Jean Webster, born Alice Jane Chandler Webster on July 24, 1876, in Fredonia, New York, was an American author best known for her works such as Daddy-Long-Legs and Dear Enemy. She attended the State University of New York at Fredonia before transferring to Vassar College, where she completed her education. Webster's literary career blossomed in the early 20th century, and she became widely recognized for her humorous and poignant stories, often focusing on themes of independence, love, and societal expectations. Her writing resonated particularly with young readers, and her most famous work, Daddy-Long-Legs, has remained a classic in children's literature.
Jean Webster married Glenn McKinney, and they had one child, Jean Webster McKinney. Unfortunately, Webster's life was cut short when she died from complications following surgery on June 11, 1916, at the age of 39. Throughout her brief career, she made a lasting impact on literature, and her works continue to be appreciated for their wit and insight into the human experience. Her father, Charles L. Webster, was an important influence in her life, and she carried his entrepreneurial spirit in her own work.