Daddy Long-Legs

By Jean Webster

Originally published in 1912, this is the story of an orphan who gets the chance at a "real" life. Jerusha Abbott escapes the boredom and overwork of the John Grier Home when a mysterious benefactor supports her dream of attending college.  The only stipulation is that she write and update him with her progress, but never expect him to reply or interact with her.

Jerusha is a free spirited, intelligent girl, and it is fun to read her letters.  She enjoys her new life, but still is grateful  and doesn't take advantage of her sponsor, even though everyone around her is wealthy.  I think that makes her appreciate her life more.