New Children’s Book Reveals the True Meaning of Halloween, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day
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Anthony DeStefano. The Story of the First Easter Bunny. Manchester, NH: Sophia Institute Press, 2024. Hardcover $17.95. eBook $9.99. 32 pages. Available from the publisher.
Ever since I was a little girl, Easter has been my favorite holiday. While it’s true that I am somewhat of a chocoholic and spring fills me with delight, I think my love of Easter went deeper. Although Christmas was imbued with excitement, I felt like Easter had a certain peace and hope that could simply be enjoyed.
The Story of the First Easter Bunny reclaims the true meaning of Easter for the young — and young at heart. Children will learn about virtue through the selfless journey of a young bunny who demonstrates courage and compassion in his adventure to find healing for his ailing mother. Bestselling author Anthony DeStefano’s masterful rhyming helps little ones enter the rhythm of the final days of Jesus and experience the glory of His resurrection.
Indeed, DeStefano penned a “‘wonderfully creative” story to “capture the imagination of children,” shared Dr. Dick Eastman, Every Home for Christ president.
In his CatholicLink article, “Should Catholic Parents Allow Their Children To Believe In The Easter Bunny?,” DeStefano explains the advantage of utilizing secular symbols to teach children about spiritual truths. “This interpretation offers a fresh and meaningful way to connect the secular symbol of the bunny with the profound religious significance of Easter. Thus, while the Easter Bunny itself is not inherently Catholic, it can be effectively employed by Catholic parents as a ‘spice’ to add to the festivity of the Easter celebration, without replacing the ‘meat’ of the Easter banquet. Such an approach not only preserves the joy, innocence and fun of childhood but also instills a deeper, richer, understanding of the Christian faith to children. An additional benefit, of course, is that, by essentially ‘baptizing’ the Easter Bunny, we can cleverly strike back at the secular culture and turn its worldly message to our advantage.”
Reviewers shared that this is “A story your child will love.” “This book is perfect for teaching your kid about true celebration of Easter while allowing them to enjoy the sweetness of the beloved Easter Bunny.” “This is such an incredible creative story about the first Easter bunny. A story of love and renewal that will be the perfect addition to your Easter traditions.”
Beautiful illustrations by New York Times bestselling artist, Randy Cowdrey enliven each page and help share the faith with young readers. In this delightful book, children – and adults – will bask in the peace and hope of Easter anew.
Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Communications’ Director, Sarah Lemieux at slemieux@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a copy of The Story of the First Easter Bunny, and/or to schedule an interview.
Mary Beth Bracy is a writer who is blessed to research, publish, and speak extensively on various aspects of Catholic spirituality. Her books include Behold the Lamb, Bread of Life and The Little Way of Healing Love Through the Passion of Jesus: The Stations of the Cross with St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and she is co-author of the book Stories of the Eucharist. She has written articles for numerous Catholic publications and recorded some Catholic talks. Mary Beth is also a professional teacher, dual certified in English and Special Education, and the owner of a Catholic book and gift shop online. A proud member of the St. John Paul II generation, and lover of all things St. Thérèse, Mary Beth enjoys spending time in Eucharistic Adoration daily, keeping in touch with her family and friends, as well as, sharing her faith with others.
