These one hundred memories are a journey through time in the Finnish region of Northern Ostrobothnia. They portray the coastal city of Oulu and the surrounding countryside with captivating literary skill and authenticity, bringing the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries to life. The memories include folk tales and historical accounts, social comedy and romantic drama, introducing the reader to the region in all its variety. People from many different layers of society have their own stories to tell: the narrative moves from the delightful parties of the upper classes to the harsh struggles of poor workers.
The book's unique structure, with chapters that jump from one era and genre to another, often gives it the charm of a fairy tale. However, it is always grounded in regional cultures and customs. When people are confronted with dramatic events, such as the war against Russia or the Great Fire of Oulu, the dangers they face are shockingly vivid. A mixture of whimsy and realism, these memories continue to delight readers.