The Story of Mahajanaka was released at a time when the Thai economy was hard hit by crisis. It is hailed for the spiritual consolation it offered to Kingdom and its people during exceedingly difficult times.Originally translated into English by His Majesty from the Holy Tripitaka, the story celebrates the value of perseverance as demonstrated by the protagonist, King Mahajanaka. Thai scholars and social thinkers point out that the book is the perfect allegory for the King�s oft-repeated emphasis on the values of self-reliance, wisdom, and virtue as guidelines for living. Indeed, in the preface of the book, His Majesty expresses his desire that it serve as �an object of constructive contemplation for all well-meaning people."