Selma Lagerlöf's writing is characterized by its lofty idealism, vivid imagination, and spiritual perception. Drawing deeply from classic Swedish folklore, she infused her magic realist narratives with these elements. Her stories often explore themes of faith, migration, and the lives of ordinary people. Lagerlöf was also a notable figure for her engagement with women's issues and political causes.
Each of these short stories was written specifically for Christmas. They combine concern for social ills with the myths and memories of childhood and traditional Christmas spirit-lore. The stories include "A Christmas Carol", "The Chimes", "The Battle of Life" and "The Cricket on the Hearth".