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All Hallows’ Eve by Anthony DeStefano. Sophia Institute Press (Manchester, NH, 2025). 48 pp., hardcover, $17.95; paperback, $14.99; eBook, $9.99.
My youngest nephew has been fascinated by Halloween, especially “spooky scary skeletons,” for several years. He is also interested in learning about spiritual things, so I am always looking for new resources to help him learn more about the Faith. Thankfully, Anthony DeStefano just released All Hallows’ Eve in time for the season.
DeStefano’s telling of the story may be viewed here.
The engaging story line focuses on young friends who are wandering around a graveyard on Halloween and experience a mysterious, life-changing encounter. Though entertaining, DeStefano’s tale also explains the important truths surrounding All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. In fact, this book has been endorsed by several members of the Church hierarchy, in addition to an exorcist and numerous catechists.
In her review, Faith Hakesley, author, wrote: “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.”
Through his gift of story telling and captivating rhymes, DeStefano highlights the importance of our charitable deeds and intercessory prayers for others. With enthralling full-color illustrations by Erwin Madrid, this book inspires the young and young at heart.
“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,” added Hakesley.
Already hailed a classic, this book is a family favorite that children and parents will enjoy reading again and again. I look forward to sharing it with my little nephew and nieces this season to help them learn about the power of God’s mercy, the importance of kindness, and our unity as believers.
Bishop John O. Barres of Rockille Centre, shared, “DeStefano’s thoughtful yet charming book engages children in the mysteries of the faith with a method that has already proven itself through the successes of J.R.R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis — storytelling. I hope his contribution will aid in sowing the seeds of faith for future generations.”
Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Institute Press’ Director of Publicity, Samantha Hughes at shughes@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a physical or digital copy of All Hallows' Eve, and/or to schedule an interview with Anthony DeStefano.
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.
