In the final months of my senior year of high school, I was going through a rough patch. Life was changing fast, decisions were demanding, and my relationships with lifelong friends were on the rocks. Life felt like it was swirling—moving too fast for me to determine what was and was not good and true. God, His Church, and His promises were lumped into my whirlwind of thoughts, and I was caught in the “freeze” response of the “fight or flight” instinct.
Though I can’t recall the exact details, somehow, in the midst of searching for calm and clarity, I found myself with a book about Heaven by Anthony DeStefano. It was exactly what I needed. His ability to take the complex mysteries of God and explain them in accessible, meaningful ways moved me to tears more than once. Through his writing, I gained a deeper understanding of Heaven’s mysteries—and developed a genuine longing to be there. To this day—almost twenty years later—it is still a book that I suggest to those who ask me for reading recommendations.
As the years passed and life continued to change, I became a wife and mother. To my delight, I discovered that the author who had helped me through a difficult time also wrote children's books. I was thrilled to find that DeStefano’s remarkable ability to translate complex theology into accessible language carried over into his writing for young readers as well. As a high school theology teacher, I appreciate his mastery of this skill all the more.
When given a chance to review his latest work, From Bread and Wine to Saints Divine, I jumped at the chance.
An Unbiased Take
My daily work of grading papers, formally observing colleagues, and editing theology curriculum has turned me into quite the critic. My husband likes to joke that he doesn't know how he made the cut (“Your beard,” I assure him). Despite my genuine admiration for the author, I’d typically be quick to point out anything about the book that I did not like. But the truth is, as I read it, I was genuinely blown away. I have explored many of DeStefano’s works, and there are some I have liked more than others. However, From Bread and Wine to Saints Divine jumped straight to the top of my list of his children’s books after just one read-through.
A Walk Through the Pages
Utilizing his mastery of simplifying complex truths, DeStefano begins the book by addressing life changes that even the youngest readers (and their listeners) can easily comprehend. He pairs this with a rhyming pattern that captivates little ears, making the rhythm of the story both engaging and inviting. He builds from these familiar changes to introduce the mystery of the Eucharist and the process of transubstantiation. Then, he masterfully ties it all together by illustrating how the Eucharist changes us and makes us holy. Even after decades of dwelling on and praying with these truths, I found myself with a renewed appreciation for the Eucharist and a desire to receive our Lord more frequently, in order to undergo this transformation myself.
From the Playroom to the Pew: A Book for Everyone
My impression is that this book is most appropriate for children ages four through nine, though truly all ages will benefit from listening. My family read it together for the first time before our nightly prayer time on Holy Thursday. My three-year-old was enthralled with all the relatable yet magical pictures by James Madsen. My six-year-old entered more deeply into the book, not only following the story but also all the theological points (as her teacher momma could not help but ask some comprehension questions later). I think this book would be a tremendous help particularly for parents with a child preparing to receive their First Holy Communion. Many sacramental prep books rightly focus on appropriate catechesis to form an intellectual understanding of and faith in the Sacrament and the doctrine concerning it, and From Bread and Wine to Saints Divine is a perfect companion to the process; it will evangelize hearts and help with the process of baptizing the imagination through its colorful words and illustrations.
A Book Which Belongs on Your Shelf
From Bread and Wine to Saints Divine is more than just a children’s book—it’s a work of evangelization. It speaks to the minds and hearts of young readers while simultaneously renewing the wonder of the Eucharist in adults. Whether you're a parent preparing a child for First Communion, a teacher looking for engaging classroom resources, or simply someone who desires to grow in appreciation for this central mystery of our faith, this book is a gift. DeStefano has once again delivered timeless truths in a way that is tender, approachable, and profoundly beautiful. I’m grateful to add it to my family’s shelf—and even more grateful for the conversations it has sparked in our home.
Grace Bellon is a wife, mom, and high school theology teacher who has spent years walking with young people as they wrestle with faith, identity, and the ache for something more. She writes from the heart of a classroom, the hustle of family life, and the quiet corners where the Lord speaks most tenderly. She believes in miracles, mercy, and the delicate art of balancing home-cooked meals with takeout nights. Her sweetest joys are found in the company of one man who keeps her coffee cup full, her children who keep her laundry baskets fuller, and the Eucharist which fills her heart and soul.
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