy in four acts
"Daddy Long-Legs: A Comedy in Four Acts" by Jean Webster is a stage play written in the early 20th century. This work is a comedic drama centered on the life of a spirited orphan named Judy Abbott and her unexpected benefactor. The play explores themes of social class, philanthropy, and personal transformation as Judy's fortunes change through education and mysterious support. Key characters include the orphan Judy, the stern Mrs. Lippett, kind-hearted Miss Pritchard, and Jervis Pendleton, a trustee with a hidden interest in Judy's future. The opening of the play introduces the audience to the John Grier Home orphanage, its somber and restrictive environment, and the daily struggles of the children—most notably, Judy Abbott. Judy stands out as intelligent, rebellious, and full of life, in contrast to the institution's rigid order. During the chaos of Trustees’ Day, Judy’s actions and fiery spirit draw the attention and criticism of the adults, but also the notice of Mr. Pendleton, who is convinced—after a passionate outburst from Judy—to fund her college education anonymously. The act ends with Judy’s elation at her new opportunity and her creation of the nickname "Daddy Long-Legs" for her mysterious patron, setting the stage for her journey beyond the orphanage.
The Wheat Princess
"The Wheat Princess" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an American family, the Copleys, and their experiences as they spend a summer in an Italian villa, highlighting themes of wealth, privilege, and social responsibility. The main character, Marcia Copley, is introduced as the charming and spirited daughter of a millionaire wheat magnate, navigating her new life amidst the historical and picturesque backdrop of Castel Vivalanti. At the start of the story, we find Marcia and her aunt arriving at a tea gathering, where she is referred to as "the Wheat Princess" due to her family background. The discussions among the guests reveal the social dynamics and perceptions surrounding Marcia, especially in relation to her wealth and potential marriage prospects. We learn about her family's philanthropic efforts leads to mixed feelings among the attendees. The dialogue vividly sets the stage for the contrast between the Copleys' American millionaire lifestyle and the traditional Italian society they are entering, all while hinting at the complexities of identity, cultural expectations, and personal aspirations that are to unfold as Marcia adapts to her new environment.
Much Ado About Peter
"Much Ado About Peter" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story unfolds in a lively setting, focusing on the humorous and romantic entanglements of Peter Malone, the head groom at the Willowbrook estate, as he navigates his relationships with the staff and the new arrivals, particularly a charming maid named Annie O'Reilly. The narrative is anticipated to blend wit, character dynamics, and perhaps some social commentary, highlighting themes of ambition, love, and the intricacies of life below the upper-class surface. The opening of the novel introduces Peter and his fellow grooms, Billy and Joe, as they go about their daily routines in the carriage house. When Mrs. Carter assigns Peter and Billy to pick up a new maid from the train, an air of competition and tension develops between the two grooms, both vying for the maid's affection. This rivalry and Peter's daydreams about a romantic connection with the maid set the stage for humorous misunderstandings and challenges. Meanwhile, the arrival of the new maid hints at transformative changes to the established order at Willowbrook, suggesting that comedic misadventures rooted in class dynamics and personal aspirations are at play.
When Patty Went to College
"When Patty Went to College" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Patty Wyatt, an imaginative and resourceful college student navigating her life at a women's college. The narrative explores her charmingly chaotic experiences as she confronts college life, decorates her dorm room, and interacts with various classmates, while interspersing humor and social commentary. The opening of the novel introduces Patty and her roommate Priscilla as they struggle with the chaotic task of setting up their dorm room. Patty's vibrant personality shines through as she enlists the help of fellow students, engages in witty banter, and devises plans for decorating in defiance of the school's rules. The scene highlights Patty's creativity, determination, and her ability to charm those around her, including the imposing janitor, Peters. As she grapples with college life and establishes her identity, the groundwork is laid for many humorous escapades and entertaining interactions that are sure to follow, making this a delightful read for anyone interested in college tales filled with wit and character.
Just Patty
"Just Patty" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work centers around a spirited schoolgirl named Patty Wyatt, focusing on her lively interactions with friends and teachers as they navigate their boarding school life. Themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the humorous challenges of adolescence permeate the story, engaging readers with its lighthearted and whimsical tone. The opening of "Just Patty" introduces us to Patty and her friends as they express their dismay over being separated from their long-time roommates at St. Ursula’s School. Their colorful personalities shine through as Patty, Conny, and Priscilla discuss their new roommates, whom they view with a mix of skepticism and comical intrigue. Patty specifically tells tales about her new roommate, Mae Mertelle, revealing Patty's irreverent humor and her determination to bring about a "reformation" within the school. As the girls plot to influence their new companions, the stage is set for a series of humorous adventures that promise to explore the complex dynamics of friendship and the challenges of adolescent societal norms.
The Four-Pools Mystery
"The Four-Pools Mystery" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young lawyer named Arnold Crosby, who becomes embroiled in the peculiar happenings at the Four-Pools Plantation, including the appearance of a ghost and a series of mysterious thefts. Central to the narrative is Radnor Gaylord, the plantation owner's son, whose reckless behavior and connections to the escalating supernatural occurrences draw Arnold into a web of family secrets and intrigue. The opening of the novel introduces Arnold Crosby, who is recently exhausted from a challenging forgery case when he decides to visit the Four-Pools Plantation to recuperate. Upon arriving, he is introduced to Radnor Gaylord, who despite his charm, has a somewhat checkered reputation in the community. As Arnold seeks to reconnect with his Southern roots, he is quickly swept into the plantation's mysteries involving ghostly apparitions and the theft of valuable bonds from a safe. With hints of familial tensions and the potential for scandal looming over Radnor, the stage is set for a blend of humor, mystery, and the exploration of personal integrity amid the backdrop of Southern culture.
Vadertje Langbeen
"Vadertje Langbeen" by Jean Webster is a novel published in 1912. It tells the story of Jerusha "Judy" Abbott, an orphan sent to college by a mysterious benefactor she has never met. Through monthly letters to her anonymous patron—whom she nicknames Daddy-Long-Legs after glimpsing his tall shadow—Judy chronicles her journey of education, friendship, and self-discovery. As she transforms from a sheltered orphanage girl into an aspiring writer, Judy must navigate college life, new relationships, and eventually uncover the surprising identity of her generous supporter.
Jerry
"Jerry" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is likely set in Italy and follows the adventures of Jerymn Hilliard, Jr., an American character who finds himself bored during his stay at the Hotel du Lac in Valedolmo. The plot revolves around his encounters with a variety of characters, including Gustavo, an eager waiter, and Constance Wilder, a young American woman who adds a romantic and adventurous twist to his stay. The opening portion of "Jerry" introduces us to Jerymn Hilliard, Jr., who is impatiently awaiting his family while feeling the weight of solitude during a long stay in an otherwise picturesque Italian town. He engages in witty conversation with Gustavo, the hotel's head waiter, who informs him of another American family in the area. Intrigued, Jerymn expresses his desire for diversion, which leads him to pursue an acquaintance with the beautiful and lively Constance Wilder, who is staying nearby. Their meeting sets the stage for light-hearted romantic tension, filled with comedic misunderstandings and observations about life, culture, and the nuances of human relationships.
Het "John Grier Home"
"Het 'John Grier Home'" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Sallie McBride, who unexpectedly finds herself becoming the head of an orphanage called the John Grier Home, much to her surprise and dismay. Filled with comic elements and a unique perspective on social responsibility, the book explores themes of care, growth, and the heartwarming challenges of managing a group of children who have faced abandonment." The opening of the novel introduces the protagonist, Sallie McBride, who receives an unexpected request from her friend Judy to take on the role of directress at the John Grier Home, an institution for orphans. Initially incredulous and resistant to this new responsibility, Sallie employs humor to express her concerns about managing the needs of a hundred children. As Sallie arrives at the orphanage during a snowstorm, she recalls the frustrations and uncertainties accompanying her new role, including the dreary living conditions she observes. The initial chapters set the stage for Sallie's evolution as she faces the challenges of bringing warmth and betterment to the children’s lives while navigating her own personal struggles and the skepticism of those around her.
Jerry Junior
"Jerry Junior" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Jerymn Hilliard Jr., a young American man who finds himself in the charming yet uneventful Italian village of Valedolmo as he waits for his family to arrive. The narrative dives into his interactions with the locals, particularly the whimsical and picturesque situations that arise from his attempts to alleviate his boredom in a peaceful, rural setting. At the start of the book, the protagonist is introduced in a leisurely hotel courtyard where he is awaiting a letter from his sister. Despite his somewhat languid demeanor, Hilliard displays a sharp sense of humor, engaging in banter with the head waiter, Gustavo. The dialogue sets the tone for the novel, hinting at a blend of comedic and romantic developments as Hilliard learns about the American family, specifically Constance, living nearby. As he discovers his feelings of solitude in the village, the stage is set for possible romantic entanglements, foreshadowing the delightful adventures that await him in his search for companionship and excitement.
Setä Pitkäsääri
"Setä Pitkäsääri" by Jean Webster is an epistolary novel published in 1912. Jerusha "Judy" Abbott leaves her dreary orphanage life when a mysterious benefactor sends her to college. She must write monthly letters to this unseen patron—whom she nicknames Daddy-Long-Legs after glimpsing his tall shadow—but will never receive replies. Through her illustrated letters, Judy chronicles her transformation as she gains education, friendship, and independence, all while wondering about the identity of her generous, enigmatic sponsor.
Paras vihollinen "Setä Pitkäsäären" jatkoa
"Paras vihollinen" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is a sequel to "Setä Pitkäsäären" and follows the adventures of its main character, Sallie McBride, as she takes on the challenge of managing the John Grier Home, an orphanage. The narrative unfolds through letters, allowing readers to explore Sallie's humorous and insightful observations about her new role and the children in her care. At the start of the novel, Sallie expresses her incredulity at being appointed director of the orphanage, feeling completely unprepared for the task. The opening letters capture her experiences during a winter arrival at John Grier Home and her initial impressions of the dreary environment and the children. She humorously relates her struggles to adapt while highlighting the stark differences between her former social life and the responsibilities she now faces. As she gets acquainted with her surroundings, her determination to improve the lives of the orphans becomes apparent, revealing her character's warmth, wit, and a desire to create a nurturing atmosphere despite the challenges ahead.
Vehnäprinsessa
"Vehnäprinsessa" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set primarily in Italy and revolves around the life of Marcia Copley, the daughter of an American millionaire who is spending her summer in an Italian villa. The novel explores themes of wealth, desire, and cultural contrasts as Marcia navigates her new surroundings and interacts with various characters, including her aristocratic neighbors. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to the idyllic setting of Castel Vivalanti, with a rich history of its own, where Marcia and her family are planning to spend their summer. In the opening scenes, Marcia arrives at a social gathering filled with diplomats and artists, where she draws attention for her beauty and her status as the wheat king’s daughter. As conversations unfold, Marcia's interactions hint at her complex personality, balancing confidence with a degree of naivety about her surroundings and the people within them. The social dynamics at play are established early on, showcasing the blend of admiration and judgment that wealth can evoke in both the characters and the society they inhabit.
Patty ja Priscilla
"Patty ja Priscilla" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story follows two college students, Patty and Priscilla, as they navigate their new experiences in a women's institution, encountering both the challenges of academic life and the intricacies of friendship. The novel is likely to explore themes of youthful ambition, friendship, and the humorous side of college life through the interactions and adventures of its main characters. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Patty, who demonstrates her spirited and rebellious nature as she seeks to redecorate her shared room without asking for permission from the strict dormitory overseer, Peters. Alongside her less daring friend Priscilla, Patty’s creative ideas lead to comical situations as they try to make their environment more vibrant, showing their contrasting personalities. The opening also sets the stage for the dynamic between the girls and other students as they prepare for life at college, fill their room with uniquely colorful and mismatched furnishings, and engage in playful banter with each other and new acquaintances.