Around the year 1890, a rather extraordinary nun began writing a very extraordinary book: one that would help children prepare for the Sacrament of Holy Eucharist. It would revolutionize children's catechesis by making the teachings of the Catholic Church both accessible and appealing, and in just over 10 years, its popularity would make her one of the best-known and best-loved Catholic authors of her time, with over two dozen works for both children and adults to her name. Mother Mary Loyola's work has been reintroduced to a new generation through her book The King of the Golden City, and now modern readers can access the brilliant and engaging works upon which she drew to write that book, especially the one that started it all: First Communion. This brand new, newly typeset version is dedicated to Mother Loyola in gratitude for her tireless efforts and the fruit they have borne in the lives of countless Catholics the world over.
In a contemporary review of this book, The Rosary Magazine said, "This book is intended to prepare children for First Communion by giving them an insight into our Lord's life and mission on earth. Its aim is to fill the heart of the child with a true and earnest love for our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament, a strong love which the struggles of later life will not weaken, a love which cannot be inspired by the dry, dogmatic facts of the catechism...Although written for children, it is not childish, and persons of any age will find it interesting and profitable reading, and especially suited as a preparation for Holy Communion"
