I admit—I approached this book with my fair share of trepidation. After listening to the audiobook of Phantastes last year, and struggling to get anything out of it (or even figure out what the plot was supposed to be!), I despaired of finding a George MacDonald book I’d enjoy. I’m thankful for the way reading challenges push me outside of my comfort zone, though, because otherwise, I may never have picked this story up.

I did find the start of this book somewhat slow. I struggled to connect with the characters, and couldn’t decide whether I even liked the Wise Woman—was she supposed to be likeable? Once I realized what she could do and what she was doing, however, I got sucked into the story…and then the next…and the next. Each of the four stories in this book are unique, but each are tiny portraits of God’s relationship with us, and most have allegorical elements. As someone who has loved allegory from the time I was a young child, I loved that.

Overall, I wouldn’t be surprised if I pick this book up again someday. I ended up loving it, and I know my reading life has been enriched by the experience. These are the kinds of stories you have to read multiple times to “get” all the different levels of meaning, and it’s good for the soul to come across books like that occasionally. If you enjoy classical works but have never picked up any of MacDonald’s writings, I’d recommend you check this out. ( )

The wise woman -- Little daylight -- Cross purposes -- The castle ( )

I love the wise woman stories. But you are getting something like a moralistic fairy tale, so be prepared. ( )

A nice collection of George MacDonald's shorter works. Some of the stories struck me as a bit preachy, but all are told with wit, charm, and grace. It's easy to see why he was such an influence on writers like C.S. Lewis. ( )