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Philanthropists -- Fiction Books
Best books
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.
Jean Webster
Daddy-Long-Legs
"Daddy-Long-Legs" by Jean Webster is an epistolary novel published in 1912. It follows Jerusha "Judy" Abbott, an orphan sent to college by a mysterious benefactor she has never seen. Through monthly letters addressed to the anonymous "Daddy-Long-Legs," Judy chronicles her transformation from institutionalized orphan to educated young woman. As she navigates college life, friendships, and her dreams of becoming a writer, Judy remains unaware of her benefactor's true identity—a revelation that will ultimately change everything.
Walter Besant
All Sorts and Conditions of Men: An Impossible Story
"All Sorts and Conditions of Men: An Impossible Story" by Walter Besant is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative explores various classes of society as it unfolds around the lives of several key characters, most notably Angela Messenger, a young woman who is the heiress of a brewery and grapples with her identity and responsibilities, and Harry Goslett, a young man navigating his own complicated heritage. The story intricately portrays social themes and the contrasts between the lives of the upper and working classes. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Angela Messenger and her friend Constance at Cambridge, where they discuss the weight of their futures and the impact of their choices on their lives. Angela, wealthy due to her brewery inheritance, expresses a yearning to connect with the working class and improve the lives of those less fortunate. Meanwhile, in a parallel storyline, Harry Goslett learns about his own unknown lineage, the son of a sergeant, and contemplates the implications of returning to his roots. The opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of social class dynamics, aspirations, and what it means to truly belong in a rapidly changing society.
Arthur Conan Doyle
The doings of Raffles Haw
"The Doings of Raffles Haw" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a science fiction novel published in 1891. A mysterious millionaire arrives in Staffordshire with unlimited wealth, having discovered how to turn lead into gold. He sets out to transform the town through generous philanthropy, but his well-intentioned efforts yield unexpected results. When personal betrayal strikes at the heart of his deepest trust, the consequences prove devastating for both the benefactor and his fortune.
Jean Webster
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.
J. W. Keyworth
The Golden Shoemaker or 'Cobbler' Horn
"The Golden Shoemaker" by J. W. Keyworth is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on a cobbler named "Cobbler" Horn, who faces the impending loss of his wife and the challenges that arise from her illness and eventual death. As he attempts to navigate fatherhood while balancing his work and the complications of a new housemate, Aunt Jemima, Horn's character and resilience shine through in a tale that explores themes of family, sacrifice, and the struggles of everyday life. At the start of the book, we witness the emotional turmoil of "Cobbler" Horn as he manages the last moments with his dying wife while diligently working on a pair of boots, illustrating his dedication to both his profession and his family. As his wife passes away and Aunt Jemima enters their lives to care for Horn’s daughter, Marian, the dynamics shift dramatically in the household. Aunt Jemima imposes strict rules on young Marian, leading to conflict and establishing an oppressive environment that contrasts sharply with Horn's gentle nature and desire to foster his child's spirit. This opening sets the stage for a poignant narrative filled with love, struggle, and the complexities of familial obligations.
Arthur Conan Doyle
Kullan voima : $b Kertomus
"Kullan voima: Kertomus" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a story written in the early 20th century. This narrative appears to delve into themes of wealth and its effects on human relationships, as well as the intricacies of personal identity and social class. The characters introduced seem to include the McIntyre family, particularly focusing on siblings Robert and Laura, who face various socio-economic challenges in their lives. The opening of the story sets a somber yet intriguing atmosphere, showing Laura expressing worry about a visitor's arrival due to the inclement weather, while her brother Robert works on an artistic endeavor, hinting at his aspirations. Their father, Mr. McIntyre, painted as a weary man who struggles with past failures, draws attention to the family's precarious financial situation. The beginning captures a moment of impending change, as the family awaits the arrival of Hector Spurling, whose engagement to Laura appears to be crucial to her hopes. As the narrative unfolds, tensions arise over themes of hope, familial duty, and the intersection of romance and personal ambition during challenging times.
Jean Webster
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.
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