Some critics and fans regard this short comic novel as one of the most accomplished—and underrated—of G. K. Chesterton's works. A windy storm hits London and blows in "holy fool" Innocent Brown, one of the most interesting and memorable literary characters of the twentieth century. On the first day of his arrival, he creates happiness and fortuitous outcomes for all of those around him. But soon afterwards, it's revealed that he's a scoundrel and a crook.