While Miss Hickory may not feature the swashbuckling adventures or magically gifted characters that have dominated fantasy literature in more recent decades, its enduring appeal lies in its authentic voice and captivating illustrations. Unique among the author’s seventy-eight publications, this book remains the most celebrated, drawing readers into a world where toys are not merely inanimate objects but protagonists with distinct personalities.

What sets Miss Hickory apart from other stories featuring animated toys, such as Carlo Collodi’s The Adventures of Pinocchio and Margery Williams’ The Velveteen Rabbit, is its unconventional narrative arc. In contrast to Pinocchio and the Velveteen Rabbit, who yearn for and ultimately achieve transformation into "real" beings, Miss Hickory embraces her identity as a toy. Her journey does not culminate in physical transformation but in a profound sense of self-acceptance and inward completeness. This narrative choice stands in stark contrast to the often anguished quest for realism seen in other classic tales, presenting a toy character who is content and sufficient in her own existence.

In addition to its unique narrative approach, Miss Hickory played a significant role in shaping a distinct character type within children’s literature: the "intelligent spinster." This archetype began with P. L. Travers' Mary Poppins and evolved with characters such as Ellen MacGregor’s Miss Pickerell and Betty MacDonald’s Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle. These characters share common traits of maturity, self-sufficiency, and intelligence, offering an alternative narrative to traditional depictions of women in children’s stories. Through its portrayal of Miss Hickory, the book not only contributed to this literary tradition but also expanded the possibilities for female characters in children’s literature.