Quick Take

"Since her debut with The Small Rain in 1945, L'Engle has continued to write critically acclaimed books for adults and young readers, including a Newbery Medal-winner, A Wrinkle in Time. But this story of her marriage surpasses her best work so far. Starting with accounts of her childhood, she describes her life as a young woman in Manhattan, attracted to the theater and landing a job as an understudy touring with Eva Le Gallienne and Hugh Franklin. L'Engle and Franklin married in 1946, creating a bond that was broken ony by his death 40 years later. As Franklin's roles (with the Lunts, Ethel Barrymore, Maurice Evans, etc.) kept him absent frequently, there were problems, especially when they became parents. Yet most crises were viewed in perspective, especially when the couple gathered with children, grandchildren and friends at Crosswick, the old house in Connecticut that remains L'Engle's "icon." As expected, she writes beautifully here, sharing funny, exuberant and trying moments of the 'two-part invention.' Reading the book is a profound spiritual experience." From Publishers Weekly.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Two-Part Invention: The Story of a Marriage (Crosswicks Journals, #4)

Introduction

"Two-Part Invention: The Story of a Marriage" by Madeleine L'Engle is a beautiful and profound memoir that delves into the author's 40-year marriage to Hugh Franklin. This book is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the importance of friendship, companionship, and spiritual growth in a long-term relationship. L'Engle's writing style is engaging and captivating, drawing readers into the world of her marriage and offering valuable insights into the nature of love and its challenges.

About Madeleine L'Engle

Madeleine L'Engle, the author of "Two-Part Invention," is an American writer best known for her young adult fiction, particularly the Newbery Medal-winning "A Wrinkle in Time" and its sequels. Her works reflect her strong interest in modern science, and she often incorporates scientific concepts into her stories. L'Engle was born in 1918 and spent her formative years in New York City, where she discovered her passion for writing. She went on to attend Smith College and later became a librarian at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine. Throughout her life, L'Engle maintained a deep connection to her faith and incorporated it into her writing.

Analysis of Views

Beautiful and Profound Writing: Readers rave about L'Engle's ability to write beautifully and profoundly about her marriage. They appreciate her use of language and her ability to convey complex emotions and ideas with grace and clarity.
Insights into Love and Marriage: Many readers find the book to be a valuable source of insights into the nature of love and marriage. L'Engle's reflections on the growth of love, the importance of friendship, and the challenges faced in a long-term relationship resonate deeply with readers.
Personal Connection: Readers feel a personal connection with L'Engle's story, relating to her experiences as a writer, wife, mother, and grandmother. They appreciate her honesty and vulnerability in sharing her struggles and triumphs.
Timeless Wisdom: L'Engle's writing is often described as timeless, as she draws from her own experiences and weaves them into a larger tapestry of wisdom about life, love, and faith. Readers appreciate her ability to offer profound insights that transcend time and speak to the universal human experience.
Universal Appeal: The book appeals to readers of all ages, from young adults to adults. Its themes of love, loss, and growth resonate with readers from diverse backgrounds and experiences, making it a book that can be enjoyed by anyone seeking a deeper understanding of relationships and the human condition.

Reasons for Recommendation

Beautiful Writing: L'Engle's writing style is praised for its beauty and profundity, making it a pleasure to read. Her ability to convey complex emotions and ideas in a poetic and accessible manner makes the book highly recommended for those who appreciate beautiful prose.
Insightful Reflections: Readers find value in L'Engle's reflections on love, marriage, and the human experience. Her insights offer a deeper understanding of the challenges faced in relationships and provide guidance on how to navigate them with grace and resilience.
Personal Connection: The book resonates deeply with readers due to its personal nature. L'Engle's honesty and vulnerability create a sense of connection with her story, making it relatable and emotionally impactful for readers who can relate to her experiences as a writer, wife, mother, and grandmother.
Timeless Wisdom: L'Engle's writing transcends time, offering timeless wisdom that speaks to universal human experiences. Her insights into love, loss, and growth are applicable to readers from all walks of life, making it a book that can be enjoyed by anyone seeking deeper understanding and guidance in their relationships.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Authenticity: Some readers feel that the book lacks authenticity due to its idealized portrayal of L'Engle's marriage. They believe that the true story of their relationship may have been left untold or glossed over in favor of presenting an idyllic image. This lack of authenticity detracts from the overall impact of the book for some readers.
Theological Perspective: L'Engle's theological perspective may not resonate with all readers. While some appreciate her incorporation of faith into her writing, others may find it problematic or uncomfortable due to their own beliefs or perspectives on religion. This aspect may be a barrier for readers who are not open to exploring religious themes in their reading material.

Conclusion

"Two-Part Invention: The Story of a Marriage" by Madeleine L'Engle is a beautiful memoir that offers profound insights into love, marriage, and the human experience. L'Engle's writing style is engaging and captivating, drawing readers into her world with its beauty and profundity. While some readers may find the book lacking in authenticity or uncomfortable with its religious themes, overall it is highly recommended for those seeking deeper understanding and guidance in their relationships. L'Engle's timeless wisdom and personal connection make this book a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration, guidance, or simply a beautiful read that transcends time and speaks to the universal human experience.