The King of the Golden City is an allegorical tale which has stood the test of time because of the beauty of its symbolism and the richness of its spiritual advice.  Written for children yet beloved by all, the only complaint lodged against it has been that its main character is female, leaving many boys to feel that this tale is better suited for girls.

Encouraged by the original French translators of this book, who created parallel editions for boys and girls, we have now remedied this single fault!

In this brand new edition adapted especially for boys, readers will find the tale of Dilectus and his friends every bit as charming and instructive as before–and now boys as well as girls will find it easy to become the hero of the story and make it their own!

Mother Mary Loyola (1845–1930) was an English nun and gifted writer best known for her clear, heartfelt catechetical works for children. Among her most beloved books is The King of the Golden City, first published in 1921. Written as an allegory, it tells the story of a young girl named Dilecta who is invited by the King to prepare herself for life in His radiant Golden City. The tale is simple enough for children, yet profound enough to inspire adults, weaving together themes of grace, temptation, perseverance, and the reward of eternal life.

The book’s strength lies in how it presents the Catholic faith in an engaging, story-like way rather than in dry instruction. Many Irish and English schools once used it to prepare children for First Communion. Even today, it remains a treasured resource for families who want to pass on the beauty of faith in a way that captures both the imagination and the heart.

This special edition for boys makes the main character a boy–and appeals to the interests and likes of our Catholic youth today.