on January 13, 2026
Genres: Children's
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For fans of Ainsley Earhardt and Matthew Paul Turner, this lyrical and heartwarming picture book introduces little ones to prayer and its infinite meanings, encouraging connection with God in moments big and small.
When we lie down to sleep or bless our food before we eat, we pray. But what is prayer?
Prayer is gratitude. Prayer is love. Prayer is a gift from God that everyone can use in times of need. It can be said in a shout or a whisper, in the pews of a church or on the living room couch. Prayer is simple―anyone can do it.
With simple, sweet, contemplative text from award-winning author Tameka Fryer Brown and sweet illustrations from rising-star artist Alleanna Harris, Prayer Is is a gentle exploration of the different meanings of prayer seen through the eyes of a girl and her family―the perfect gift for baby showers, christenings, birthdays, or any moment in a child’s life.
Some picture books about prayer are hopelessly vague in their attempts to be all-inclusive. This beautifully illustrated, touching book is a refreshing alternative. Tameka Fryer Brown explains prayer in a way that has real substance, helping children understand what prayer is, how to pray, and why prayer is important. I love that Prayer Is highlights who you’re talking to! Some books just talk about the emotional benefits of prayer, but this one shows that you’re communicating with a personal God who loves you and wants to hear what you have to say.
The words flow well and are great for reading aloud, and the illustrations are beautiful. I love the stunning stained glass window design on the endpapers, and it’s so sweet to see the different scenes where the main character is praying with her family, by herself, and at church, in all kinds of different situations and moods. The pictures by Alleanna Harris add so much to the book, and they help tell a story, instead of just teaching a concept.
Prayer Is focuses on an African American Christian family, but it can appeal to people from any cultural background and many belief systems. This strikes just the right balance for a secular-published book about religion. It is general enough for a mainstream market while also authentically reflecting the author’s beliefs, and I highly recommend this to people looking for ways to teach kids about prayer.
