This anthology traces the historical and cultural evolution of Halloween through a diverse collection of primary source materials. It spans from ancient Celtic myths to early 20th-century writings, incorporating poems, short stories, excerpts from folklore books, a one-act play, and folk tales from Ireland and Scotland, including the first book ever published on the subject. Annotations are provided to make these historical texts accessible to contemporary readers.

This anthology is recognized for its comprehensive approach to the history of Halloween, drawing from a wide array of primary sources. The inclusion of diverse materials, from ancient myths to early 20th-century writings, offers a rich historical perspective. Annotations enhance the accessibility of the original texts for modern readers, making it a valuable resource for those interested in the cultural evolution of the holiday. The collection provides a scholarly yet engaging exploration of Halloween's origins and development.