I really enjoyed We Write on Water by David Ackley. For a frustrated writer to travel back through time to meet Shakespeare and have a bunch of adventures is a fun construct, and I loved how playful this novel was while also exploring important ideas like how we'll be remembered over time.

We Write on Water is a short book about Ron, who wants to pursue writing poems but seems to have lost his enjoyment in doing so. Ron has a home, a steady relationship, friends, a job and a cat but doesn't feel satisfied in his life. He has a website where he publishes his poetry but doesn't feel like it's getting him anywhere. When he decides to take down the website, something strange happens that changes his view on life.

This book started a little slow, Ron's life isn't that interesting and the way Ron narrates it doesn't make it better. Maybe that was the point, but it doesn't make you want to keep reading. However, the story progresses in a very unexpected way, which was very fun and surprising! I would've liked it if Ron didn't spell everything out for the reader, it would've been more interesting and less predictable if we as the reader could guess and interpret more.
Lastly, I loved the comparison with nature in this book, that was beautifully done, and the story is often quite funny! Overall, I would recommend this book!

"We Write on Water" by David Ackley presents a unique and intriguing premise that immediately captures the imagination. The story follows Ron, a frustrated writer, who experiences a remarkable journey that takes him from the modern world to Elizabethan England.

The concept of slipping through time and encountering historical figures is always enticing, and in this case, Ron's encounter with a youth who will become a famous author promises to be a fascinating twist. This aspect of the narrative seems to provide a fresh perspective on the writing process and the idea that inspiration can come from unexpected sources.

The book also seems to explore themes of self-discovery and personal growth as Ron grapples with his own identity and learns more about what it means to be a poet. These themes are likely to resonate with readers who appreciate introspective and thought-provoking storytelling.

Moreover, the blend of contemporary and historical settings adds depth to the narrative, making it an appealing choice for readers who enjoy both contemporary and historical fiction.

Overall, "We Write on Water" appears to be a promising literary journey that combines elements of time travel, historical fiction, and introspection, all while delving into the world of writing and poetry. It has the potential to engage readers with its unique premise and thought-provoking themes.

What an inspiring novel. The story takes us on an interior journey with poet, Ron, as he struggles to get his work published. His frustrations are out there for everyone to see on a blog he maintains that has become more a therapy sessions! We learn about Ron's thoughts and feelings as he goes about his daily life and even the little year-end ritual he has where he tears up all of his rejection letters and scatters them to the winds. He's been doing that for years but this time he slips on the ice over a Wisconsin lake. He wakes up fully conscious but no longer in his own body, no longer in his own time period and no longer in control of anything other than the ability to hear and observe his "host". His adventures as he experiences Elizabethan daily life from a workman's perspective and vicariously meets a few of the villagers, including a young William Shakespeare. Once he returns home his perception on what it might take to succeed and even what success means has changed dramatically. You'll enjoy Ron's discoveries, the ride through his mind, and the creativeness of this story! Pick it up and give it a read; it's worthwhile if only for the positive spin it takes at the end.