Prayer Is

by Tameka Fryer Brown, Alleanna Harris (Illustrator)

For fans of Ainsley Earhardt and Matthew Paul Turner, this lyrical and heartwarming picture book introduces little ones to prayer and its infinite meanings, encouraging connection with God in moments big and small.

When we lie down to sleep or bless our food before we eat, we pray. But what is prayer?

Prayer is gratitude. Prayer is love. Prayer is a gift from God that everyone can use in times of need. It can be said in a shout or a whisper, in the pews of a church or on the living room couch. Prayer is simple—anyone can do it.

With simple, sweet, contemplative text from award-winning author Tameka Fryer Brown and sweet illustrations from rising-star artist Alleanna Harris, Prayer Is is a gentle exploration of the different meanings of prayer seen through the eyes of a girl and her family—the perfect gift for baby showers, christenings, birthdays, or any moment in a child’s life.

Did you enjoy Prayer Is? Then you’ll love these picture books from Tameka Fryer All the Greatness in You and Brown Baby Lullaby.

Genres: Picture Books, Religion, Christian Fiction, Childrens, African American, Inspirational

32 pages, Hardcover

Published January 13, 2026

About the author

Children's book author. Montessori mom. Reads banned books.

Reviews

[Marcus D · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautiful and much needed. Sometimes we can complicate prayer. This tender story breaks down prayer for the young and the old. This is definitely a must have.

[Ann Newton · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a person of, "Spirit" This book is just what I would give to parents of children who want to learn how to pray or even, what is prayer? This is a wonderfully sweet book from Tameka Fryer Brown. Such a great book even for adults. Sometimes we even need the joy and sweetness of a picture book for things like prayer. Even now we need prayer and our babies need to know how they too, can grow and know that they can speak to the Most High themselves through prayers. Great Book!!

[Pamela Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolute beautiful read. Told simply. Yet there's such power in the intimacy of Tameka Fryer Brown's words and Harris' illustrations. Speaking of illustrations Harris' illustrations lend perfectly to a theme that is universal, yet intentional in its cultural presentation. This is a book your little ones will demand to have it read to them again and again.

[Denise Crowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely beautiful! The words are heartfelt, real, and simple. It’s easy enough for a child to understand but deep enough for an adult to relate to. The illustrations are phenomenal! Rich in color and character and the attention to detail is exceptional. Reading this book gave me a little stress break for the day and reminded me what prayer is.

[Malcolm Newsome · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful and heartfelt ode to prayer and faith and it's done in a way that I feel I've never seen. The language is lyrical, yet straightforward. And the art is at once gentle and striking. Hats off to the creators. This book shines!

[Panda Incognito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some picture books about prayer are hopelessly vague in their attempts to be all-inclusive. This beautifully illustrated, touching book is a refreshing alternative. The author explains prayer in a way that has real substance, helping children understand what prayer is, how to pray, and why prayer is important. I love that this book highlights who you're talking to! Some books just talk about the emotional benefits of prayer, but this one shows that you're communicating with a personal God who loves you and wants to hear what you have to say.

The words flow well and are great for reading aloud, and the illustrations are beautiful. I love the stunning stained glass window design on the endpapers, and it's so sweet to see the different scenes where the main character is praying with her family, by herself, and at church, in all kinds of different situations and moods. The pictures add so much to the book, and they help tell a story, instead of just teaching a concept.

This book focuses on an African American Christian family, but it can appeal to people from any cultural background and many belief systems. This strikes just the right balance for a secular-published book about religion. It is general enough for a mainstream market while also authentically reflecting the author's beliefs, and I highly recommend this to people looking for ways to teach kids about prayer.

[Patrice · Rating 5 out of 5]

A glorious tribute to, reflection on, and celebration of the power, beauty, and mystery of prayer. Tameka Fryer Brown’s inviting language and Alleanna Harris’ tender illustrations make PRAYER IS a book children and caregivers will return to again and again. In a world where so much uncertainty exists, this book is both a caring hug and an offering that reminds us we are not alone. There is an Almighty who cares, who holds our concerns and worries, and who delights in our joys. Whether we pray alone or together, whether in silence or with words, this soothing and encouraging book reminds us that we can turn our hearts toward prayer.

[Kirstie Myvett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tameka Fryer Brown succinctly tackles the mysteries of prayer for children and adult readers, explaining the whys, when’s, and how we pray. TFB even touches on the times when it’s hard to pray. My favorite quote is, “Prayer comforts when feelings feel bigger than we can handle.” This book is a beautiful treasure for children and parents to explore and share the powerful gift of prayer. The touching and intergenerational images by Alleana Harris leave you with a feeling of warmth and love, which is exactly what PRAYER IS.

[Valerie Bolling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prayer is an integral part of many of our lives, and this book honors that. Tameka lets children know all of the things that they can pray for, and I like that she says, “Prayer is easy and, later, “Prayer is also hard.” My favorite lines are: “Prayer is caring. Prayer is healing. Prayer is love.” Alleanna’s illustrations bring so much to the text. I love the art that accompanies my favorite words, and I appreciate special touches like the main character having one eye open when everyone else’s are closed as her family blesses their meal. Brava, Tameka and Alleanna, and pray on!

[Alliah Agostini · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful, age-appropriate (though relevant to adults, too!) introduction to the breadth of prayer and its power. It also speaks to the reality of its challenges, how it is perceived by different people, but most importantly, its accessibility to anyone. A great conversation starter. I enjoyed the easter eggs of the family from All the Greatness in You, and how their family is evolving, too!

[Tonya Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely, child-friendly story that discusses what prayer means, how it helps us handle life, and ways we can pray. The simple verse and soothing illustrations are relatable and draw the reader in. I love the stained glass end papers. A classic to add to all book collections!

[Sharon Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gentle book for young readers and their grown ups on prayer. Prayer can be an expression of caring for family and friends. Prayer can bring comfort and calm to us and the ones we love. Young readers and their adults will enjoy reading and re-reading together.

[J Bates · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book to help children (and their grown-ups) understand how and why we pray and to connect them with the beauty and power of prayer. Beautifully illustrated.