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The Prayer: A haunting children's christmas tale that captures the true spirit of Christmas
The words of The Prayer will stay with you forever. A haunting children’s Christmas tale from the imagination of Stephan J Myers, The Prayer is a rhapsody of images and words that will linger long after the last page is turned. Images and words that touch that special place inside, where the heart and mind know no boundaries. A tale of hope and reflection for readers young and old, as the ghost of Christmas fades and a New Year begins.
Since it was first written in 2009, The Prayer has been read by thousands of readers across the world in its original text; leaving the imagination of the reader to paint the images the words evoke. For the first time, the words of The Prayer come to life as they were originally intended.
Praise for Stephan J Myers
“Myers' fairy tale is a rhapsody of colours, musicality and clever rhyming …... Each picture, with its vivid colours and soft lines, is a narrative statement of its own...so brilliant it should be framed!”
“This is definitely a book that will be treasured and read again and again. The thing I still remember about my favourite childhood reads is the illustrations. There is so much detail on every page, I'm sure these will be remembered by generations to come.”
“As far as writing and illustration go this is what dreams are made of. Immaculately written and illustrated.”
“A truly charming & magical story by the very talented Stephen J Myers. As for the illustrations, they are simply stunning! I would highly recommend this book. A delightful read for all ages.”
- GenresPoetry
36 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2013
7 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Stephan J. Myers
10 books73 followersSometimes it seems I am permanently glued to my desk, though I have to say I can't think of anywhere else I'd rather be. Words and the illustrations they conjure in my head are part of me, have come to define who I am. Through them I have found a well of expression and it's a genuine privilege to share my images and words with readers who discover my books. There are many amazing writers in the world who connect with millions of readers but if I can connect with just one and they find meaning in my words it's all I can ever ask for.
You can find out a little more about me or the elusive Loss De Plott at www.LossDePlott.com or follow me on Twitter @stephanjmyers
You can find out a little more about me or the elusive Loss De Plott at www.LossDePlott.com or follow me on Twitter @stephanjmyers
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 26, 2017
REASON FOR 4 STARS
The only reason that I didn’t give this book the extra star was that it was far too short. It was a delightful story, and if I was still teaching, I would have loved to adapt it for a play in the classroom. It conveys a very strong message in very few words and I really loved the illustrations as well. Cute little book suitable for reading with young children.
The only reason that I didn’t give this book the extra star was that it was far too short. It was a delightful story, and if I was still teaching, I would have loved to adapt it for a play in the classroom. It conveys a very strong message in very few words and I really loved the illustrations as well. Cute little book suitable for reading with young children.
February 21, 2014
This is a poignant, wistful tale with a strong social conscience at its core. Words threaded through a jewel-bright weave of wonderful illustrations, it proceeds in a measured way to reveal to us how harsh is the reality of the Festive season for those who for reasons of family fate, social context and cultural values and practices are excluded from participation in the pleasurable shared rituals of decorating, feasting, gift-giving and general indulgence.
The story unfolds in a simple but effective three line rhyme format designed to draw young listeners and readers into its flow from the very first verse. The word images are simple and direct - highly visual, complementing the illustrations beautifully.
Many of the longest-lasting children's stories have a strong supernatural element; this emerges in ‘The Prayer’ right from the outset. We are aware of the spectral, ghostly presence shadowing the boy in his melancholy journey through a dark cold night, seeking shelter which is nowhere to be found. Time slips; children inside grow up, establish their own warm and welcoming homes and families. Our orphan, however, is not so fortunate.
The device Myers adopts, of having us sail above this melancholy scene in an imaginary ship, is very effective in providing a detached view from which the child's plight and the inevitable end towards which he is moving, is all too clear, its poignancy emphasised. We live in an age of shifting, disrupted populations, many torn apart by war. Many, many children are now orphaned refugees, seeking shelter which often they do not find. The archetype of the lost child, sadly, still lives in our world.
The pale winter's ghost is an enigmatic, ambivalent figure. Is it a comforting safety net for the spirits of children doomed to be lost? Or is it something more sinister, a robber of young souls who have had no time to grow up? Read this wonderful tale, rich in colour both visual and imaginative, and decide for yourself….
January 26, 2015
Read The Prayer to my children over Christmas and there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Despite the title it isn't actually religious. It's the story of a homeless boy and a winter ghost. The reference to prayer is simply that he prays for somewhere warm and some food whilst he is surrounded by people who have everything they want and ignore him. There are shades of a Christmas Carol to this story but that's as far as it goes. The story is told in rhyme and and as a poem it is beautiful whilst the accompanying illustrations are really wonderful. This is one of those books you can read all year through and always find the meaning in the words. A must read, someone please make it into a film!
March 12, 2022
This is the book which made me want to write narrative poetry myself. It has a real Dickensian feel, and is poignantly penned throughout.
The rhyme schemes are beautiful and the tale will tug at your heart strings. This is the style of poetry that I crave, I adore narrative poetry. It’s honestly one of the best poetry books that I have ever read, and the illustrations only add to the magic.
‘For sometimes the children who need things the most, are lost to the night and a pale winter’s ghost.’
The rhyme schemes are beautiful and the tale will tug at your heart strings. This is the style of poetry that I crave, I adore narrative poetry. It’s honestly one of the best poetry books that I have ever read, and the illustrations only add to the magic.
‘For sometimes the children who need things the most, are lost to the night and a pale winter’s ghost.’
December 9, 2017
A very touching story.
Just finished reading this well-written, affecting short tale, and I'll admit there are tears rolling down my cheeks (have to be careful not to get my Amazon Fire tablet wet :) )
Written in rhyme, the story is easy to follow for both children and adults, but I think it would be best to have the story read to little ones under the age of say, 10, as some of the wording and concepts would need to be explained to them for maximum benefit.
Short enough to be read in under ten minutes, but the story will stay with you for much longer...
Just finished reading this well-written, affecting short tale, and I'll admit there are tears rolling down my cheeks (have to be careful not to get my Amazon Fire tablet wet :) )
Written in rhyme, the story is easy to follow for both children and adults, but I think it would be best to have the story read to little ones under the age of say, 10, as some of the wording and concepts would need to be explained to them for maximum benefit.
Short enough to be read in under ten minutes, but the story will stay with you for much longer...
February 11, 2018
Great book! Should be read all year long to help us to remember those who have nothing.
This is a wonderful book. This should be read all year long so we never forget those who have nothing. This should be read out loud in every school once a month. To help our children know that it is better to give than receive.
This is a wonderful book. This should be read all year long so we never forget those who have nothing. This should be read out loud in every school once a month. To help our children know that it is better to give than receive.
October 12, 2017
"but no oil to spare for someone like he."
The sad state of lost, forgotten, set aside, abandoned children is etched in the words of this book. As the seasonal holidays approach I pray that their plight will be not only remembered but that we will in some way act upon it and remember the children.
The sad state of lost, forgotten, set aside, abandoned children is etched in the words of this book. As the seasonal holidays approach I pray that their plight will be not only remembered but that we will in some way act upon it and remember the children.
January 1, 2021
Touching Christmas story
Although this is a children's book, it really is for anyone. A poignant reminder of those not as fortunate and how we often choose to not see it.
Although this is a children's book, it really is for anyone. A poignant reminder of those not as fortunate and how we often choose to not see it.
December 25, 2013
These verses were first written in 2009 and recently published in Great Britain in kindle format. The author makes one request: before reading the story promise that you will never forget the meaning in these words. I don’t think that you will…
The title is a bit misleading because this book is not a prayer in the religious sense. At the beginning the scene is set for children round the world dreaming of the images and gifts that Christmas will bring; then suddenly shifts to the image of children who have no family, friends, and are struggling to survive the night. “For sometimes the children who need things the most, are lost to the night and a pale winter’s ghost.”
A starving child dressed in rags hears a voice in the darkness that urges him to follow his lantern so that he may discover a home with a hearth and a warm fire. This spirit instructs the boy to hold up his lantern and peer through the windows he passes along the way. The boy obeys and observes a young boy reading in a room with presents piled under the tree. At the next house he views this same boy who is now a father with a child on his knee; the kitchen tables piled high with food. As his lantern grows dimmer, the boy gazes through another window viewing that boy as an old man. No one in these houses is able to see his plight. The lamp is beginning to fade, and so is the life left in that little boy. When New Year dawns, those lucky children are still reveling in the holiday oblivious to his plight, while that little needy little boy has become a ghost.
This is a powerful and well written short story done in verse that will remain in memory long after you read it. The illustrations are colorful, fluid, warm and penetrating; they reinforce the words and draw on compelling images that do not allow the words to recede from memory. Myers represents the story through the eyes of the starving child though the execution does not always work. I would strongly recommend this book as a family read or a book for classroom discussion reminding all of the deeper meaning of the Christmas season.
The title is a bit misleading because this book is not a prayer in the religious sense. At the beginning the scene is set for children round the world dreaming of the images and gifts that Christmas will bring; then suddenly shifts to the image of children who have no family, friends, and are struggling to survive the night. “For sometimes the children who need things the most, are lost to the night and a pale winter’s ghost.”
A starving child dressed in rags hears a voice in the darkness that urges him to follow his lantern so that he may discover a home with a hearth and a warm fire. This spirit instructs the boy to hold up his lantern and peer through the windows he passes along the way. The boy obeys and observes a young boy reading in a room with presents piled under the tree. At the next house he views this same boy who is now a father with a child on his knee; the kitchen tables piled high with food. As his lantern grows dimmer, the boy gazes through another window viewing that boy as an old man. No one in these houses is able to see his plight. The lamp is beginning to fade, and so is the life left in that little boy. When New Year dawns, those lucky children are still reveling in the holiday oblivious to his plight, while that little needy little boy has become a ghost.
This is a powerful and well written short story done in verse that will remain in memory long after you read it. The illustrations are colorful, fluid, warm and penetrating; they reinforce the words and draw on compelling images that do not allow the words to recede from memory. Myers represents the story through the eyes of the starving child though the execution does not always work. I would strongly recommend this book as a family read or a book for classroom discussion reminding all of the deeper meaning of the Christmas season.
February 28, 2014
A Dickensian Parable
The Prayer by Stephen J. Myers is a fascinating if unusual work. On the surface The Prayer a simple if sad poem about a street urchin racked with the bitter cold and dying of starvation. It is beautifully written, with words carefully chosen for their sound value, chosen, too, to enhance the pathos of the theme but yet they are words that are direct and straightforward without literary pretence. The pictures, I imagine, would be visually more impressive and thought-provoking in the paperback version but even on my black and white kindle they add immeasurably to the story’s ambience.
The rhyme, too, and the rhythm, are cleverly constructed to allow the reader to read at pace while never losing hold of his attention or his empathy. Indeed, the Prayer takes only a short time to read but it lingers long afterwards in the heart.
To say I loved this short book may be inappropriate given is theme and the manner in which it brings to mind the terrible suffering and destitution of so many homeless children in our cities. But it is definitely gripping, a tightly controlled, hard hitting parable. It is social commentary that is aimed at the heart. In fact, it is not far in theme and tone from ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens.
Myers hits his target precisely. The reader is left thinking not only of the unfortunate child in the story but is forced to ask himself, ‘What of the next homeless, starving child? Or the next? Who will help them? Or will they too require some form of miraculous intervention?’
Myers urges us to look inward, to see the self-satisfied person on the other side of the window. Do we remain oblivious to the plight of these poor unfortunates or do we take some form of action? Read this wonderful little story and see how you feel afterwards.
The Prayer by Stephen J. Myers is a fascinating if unusual work. On the surface The Prayer a simple if sad poem about a street urchin racked with the bitter cold and dying of starvation. It is beautifully written, with words carefully chosen for their sound value, chosen, too, to enhance the pathos of the theme but yet they are words that are direct and straightforward without literary pretence. The pictures, I imagine, would be visually more impressive and thought-provoking in the paperback version but even on my black and white kindle they add immeasurably to the story’s ambience.
The rhyme, too, and the rhythm, are cleverly constructed to allow the reader to read at pace while never losing hold of his attention or his empathy. Indeed, the Prayer takes only a short time to read but it lingers long afterwards in the heart.
To say I loved this short book may be inappropriate given is theme and the manner in which it brings to mind the terrible suffering and destitution of so many homeless children in our cities. But it is definitely gripping, a tightly controlled, hard hitting parable. It is social commentary that is aimed at the heart. In fact, it is not far in theme and tone from ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens.
Myers hits his target precisely. The reader is left thinking not only of the unfortunate child in the story but is forced to ask himself, ‘What of the next homeless, starving child? Or the next? Who will help them? Or will they too require some form of miraculous intervention?’
Myers urges us to look inward, to see the self-satisfied person on the other side of the window. Do we remain oblivious to the plight of these poor unfortunates or do we take some form of action? Read this wonderful little story and see how you feel afterwards.
March 20, 2014
First off, I’d like to say the illustrations were very impressive. I wanted to reach out and hug the little boy as he sat on the street. They were colorful, very realistic, and beautifully done.
The thing most beneficial about this read is the underlying messages. I found something different each time I read this. On the first read, it rang similar, in some areas, to A Christmas Carol, where the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future come to visit. If the boy was representative of the spirit, who hadn't been giving to others, then each stop at the window could show his growth into a young man, and his being taken away at the end as a punishment of sorts for not learning his lesson: to give to those less fortunate.
Upon a second read, it could simply be the boy facing the harsh reality there are some people who are so prosperous that they have forgotten what it was like to be him. The divide is created, and this happens a lot more than one may realize. Think of the homeless person on the street who’s seeking food or some spare change. How many people actually stop and provide as opposed to those who walk away and tell him to go to a shelter?
No matter the interpretation, this simple, well crafted read is highly recommended, as a testament to the importance of helping others and the end result if one does not.
The thing most beneficial about this read is the underlying messages. I found something different each time I read this. On the first read, it rang similar, in some areas, to A Christmas Carol, where the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future come to visit. If the boy was representative of the spirit, who hadn't been giving to others, then each stop at the window could show his growth into a young man, and his being taken away at the end as a punishment of sorts for not learning his lesson: to give to those less fortunate.
Upon a second read, it could simply be the boy facing the harsh reality there are some people who are so prosperous that they have forgotten what it was like to be him. The divide is created, and this happens a lot more than one may realize. Think of the homeless person on the street who’s seeking food or some spare change. How many people actually stop and provide as opposed to those who walk away and tell him to go to a shelter?
No matter the interpretation, this simple, well crafted read is highly recommended, as a testament to the importance of helping others and the end result if one does not.
May 8, 2014
What are we reading?: The Prayer, by Stephan J Myers
Give me the short version: Brief lyrical tale of a homeless child’s quest for refuge, in the glittering aftermath of others’ rich Christmas.
Couched in the reassuring sing-song rhythm of spoken word, The Prayer’s bittersweet morality fable brings alive long-buried memories of Christmas reading-time at the children’s library, but delivers a delicately balanced message for audiences of any age.
The framing narrative and stern ghosts of condemnation it summons to haunt those who enjoy the fortune of home carelessly, or selfishly, are settled at the other end of the table from the child’s own search for just such a precious hearth. Thus, a loving household is held up to view like the most beautiful ornament, renewing even the most previously jaded appreciation for one’s own enviable situation.
Literally the only thing that prevented me leaving the full five stars was this is a manner of tale rather off my beaten track of sci-fi and horror; however, I’m extremely glad it was recommended to me. I’m quite sure any thoughtful reader could find fragile loveliness as much as sorrow here.
My favourite bit: “The shoes on his feet, still let in the cold, but he lifts them with pride for he feels very bold.”
Give me the short version: Brief lyrical tale of a homeless child’s quest for refuge, in the glittering aftermath of others’ rich Christmas.
Couched in the reassuring sing-song rhythm of spoken word, The Prayer’s bittersweet morality fable brings alive long-buried memories of Christmas reading-time at the children’s library, but delivers a delicately balanced message for audiences of any age.
The framing narrative and stern ghosts of condemnation it summons to haunt those who enjoy the fortune of home carelessly, or selfishly, are settled at the other end of the table from the child’s own search for just such a precious hearth. Thus, a loving household is held up to view like the most beautiful ornament, renewing even the most previously jaded appreciation for one’s own enviable situation.
Literally the only thing that prevented me leaving the full five stars was this is a manner of tale rather off my beaten track of sci-fi and horror; however, I’m extremely glad it was recommended to me. I’m quite sure any thoughtful reader could find fragile loveliness as much as sorrow here.
My favourite bit: “The shoes on his feet, still let in the cold, but he lifts them with pride for he feels very bold.”
April 11, 2014
Christmas classics are filled with light, magic and hope and this book should be among the greats. Though short, this beautiful poem complete with pictures, immediately had me reflecting on past Christmas' and the less fortunate I knew.
A simple yet effective poem which brings the reader back to the magic of their present filled Christmas, even if they just received some extra time with friends, this story is profound. It's message of receiving books and feeling love and appreciating the fortunate circumstances life brought us.
While in our own communities, kids struggle to find hope and small fortunes like a tiny bit of oil, other children demand the most expensive toy available and receive it.
Filled with symbolism and hope, peace, and warmth both adults and children can relate to. An updated version of The 12 Days of Christmas, this story should be told by the fire on Christmas Eve.
With whimsical rhymes and seemingly carefully perfected words, Myers leaves his readers a memory of both sadness and hope.
A reminder to see what's out your window when you look and not to take so much for granted.
A highly recommended read.
Thanks for reading,
Sarah Butland
A simple yet effective poem which brings the reader back to the magic of their present filled Christmas, even if they just received some extra time with friends, this story is profound. It's message of receiving books and feeling love and appreciating the fortunate circumstances life brought us.
While in our own communities, kids struggle to find hope and small fortunes like a tiny bit of oil, other children demand the most expensive toy available and receive it.
Filled with symbolism and hope, peace, and warmth both adults and children can relate to. An updated version of The 12 Days of Christmas, this story should be told by the fire on Christmas Eve.
With whimsical rhymes and seemingly carefully perfected words, Myers leaves his readers a memory of both sadness and hope.
A reminder to see what's out your window when you look and not to take so much for granted.
A highly recommended read.
Thanks for reading,
Sarah Butland
July 6, 2015
This is a poem with beautiful illustrations. This book had me in tears. This is the story of an ophaned child alone on the streets on Christmas. He looks through windows of other homes and wonders why he can't have food, presents, or a warm place to shield him from the cold.
I will never forget reading this. I read this a week ago and it has still yet to stay out of my thoughts. I will admit that I spoil my kids. They have everything (tablets, computers, dirt bikes...they ask, I get it). They do work for it though; They are both straight A students and help out a lot around the house. My daughter read this and has since been much more thankful for all that she has. I gave her 20 dollars to spend on herself and she hopped on her bike, road to the store, and bought a bag of groceries for our neighbor who has been off work for a couple weeks for medical reasons. I watched her set the bag on their porch then ring there door bell and run off. I am so proud of her.
Free on Amazon
I will never forget reading this. I read this a week ago and it has still yet to stay out of my thoughts. I will admit that I spoil my kids. They have everything (tablets, computers, dirt bikes...they ask, I get it). They do work for it though; They are both straight A students and help out a lot around the house. My daughter read this and has since been much more thankful for all that she has. I gave her 20 dollars to spend on herself and she hopped on her bike, road to the store, and bought a bag of groceries for our neighbor who has been off work for a couple weeks for medical reasons. I watched her set the bag on their porch then ring there door bell and run off. I am so proud of her.
Free on Amazon
December 16, 2013
Read my full review on MINA'S BOOKSHELF http://minadecaro.blogspot.com/2013/1...
Along the lines of The Little Matchgirl (Hand Christian Andersen) and The Star Money (Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm), The Prayer is a heart-grabbing reminder of what sadly hides beyond the glittery opulence displayed during the holiday season: children with their noses pressed against the bright windows of other people's wealth and happiness, victims of inadequate or non-existent nurturing, deprived of the most basic necessities as well as the emotional warmth of a family. Myers' vibrant illustrations will capture your heart; his voice will pulsate with mesmerizing cadence.
A memorable and emotional Christmas tale, admirably rendered by Stephan J. Myers' visual lyricism and poetic sensitivity.
Along the lines of The Little Matchgirl (Hand Christian Andersen) and The Star Money (Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm), The Prayer is a heart-grabbing reminder of what sadly hides beyond the glittery opulence displayed during the holiday season: children with their noses pressed against the bright windows of other people's wealth and happiness, victims of inadequate or non-existent nurturing, deprived of the most basic necessities as well as the emotional warmth of a family. Myers' vibrant illustrations will capture your heart; his voice will pulsate with mesmerizing cadence.
A memorable and emotional Christmas tale, admirably rendered by Stephan J. Myers' visual lyricism and poetic sensitivity.
December 28, 2013
The Christmas book, The Prayer, is written in rhyme with an eloquence that comes off as easy and unpretentious. Its message comes through gently, but clearly. While you are wrapping gifts, cooking feasts and enjoying warm winter fires, don’t forget those who are less fortunate. This book is sweet, touching and simply unforgettable. It reminds you to be thankful of what you have, but mindful of those who need a friend, need a meal and need a home. In my opinion, this book is for both children and adults. We all need to be reminded that there are people in the world who need a hand up. Thank you for this powerful and loving message, Mr. Myers.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2015
Downloaded as a Kindle giveaway I have to say I was left quite emotional. It is a children’s book but the theme gives it far broader appeal and encourages the reader to reflect on the things we don't necessarily see. In this case it is an orphan boy all alone on the streets on a winter’s night. The ending on first read is sad but upon reflection I saw something else in the illustration and words and I think it is one of those books you will read again and again and take more from it each time you read it. For my money (not literally) this is one of the best seasonal books I have read and up there with a Christmas Carol. I think it would make a super film or animated story at Christmas time.
March 20, 2014
The Prayer by Stephan J Myers
This short but beautifully illustrated book was not what I expected. It’s not the type of thing I would usually choose to read. However, I’m very glad I did read this excellent little tale. It’s a deep and very moving work that leaves the reader both illuminated and emotionally challenged.
Each page paints a clear picture of despair and hope. It’s like being part of a colourful dream that could so easily become a nightmare. It’s a book I will definitely read again and one I will think about every Christmas holiday.
The words flow as easily as the images and when you all too quickly reach the end you are left feeling you have shared a lasting revelation.
This short but beautifully illustrated book was not what I expected. It’s not the type of thing I would usually choose to read. However, I’m very glad I did read this excellent little tale. It’s a deep and very moving work that leaves the reader both illuminated and emotionally challenged.
Each page paints a clear picture of despair and hope. It’s like being part of a colourful dream that could so easily become a nightmare. It’s a book I will definitely read again and one I will think about every Christmas holiday.
The words flow as easily as the images and when you all too quickly reach the end you are left feeling you have shared a lasting revelation.
June 24, 2015
Sweetly rhythmic and smoothly rhyming, Stephan Myer’s children’s Christmas story, the Prayer, reads a little like The Night Before Christmas crossed with a touch of Dickens. The illustrations have a warmly Dickensian feel too. And the story’s as dark as any Dickens plot, as a homeless child wishes someone who with gifts would share from the bounty they’ve got. The Prayer is humanly sad, spiritual haunting, and beautifully faithful without being tied to any faith. It’s a lovely Christmas tale for any time of year, and a wise lesson to guide a growing child.
Disclosure: It was free so I bought it.
Disclosure: It was free so I bought it.
February 13, 2014
A lovely tale in a lyrical rhyme that tears at your heart strings. It is beautifully illustrated and captures the spirit of Christmas with its theme. The Prayer is eloquently written about a young boy who is looking for a warm place of his own and a meal. As he travels along he notices how others have so much and he has nothing.
This is a tale that will haunt the reader for a long time. It makes one think about how unfair life can be for some. This author demonstrates a sensitive and caring side to his writing which is very endearing.
This is a tale that will haunt the reader for a long time. It makes one think about how unfair life can be for some. This author demonstrates a sensitive and caring side to his writing which is very endearing.
May 8, 2014
Stephan J. Myers does a fantastic job of bringing a grim reality to life on the page in The Prayer, a story of the variety of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Accompanied by detailed illustrations and rhythmic prose, The Prayer is something of a calling to all who have much to help out those who do not have much; not just around the holidays as is the usual convention, but throughout the whole year. Even if you’re not big into poetry, this tale will hit home. Recommended for children and adults alike.
June 26, 2015
This is an amazing book. It appealed to me enormously because of my penchant for "darker" things. It bridges the gap between the accepted "Christmas" story and a more meaningful look at life around the holiday season. The writing is well crafted and the illustrations fit perfectly with the feel of the book and the message it is trying to convey. I liked it so much the moment I finished it I went back and read it over again, this time paying more attention to how the words and pictures worked together. Very much recommended!
December 14, 2013
The Prayer is a short tale with a sad, yet powerful message. It looks at the other side of Christmas, at children who are less fortunate and won't have things like Christmas dinners and presents. It is told in rhyme like the Christmas books I remember reading as a kid and it's illustrated with beautiful pictures. Some people might not enjoy the book because of its realistic subject matter, and my advice is to look at the sample before purchasing it.
January 18, 2014
Absolutely beautiful rhyme with wonderful illustrations. It reminds me of The Little Match Girl. I will be adding this to our Christmas books that are read every year. I think I will make it the book that opens our Christmas season as the message is an excellent one to carry throughout the season, (and year). If you have children and want them to understand that Christmas is not all, "how much will I get", try this book.
February 23, 2014
I was curious and downloaded The Prayer, by Stephan J Myers. I have always raised my children to have their eyes open to seeing both the good and the bad in the world. This story is a wonderfully told, beautifully illustrated classic in the making. It’s quite a unique children’s tale that will be enjoyed by the adult reading it as well. You cannot help but feel something was struck deep inside when you reach the end. I look forward to reading more stories from Myers.
March 31, 2014
The Prayer is a simple children's rhyme, skillfully written with a much deeper message about the charity of human kind. The poem illuminates a reflection of ourselves and how fortunate many of us are to have the basic necessities in life. I enjoyed the poem, and was deeply moved by the underlying meaning: to not forget those who are sleeping on the streets, cold and lonely. I look forward to reading more works by this author.
June 4, 2014
A beautifully illustrated book that reaches off the page to pull the reader in. Myers takes the reader on a journey to count your blessings. We are all children of God but some fall through the cracks. There is a great need to reach out and help the have-nots of this world. I will read this book with my grandchildren and recommend it to one and all.
June 28, 2014
This beautiful little Christmas poem was stunningly written and the illustrations really added to the emotion of the book. The tale itself didn't end quite the way I was expecting and left me with a tear in my eye. It made me want to give away every one of the piled up presents under our tree to the poor and needy. A truly wonderful tale with a powerful point to make.
July 12, 2017
This is a poem as beautiful as its illustrations. As you read, you catch a glimmer of hope for the boy on the street. In the end, you learn that the glimmer of hope is you, but the moment has passed. We should all relate ourselves to the boy reading the book by the warm fire as we read this prayer, the prayer of the other boy on the outside, looking in.
July 6, 2015
A wonderful and thought-provoking story that is not just for children. Beautifully written with illustrations that draw you in - I found it appealingly dark and shadowy as well, something you won't usually find in a "children's" book. This is a sophisticated bedtime story that does away with any froth and bubble - wholeheartedly recommended if you want something a little different.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews