Book Review: All Hallows’ Eve by Anthony DeStefano

Every year as October 31st approaches, the world seems to be filled with jack-o’-lanterns, costumes, and candy. While there’s nothing wrong with a little fun, it’s easy to forget that Halloween has deep Catholic roots. “All Hallows’ Eve” is not merely about spooks and scares. It is the vigil of All Saints’ Day, a time to honor the saints, pray for the dead, and reflect on the reality of eternal life. As a mother, I often find myself looking for resources that help my children see past the cultural noise and rediscover the true beauty of this feast. That’s why I was so delighted when my parents presented me with a copy of Anthony DeStefano’s latest book, All Hallows’ Eve.

+JMJ+ My family's favorite Catholic children's author, Anthony DeStefano, has done it again! His latest children’s book, All Hallows’ Eve, beautifully captures the true spirit of Halloween (or All Hallows’ Eve) while inviting readers (young and old alike) on an adventure through life, death, and the eternal hope of Heaven. This story reminds us of the meaning, significance, and beauty of this often-misunderstood day.

All Hallows’ Eve is a phenomenal resource for families, teachers, catechists, or anyone who wants to better understand this Catholic feast. Around this time of year, we’re so inundated with scary (and sometimes even demonic) images and traditions that it’s easy to forget that Halloween is deeply Catholic at its roots. In fact, it is a feast meant to honor the saints, remember the dead, and pray for the faithful departed.

The story follows a small group of friends who, while sharing spooky tales in a graveyard, encounter an old woman who has a story of her own to tell. What follows is a narrative that is at once bittersweet and fun, with just enough spine-tingling moments to make young readers shiver a little but also smile and laugh.

As always, I am amazed by Anthony’s ability to write stories that appeal to both children and adults. He has a gift for packing so much meaning into a short, engaging tale. While this story highlights the true meaning of Halloween, it also weaves in themes of Purgatory, prayer, penance, and even the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. There are hints of Divine Mercy throughout as well (actually, my parents purchased the book for us at the Divine Mercy Shrine in Stockbridge, MA) though not mentioned explicitly, it opens the door for wonderful conversations with children. Reading this with my own kids was a perfect opportunity to talk about these important aspects of our faith.

I highly recommend All Hallows’ Eve! It is sweet, captivating, and sure to become a beloved family favorite, especially during this season. May this book inspire us all to pray more fervently for one another, for the poor souls in Purgatory, and for all who have died or will die.

Thank you, Anthony, for once again sharing your remarkable talent and helping us pass on the beauty of our Catholic faith to the next generation.

You can purchase a copy of All Hallows' Eve from Sophia Press

---

Disclaimer: I was not paid or compensated in any way to write this review. I purchased my own copy of the book and all opinions expressed here are entirely my own.