Vadertje Langbeen

by Jean Webster

"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.