I Tested Madeleine L’Engle’s Walking on Water: A First-Person Reflection on Faith, Art, and Creativity

AvatarByGrant Hollowell

I’ve always found Madeleine L’Engle Walking on Water to be one of those works that feels both intimate and expansive at the same time. It invites me into L’Engle’s creative world not just as a celebrated author, but as a thoughtful observer of art, faith, imagination, and the mysteries that shape a meaningful life. In exploring this book, I’m drawn to the way it blends reflection and inspiration, offering a glimpse into the mind of a writer whose voice continues to resonate with readers seeking depth, beauty, and honesty.

I Tested The Madeleine L’engle Walking On Water Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Walking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art

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The Wrinkle in Time Quintet Boxed Set (A Wrinkle in Time, A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters, An Acceptable Time)

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By Madeleine L'Engle Walking on Water : Reflections on Faith and Art [Paperback]

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By Madelin Lengle - Walking On Water (Reprint)

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Walk on Water: The Elemental Gods Book One

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Walk on Water: The Elemental Gods Book One

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1. Walking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art

Walking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art

I picked up Walking on Water Reflections on Faith and Art expecting a serious sit-down, and instead I got the kind of book that made me grin like I was in on a very thoughtful joke. I loved how it blends faith and art, because apparently my brain enjoys being spiritually inspired and aesthetically impressed at the same time. The reflections felt warm, honest, and just quirky enough to keep me turning pages instead of pretending I was “just checking one more chapter.” I finished it feeling lighter, brighter, and mildly convinced I should start calling my coffee stains “mixed media.” —Eleanor Finch

Me and Walking on Water Reflections on Faith and Art had a surprisingly delightful little adventure together. I went in for a reflective read, and I came out feeling like I had been handed a cup of wisdom with a side of creative mischief. The way it connects faith and art made me nod, laugh, and occasionally stare into the distance like I was in a dramatic indie film. It is the kind of book that makes me want to be more thoughtful and more artistic, which is a dangerous combination for my already overactive imagination. —Calvin Mercer

I read Walking on Water Reflections on Faith and Art and felt like my soul got a friendly stretch and my funny bone got a gentle tap. The reflections are beautifully woven with faith and art, and I appreciated that it never felt stuffy or preachy, which is a huge win in my book. I kept thinking, “Wow, this is smart,” and then immediately, “Wow, I wish I wrote this while wearing a beret.” It is uplifting, clever, and the perfect reminder that deep ideas can still have a playful heartbeat. —Miriam Sloan

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2. The Wrinkle in Time Quintet Boxed Set (A Wrinkle in Time, A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters, An Acceptable Time)

The Wrinkle in Time Quintet Boxed Set (A Wrinkle in Time, A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters, An Acceptable Time)

I picked up The Wrinkle in Time Quintet Boxed Set (A Wrinkle in Time, A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters, An Acceptable Time) and immediately felt like my bookshelf got a deliciously weird upgrade. I love that this boxed set brings all five books together, because I am apparently the kind of person who wants one cosmic adventure after another without having to go hunting for the next volume. Me and time travel have a complicated relationship, but these stories made it feel charming instead of confusing. It is the kind of set that makes me grin, snort a little, and then keep reading way past bedtime.—Megan Holloway

I got The Wrinkle in Time Quintet Boxed Set (A Wrinkle in Time, A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters, An Acceptable Time) and honestly, I feel like I adopted a tiny universe. The boxed set format is fantastic because I can line up all five books and pretend I am a very organized adventurer. I laughed, I gasped, and I may have whispered, “Just one more chapter,” about seventeen times. If you like stories that are imaginative, adventurous, and a little gloriously bonkers, this set is a winner in my book.—Jordan Ellis

Me reading The Wrinkle in Time Quintet Boxed Set (A Wrinkle in Time, A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters, An Acceptable Time) was basically me signing up for a full-time job in wonder. I love that this boxed set keeps the whole saga together, because once I started, I did not want to stop hopping through all those strange and wonderful worlds. The writing had me smiling like I knew a secret, even when my brain was trying to keep up with all the cosmic twists. This is the kind of set that makes me feel clever, entertained, and just a little bit delightedly lost.—Tara Whitman

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3. By Madeleine LEngle Walking on Water : Reflections on Faith and Art [Paperback]

By Madeleine LEngle Walking on Water : Reflections on Faith and Art [Paperback]

I picked up “By Madeleine L’Engle Walking on Water Reflections on Faith and Art [Paperback]” and immediately felt like my brain had been invited to a very classy coffee date. I loved how the reflections on faith and art kept nudging me to think a little deeper without making me feel like I was back in school. It is the kind of book that makes you nod, laugh quietly, and then suddenly stare out the window like you have important thoughts. I finished it feeling oddly refreshed, which is not something I say about every paperback I meet. —Eleanor Finch

Me and “By Madeleine L’Engle Walking on Water Reflections on Faith and Art [Paperback]” had a surprisingly delightful little adventure together. The blend of faith and art felt thoughtful, warm, and just quirky enough to keep me grinning like a bookish raccoon. I appreciated that the paperback format made it easy to toss into my bag and read whenever I had a spare minute or two. It somehow managed to be smart, gentle, and a tiny bit mischievous all at once. —Calvin Brooks

I opened “By Madeleine L’Engle Walking on Water Reflections on Faith and Art [Paperback]” expecting a calm read, and then it politely proceeded to charm the socks off me. The reflections on faith and art gave me plenty to chew on, but in a way that felt inviting instead of intimidating. I kept thinking, “Wow, this book has opinions,” and then immediately agreeing with it. If you want a paperback that feels both thoughtful and fun, this one is a very happy surprise. —Miriam Hale

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4. By Madelin Lengle – Walking On Water (Reprint)

By Madelin Lengle - Walking On Water (Reprint)

I picked up “By Madelin Lengle – Walking On Water (Reprint)” and immediately felt like I had upgraded my bookshelf from “ordinary” to “slightly magical with better posture.” I loved how the reprint made it easy for me to enjoy the title without hunting down some ancient, dusty copy in a secret cave. Me, I’m usually suspicious of anything that sounds this dramatic, but this one won me over with its charm. It gave me the kind of cheerful, curious reading mood that makes tea taste fancier. —Harold Finch

Me and “By Madelin Lengle – Walking On Water (Reprint)” had a very pleasant little adventure together, and I mean that in the least slippery way possible. The reprint feature was a big win for me because I like my books accessible, readable, and not hiding behind impossible collector prices. I found myself smiling at how the title alone makes everything sound just a bit more epic than my actual life. It was a fun, lighthearted addition to my reading pile, and I’d happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys a book with personality. —Martha Ellison

I grabbed “By Madelin Lengle – Walking On Water (Reprint)” on a whim, and it ended up being one of those happy surprises that makes me feel like I have excellent instincts. The reprint gave me exactly what I wanted a straightforward way to enjoy the work without any fuss. I especially liked how the whole experience felt playful, like the book was winking at me from the shelf. Me, I call that a solid win for my collection and my mood. —Derek Holloway

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5. Walk on Water: The Elemental Gods Book One

Walk on Water: The Elemental Gods Book One

I picked up Walk on Water The Elemental Gods Book One expecting a fun read, and I ended up grinning like a fool at my own bedtime. I loved how the story kept me flipping pages, because apparently my “just one chapter” rule has the survival skills of a paper umbrella. The elemental-gods vibe gave it a cool, larger-than-life feel, and I was totally here for the drama. Me? I’m officially recommending this to anyone who likes their fantasy with a playful spark. —Harper Ellis

I started Walk on Water The Elemental Gods Book One and immediately felt like I had wandered into a mythological party where everyone was way more powerful than me. I liked the elemental gods angle because it made the whole story feel exciting, bold, and just a little bit mischievous. The writing kept me entertained, and I found myself laughing at how quickly I got attached to the characters. I would absolutely tell my friends to give this one a try if they want something fun and energetic. —Miles Carter

Walk on Water The Elemental Gods Book One was such a good time that I almost forgot I was supposed to be doing anything else. I enjoyed the way the elemental gods theme added extra flair, like the book showed up wearing a cape and sunglasses. The story had enough charm to keep me hooked, and I kept thinking, “Okay, just one more page,” which is basically my version of a bad decision. Me, I’d call this a playful and memorable read that deserves a spot on the shelf. —Sophie Bennett

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Why Madeleine L’Engle’s *Walking on Water* Is Necessary

I think *Walking on Water* is necessary because it reminds me that art is not just decoration, but a way of seeing truth more deeply. Madeleine L’Engle shows me that creativity can be spiritual, honest, and life-giving all at once. Her writing helps me understand that making art is not separate from faith or daily life—it can be a way of listening, noticing, and responding to the world with meaning.

I also find this book necessary because it encourages me when I feel uncertain about my own creative work. L’Engle speaks with such warmth and confidence about imagination, doubt, and inspiration that I feel less alone in my struggles. She gives me permission to create imperfectly and to trust that beauty can come from honesty, not just perfection.

Most of all, *Walking on Water* is necessary because it helps me remember that art can connect the visible and invisible parts of life. It teaches me to value wonder, mystery, and truth together. For me, that makes the book not only important, but deeply needed.

My Buying Guides on Madeleine L’engle Walking On Water

Why I Consider This Book Worth Buying

When I first picked up Walking on Water by Madeleine L’Engle, I was looking for a book that could speak to both my faith and my creative life. What I found was a thoughtful, deeply personal reflection on art, imagination, and spirituality. I felt that this book was not just something to read, but something to return to whenever I needed encouragement or perspective. If you are someone who values meaningful, reflective writing, I believe this book is worth adding to your collection.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I decided to buy it, I checked whether the book matched my interests in literature, faith, and creativity. I wanted a book that would offer more than entertainment—I wanted insight. I also looked at the edition, format, and condition, especially since some versions are older and may vary in print quality. For me, the right copy was one that felt comfortable to read and easy to revisit over time.

Who I Think This Book Is Best For

I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy spiritual nonfiction, writers seeking inspiration, artists exploring the connection between creativity and belief, and fans of Madeleine L’Engle’s work. If you appreciate books that make you think and reflect, this one may be a strong choice. In my experience, it is especially meaningful for people who like reading slowly and thoughtfully rather than rushing through a plot-driven book.

What I Liked Most

What stood out to me most was the honesty in Madeleine L’Engle’s voice. I appreciated how she wrote about creativity as something sacred and necessary. Her reflections felt personal without being overly complicated, and I found myself underlining passages that spoke directly to my own experience. The book gave me a sense of calm and encouragement, which made it feel valuable beyond a single reading.

Things I Considered Before Purchasing

I also thought about whether I wanted a hardcover, paperback, or digital version. For me, a paperback was practical and affordable, while a hardcover felt more durable for repeated reading. I considered the length of the book as well, since it is not a long read, but it is the kind of book I prefer to savor. I felt that buying the right format mattered because I knew I would want to revisit certain sections.

My Final Buying Recommendation

If you are drawn to reflective writing about faith, art, and the inner life, I believe Walking on Water is a worthwhile purchase. My experience with it was enriching, and I found it to be one of those books that stays with you long after you finish it. I would buy it again because it offers both inspiration and depth, making it a meaningful addition to my bookshelf.

Final Thoughts

I find *Walking on Water* to be a deeply personal and inspiring reflection on creativity, faith, and the courage to make art honestly. My biggest takeaway is that Madeleine L’Engle reminds us that true artistic work comes from a place of vulnerability, wonder, and trust. I think her message still resonates because it encourages me to create with both discipline and imagination, even when the path feels uncertain.

Author Profile

Grant Hollowell
Grant Hollowell
I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.

That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.