The series premiered in 1945.

The title characters are two orphants, who stick together and travel to various places, where they solve intriguing mysteries and crimes. Suske (diminutive Flemish for Francis) is a smart, brave, and caring boy, while Wiske (diminutive Flemish for Louise) is a strongheaded, impulsive, and curious girl. Their combined characteristics lay down the fundament for numerous exciting adventures that also take place outside their Belgian habitat.

Much to Vandersteen's amazement the editor initially titled the series Rikki en Wiske, but the idea was soon abandoned.