Book Review: The Power of Prayer by Kevin and Mary O’Neil

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+JMJ+ Reading The Power of Prayer brought back so many memories of my twin brother and me playing with Legos as kids (sadly, neither of have much time for blocks these days. Ha!). We would create little Catholic scenes. The boat set? That was Noah. The soldiers? Those were Archangels and saints of course. And yes, we even “said Mass” in our living room! Looking back, I realize how much my parents’ faith shaped those playful moments, and it’s been such a joy to see my own children do the same. When Jesus shows up in their play, you know you’re doing something right!

The Power of Prayer captures that magic beautifully. It shows kids that they can bring Jesus into their play in imaginative and meaningful ways. My children (even my two teenagers) were impressed at the photos and incredible brick creations. What a creative, inspiring way to evangelize and teach the Faith!

One of my favorite sections pf this book was Chalk Talk with Archbishop Fulton Sheen. What a brilliant tribute to a master of Catholic communication! With his beatification coming this year, it feels even more special.

Every page of The Power of Prayer is a little adventure. The creativity is contagious, and my kids couldn’t stop pointing out the tiny details in the block scenes, laughing, marveling, and asking questions about the saints, the prayers, and the stories. After reading this book, they have been inspired to make their own creations. I have to say, I may be biased but I'm impressed at what they've come up with! What I love most is how this book naturally sparks conversation about faith at home. It’s not just something to read. It's also something to experience together as a family.

Whether it’s praying a simple aspiration, exploring a saint’s story, or discovering how the Mass connects to everyday life, children of all ages are creatively invited into a life of prayer without it feeling like a lesson. Even my teenagers, who usually roll their eyes at books aimed at “younger kids,” were captivated. This book reminds us that learning about God can be joyful, hands-on, and even playful.

If you’re looking for a gift that inspires, educates, and entertains all at once, this is it. The Power of Prayer teaches children to pray and invites them to live their faith in creative, meaningful ways. Watching my kids’ eyes light up as they connected with the stories and saints reminded me of how important it can be to share our faith with love and creativity.

This is a book I’ll be reaching for again and again, not just for my own children, but to gift to others who want their kids to grow up seeing that prayer, play, and wonder can live together beautifully.

Get your copy from Sophia Press today!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Sophia Institute Press in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.