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The King of the Golden City

An Allegory for Children
Book cover: The King of the Golden City
Author(s): 
Mother Mary Loyola
Illustrator(s): 
John Watson Davis
Number of pages: 
120 pages
Copyright: 
1921
ISBN: 
9780976469100
Publisher: 
Little Way Press
Binding: 
Softcover
Sample Pages
Subject(s): 
First Communion
Blessed Sacrament
Sacraments
Review: 

This is a simple, old-fashioned allegory about our relationship with Jesus and our journey to heaven (the "King" and the "Golden City"). The story is about a girl named Dilecta who struggles in the "Land of Exile" to keep her "hut" in order in order to be prepared for the King's visits, keep her "lamp" of peace burning brightly and control "Self", and listen to her "Prince Guardian" who helps to keep her out of the snatches of Malignus.

My daughter (2nd grader) enjoyed listening to the story and figuring out what each part of the story was trying to say in "real life". Sometimes children enjoy this sort of challenge of uncovering ideas that are somewhat hidden - working at the ideas can help to make them more meaningful.

This book covers a great deal of material in a simple manner - children are introduced to basic components of the spiritual life and encouraged to develop a strong relationship with our Lord through the Sacraments and a detachment from the things of this world.

This would make a nice religion supplement for young homeschooled children, but may be less appealing to those who have already been more exposed to today's culture.

Update: Over the years we have returned to this lovely book again and again (especially when we have a child preparing for First Communion) - and were delighted to be introduced to this new full-color edition with lovely old-fashioned illustrations and beautiful, glossy pages.

Perspective: 
Catholic
Reviewed by: 
Alicia Van Hecke
First reviewed: 
3-8-2005

The King's Daughter

Author(s): 
Suzanne Martel
Number of pages: 
231 pages
Copyright: 
1974
Binding: 
Softcover
Subject(s): 
Historical Fiction
Setting: 
17th century
Canada
Grade / Age level: 
Grades 6-8
High School
Review: 
This engaging novel is centered around a young orphan from France, who is married off to a Canadian coureur de bois. The heroine, Jeanne Chatel, is spunky and determined to succeed in the wilds of 17th century Canada. There is considerable Catholic content in the novel. Jeanne is an orphan, and is raised by Catholic nuns in France. She travels to America with Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys, who went on to found schools and chapels, and started the Congregation of Notre Dame in Montreal, Quebec.

The novel has considerable historical content. We see the dangers faced by settlers in New France from Jeanne's eyes, as she struggles with raising her family and enduring the ever-present possibility of an Indian attack. Jeanne's husband is a coureur de bois, and we learn about this unique lifestyle. The book would be thoroughly enjoyed by girls, twelve and up. The author weaves a bit of romance through the story, and this would have high 'girl appeal'. It has an exciting plot, and would enhance any study of early Canadian history.

Perspective: 
Catholic
Reviewed by: 
K.M.
First reviewed: 
1998-99

The King's Shadow

Book cover: 'The King's Shadow'
Author(s): 
Elizabeth Alder
Number of pages: 
272 pages
Copyright: 
1995
Publisher: 
Bantam Doubleday Dell
Binding: 
Softcover
Subject(s): 
Historical Fiction
Setting: 
11th century
Review: 
The King's Shadow is a story of a welsh serf, Evyn, who dreams of becoming a storyteller. In retaliation for his uncle's crime, however, Evyn has his tongue cut out, thus shattering his dreams to become a storyteller. Evyn is then sold to the king's wife, and eventually becomes the king's squire and then his foster son.

The book is set in the 11th century, shortly before the Battle of Hastings. It gives accurate details of King Harold's life, and the life of English nobility of the time. It would be a wonderful complement to a history unit on the Middle Ages.

The King's Shadow is an excellent work of historical fiction, recommended for ages 10 and up. It has great "boy appeal" because of the battle scenes, adventures, intrigue, and the profusion of male characters. Not recommended for a read aloud.

Reviewed by: 
M.H.
First reviewed: 
7-25-2000

The Kitchen Madonna

Author(s): 
Rumer Godden
Number of pages: 
103 pages
Copyright: 
1967
Publisher: 
Bethlehem Books
Binding: 
Sewn Hardcover
Subject(s): 
Miscellaneous Fiction
Grade / Age level: 
High School
Elementary
Review: 
This is a simple, lovely work, of fine literary quality, about a thoroughly modern brother and sister and their blunt Ukrainian maid, who feels out-of-place in London and misses having a "good place" in the kitchen. A good place, according to Marta is something like this: "In my home, Ukrainian home, we make a good place...A place on top of cupboard, perhaps, or perhaps on shelf. Little place but it holy because we keep there Our Lady and Holy Child." When questioned by the children, she explained further. It wasn't a statue and not a picture. "Like picture but more beautiful. They in our churches too. Pictures, but prickled with gold."

The children wrap themselves up in the quest of finding a kitchen Madonna for their Marta. I shouldn't really tell you much more. It's a short story, though not really a kids story; a story for everyone. Very sadly, it is out of print; but it's well-worth your own quest. :)

UPDATE: This has just been reprinted in a lovely, newly-illustrated hardcover edition by Bethlehem Books. Highly recommended!
Perspective: 
Catholic
Reviewed by: 
Alicia Van Hecke
First reviewed: 
10-23-06/ 2-16-10

The Lady of Guadalupe

Book cover: The Lady of Guadalupe
Author(s): 
Tomie dePaola
Number of pages: 
44 pages
Copyright: 
1980
ISBN: 
9780823403738
Publisher: 
Holiday House
Binding: 
Sewn Hardcover
Subject(s): 
The Blessed Mother
Guadalupe
Grade / Age level: 
Preschool
Elementary
Resource Type: 
Picture Books
Review: 

This has been one of my family's very favorite picture books since our oldest was a toddler. It is a beautiful re-telling of a beautiful story with illustrations that complement it nicely and which are very appealing to children. I especially like Tomie de Paola's attention to detail. It's informative enough to be interesting even for adults.

The story tells of Mary's apparitions to an Indian convert, Juan Diego, in Mexico, in 1531. She asked Juan Diego to tell the bishop that she wished a church to be built. On his second visit, the bishop asked Juan to ask "the lady" for a sign. Mary sends Juan back to the bishop with fresh cut roses - even though it's the middle of December. When Juan opens his tilma (like a cloak) to show the roses to the bishop, they discover that Our Lady's image has been miraculously imprinted on his tilma. This tilma has remained intact and is displayed even today in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

The author also avoids some of the mistakes and biases often present in renditions of the story. By explaining how the Bishop interrogated Juan Diego and carefully recorded all the details, the author makes it clear that this story is not a legend, but an actual occurence. (A note following the story also gives information about the miraculous condition of the tilma today - which is amazingly intact after more than 400 years.) The author also seems to have avoided any politically correct bias. I was particularly impressed with his portrayal of the bishop who was a very holy man with a genuine concern for all the people of Mexico.

Perspective: 
Catholic
Reviewed by: 
Alicia Van Hecke
First reviewed: 
1998-99

The Lances of Lynwood

Author(s): 
Charlotte M. Yonge
Number of pages: 
264 pages
Publisher: 
Lepanto Press
Binding: 
Sewn Hardcover
Subject(s): 
Historical Fiction
Setting: 
14th century
Grade / Age level: 
Grades 3-5
Grades 6-8
Review: 
"Virtue Conquers" is the theme of this charming, wholesome adventure story set in the Middle Ages, during the reign of Edward III of England. Eustace, the scholarly but valiant brother-in-law of Sir Reginald Lynwood, goes as his squire to Spain under the banner of the English sovereign. In his first battle, he loses his brother-in-law but gains a knight's spurs for his courage. His future looks very bright, but soon his prospects sour through no fault of his own, as he runs afoul of an unscrupulous kinsman who is trying to abduct his nephew Arthur, the heir to the earldom, in order to control his inheritance. Suspicion, rumors of wizardry, and attempts on his life now replace the earlier praise and honor, and how he confronts injustice and preserves his nephew's safety makes an interesting read full of chivalry and adventure.

This book might be enjoyed by children who are fans of the historical books of G.A. Henty - it has the same historical detail and the same kind of noble, virtuous protagonist -- but has the added benefit of being thoroughly Catholic. The reading level is probably best suited for ten to fourteen year olds, but there is nothing in its content which would make it unsuitable for even much younger children.

The Lances of Lynwood is part of the Knights and Ladies line recently reprinted by Lepanto Press, and is handsomely bound in a hard cover.

Perspective: 
Catholic
Additional notes: 

This book was donated for review by Lepanto Press.

Reviewed by: 
Willa Ryan
First reviewed: 
1998-99

The Lark on the Wing

Author(s): 
Elfrida Vipont
Illustrator(s): 
T. R. Freeman
Copyright: 
2008
Publisher: 
Bethlehem Books
Setting: 
20th century
Europe
Grade / Age level: 
High School
Review: 
Set during the late 1940’s, The Lark on the Wing is the story of a young woman on the brink of a new career. Seventeen-year-old Kit desires with all her heart to sing professionally, but one obstacle after another pops up in her way. Will she be able to overcome all these obstacles to fulfill her life’s dream? The Lark on the Wing captures the doubts, the excitement, and the energy of young people on the brink of adulthood with a world of myriad choices before them, including young love. The plot is fast-paced, effortlessly moving from one scene to the next. With a variety of personalities, it is also a story about relationships. Using the popular idiomatic language of the 1940's, we travel back into time as the characters express their thoughts, emotions, and favorite pastimes. The Lark on the Wing also presents a realistic picture of love, with all the emotional ups and downs, without the modern day garbage. In other words, people have real relationships. Sometimes they work out. Sometimes they don’t. People don’t always say or do the right thing at the right time. As Kit grows and matures, she must decide what a serious relationship involves. With all the intense emotions swirling about, it is also a story about virtue, building up patience, kindness, and forbearance. How will Kit react to those around her, the person who goads her to do something she shouldn’t do or thwarts her plans or good intentions through power or money? The Lark on the Wing also provides an interesting peek into Quaker life during the 1940’s, presenting them as an active, vibrant, socially conscious group, breaking the stereotype of a quiet and serious people. Along the way, we meet some unusual characters. Since Kit is studying music, for the reader seriously interested in music, there is a lot of wisdom to be learned. Even though she is learning about voice, much of her teacher’s advice could apply to other instruments. For the person who thinks singing is merely picking up a piece of music, the author clarifies the importance of training. For the young person, trying to make sense out of life, Kit offers a realistic picture of a young woman who is faced with numerous obstacles, yet perseveres in her life’s dream. A lovely young girl with sweetness and charm, searching to find her own way, Kit learns to ignore the voices of discouragement and laziness and forge her own path among the confusing voices. Will her perseverance pay off? Will she finally achieve her life's dreams? Immensely enjoyable, The Lark on the Wing is highly recommended!
Additional notes: 
The Lark on the Wing is a sequel to The Lark in the Morn.
Reviewed by: 
Elizabeth Yank
First reviewed: 
10-5-2008

The Last Crusader: Isabella of Spain

Book cover: 'The Last Crusader: Isabella of Spain'
Author(s): 
William Thomas Walsh
Number of pages: 
515 pages
Copyright: 
1930
Publisher: 
TAN Books and Publishers
Binding: 
Softcover
Sample Pages
Subject(s): 
Biographies
Setting: 
15th century
Grade / Age level: 
Adults
Mature Teens
Review: 

Queen Isabella (the Catholic) of Spain is one of the most influential and controversial women in history. She and her husband were responsible for supporting Columbus' voyages to the New World, the re-conquering of all of Spain from the Moors, the expulsion of the Jews, and the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition. Her daughter, Catherine of Aragon, was the unfortunate first wife of King Henry VIII of England (who founded the Anglican church because he didn't accept the Pope's refusal to grant him an annulment of his marriage to Catherine). The story is fast-paced and gripping (as well as complex), but also very sad and even disturbing at times. It's an important period of history for Catholic to understand as many aspects of this story are frequently used to attack the Church. Reading the whole story will also dispel some common myths about history in general - particularly ones that try to make blanket statements about history and assumptions that as history progresses things always get worse. Recommended for upper high school or adult.

This book mentions at least one disturbing story of violence against a child that appears to follow the pattern of anti-Jewish myths debunked by the Church as early as Gregory X's document of 1272 on "Papal Protection of the Jews". The document can be found here: http://www.ewtn.com/library/PAPALDOC/G10JPROT.HTM In addition to reading this document (which particularly highlights problems with Christian violence against the Jews), further discussion and research are recommended on this topic.

Perspective: 
Catholic
Reviewed by: 
Alicia Van Hecke
First reviewed: 
3-25-2000

The Last Lecture

Author(s): 
Randy Pausch
Jeffrey Zaslow
Number of pages: 
206 pages
Copyright: 
2008
Publisher: 
Hyperion
Binding: 
Glued Hardcover
Subject(s): 
Autobiography
Grade / Age level: 
High School
Adults
Review: 
What would you do if you knew you were going to die? For most of us, that is a reality that we push to the back of our minds as someday, but not soon. In the case of Randy Pausch, that reality came much sooner than he expected with a diagnosis of terminal, pancreatic cancer. In The Last Lecture, Randy Pausch, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon, shares the PowerPoint presentation he gave as his last lecture on September 18, 2007. Besides the salient points and accompanying stories from his lecture, The Last Lecture includes much more. Not in the least maudlin, The Last Lecture is a book about daring to dream the impossible and achieving those dreams. It is a book of hope and inspiration. He opens the story with the reasons that motivated him to consider this last lecture, then delves back into the past to show the many influences on his life’s journey, especially his remarkable, loving parents, mentors, teachers, or coaches who profoundly influenced his life. Each chapter is short and to the point. While it would be easy, as with any autobiography, to fall into the trap of naval gazing, it is a refreshingly honest portrait of his life and life’s situation, his strengths and human failings. In a world filled with negative news, it is uplifting to read his genuine love and admiration for his parents and those who encouraged him along the way, as well as had the honesty to point out his faults, so that he could become a better person. The book is broken down into five sections: The story behind the last lecture, achieving his dreams, the lessons he learned, enabling the dreams of others, “It’s about How to Live Your Life,” and closing thoughts. With humor, wit, and common sense, Pausch relates his quest for happiness through achieving his childhood dreams. Over the years, he has gained much wisdom, from his parents, mentors, teachers, and students. His advice as a teacher can be applied to many situations. In The Last Lecture, he shares this legacy of memories, hopes, and advice for his three young children to see someday. As a teacher, he wanted to continue to teach them long after he was not with them; the result was this inspiring lecture about the joy of life; each day is a gift. Incredibly uplifting, full of hope and inspiration! Thank you, Randy for sharing your story. Thank you, Jai for sharing Randy during your precious time together. Randy Pausch died on July 25, 2008.
Quibble:
Because this is a secular book with a few adult issues, the parent will want to read and discuss this with their teenage children. If you choose to view the lecture on YouTube, since the lecture is prepared for college-age students, the parents may want to preview it to determine the appropriate age of the children who are viewing it because of some language.
Perspective: 
Secular
Additional notes: 

His last lecture can be viewed on YouTube: Randy Pausch The Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dreams.

In order to appeal to a wider audience, he avoids how his faith played a role in the development of his character.

Reviewed by: 
Elizabeth Yank
First reviewed: 
8-29-2008

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