This collection investigates the humanity of historical saints, questioning how individuals of profound faith navigated the practical and social realities of their respective eras. Phyllis McGinley, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, utilizes her keen observational skills to strip away the hagiographic veneer often applied to religious figures. By examining these individuals as complex, fallible, and often witty people, she constructs a framework that highlights the intersection of spiritual devotion and earthly pragmatism.

The work is regarded as a sophisticated and accessible exploration of religious history that prioritizes the human element over purely theological discourse. The writing style reflects McGinley's background as a poet, offering a nuanced and observant perspective on the lives of these historical figures.