Many of the stories within contain memorable and commonsense examples of acting the right way. Using the beauty of nature as a medium for expression, the author demonstrates the importance of good conduct and living a life by firm principles. While the teachings are simple to grasp, the author lavishes her stories with expressive language and vocabulary, which serves to make the narrations easier to recall, while offering a challenge for younger readers eager to improve their English skills.

Unconstrained by preconceived notions of teaching, Margaret Gatty's fullest talents and instinctive abilities are displayed in these parables. Not content merely with dispensing lessons, the author wants readers to think and appreciate the greatness of the outdoors and the majesty of nature. An overarching lesson in most of these tales is having respect and taking joy in the Earth in which we are born.

Born in England in 1809, Margaret Gatty realized her interests in both writing and the natural world from a young age. In adulthood, she was a notable contributor in the field of marine biology - in the modern day, it is for these parables that she is best remembered.