In Prayers that Changed History, Tricia Goyer introduces 25 historical figures and the significant role of prayer in their lives. Each concise chapter presents a notable individual whose prayers for strength and guidance had far-reaching consequences. Arranged chronologically, the characters span a wide swath of history from the first century (Polycarp) to the twentieth (Dietrich Bonhoeffer) and include the familiar (Christopher Columbus, Florence Nightingale, Helen Keller) as well as the lesser-known (Robert Raikes, George Muller, Billy Sunday). The British people of WWII are recognized collectively. Author Tricia Goyer employs a narrative style with imagined dialogue that is likely to hold the interest and attention of independent readers. Her intent to show prayer-at-work is achieved through these compelling biographic profiles, biblical parallels, and referenced sources. Something to Think About and Your Life headings direct readers to reflect, discuss, and relate personally to the power of prayer. Though suggested for a grade and middle school audience, Prayers that Changed History would be a compelling and enjoyable book for all ages, particularly history enthusiasts. Some of the chapters include more mature themes such as the suicide of Adolf Hitler, Nazi death camps, the red light district of Chicago, and the enslavement of young girls in India. Small photos, graphics, and text boxes, use of varied font, and an easy-to-follow table of contents adds to the pleasant readability of this enlightening book. Nina Ditmar, CLJ * Christian Library Journal *
It might be hard to make the power of prayer accessible to young readers, but it's even harder to make it entertaining. Goyer succeeds on both fronts in her anthology of 24 Christian individuals (plus the British people of WWII) who, she contends, changed the course of history through prayer. Arranged chronologically, the profiles feature such famous figures as Sojourner Truth, Helen Keller, and Mother Teresa as well as such lesser-known but equally important figures as John Newton, who found God's mercy during a near-death experience aboard a ship and began to see the evils of the slave trade. Each profile begins with a short fictionalized narrative that describes a difficult situation and how prayer helped the individual overcome the adversity. Although thought-provoking, the author doesn't indicate that she is reimaging scenes from history. She follows with questions that connect the reader to the narrative, direct quotes, biblical connections on the same theme, and inspirational guided prayer topics. While geared for Christian readers, history buffs will also enjoy the unique angle. --- Angela Leeper * Booklist *
