Bread Upon The Waters

by Peter Reinhart

From this internationally known master baker, this book offers a spiritual look at life and an incisive examination of the soul through a detailed presentation of the twelve steps of bread making.

Genres: Spirituality

208 pages, Hardcover

First published January 6, 2000

About the author

Peter Reinhart is a master baker, educator, and award-winning author, renowned for his deep exploration of bread and pizza. His books, including The Bread Baker’s Apprentice, American Pie: My Search for the Perfect Pizza, and Bread Revolution, have redefined the way people think about baking. With multiple James Beard Awards under his belt, he is considered one of the most influential voices in the world of bread and artisan baking.
A passionate teacher, Peter serves as a Chef on Assignment at Johnson & Wales University, where he shares his expertise with aspiring bakers. He has also worked as a consultant for major food brands, helped develop innovative baking techniques, and even delivered a TED Talk on the transformative power of bread.
His lifelong quest for the perfect pizza led him on a journey across the U.S. and Italy, documented in American Pie, and continues through Pizza Quest, a blog where he explores the art and craft of pizza-making.
Peter’s work goes beyond recipes—he delves into the history, science, and philosophy of baking, believing that bread is not just food but a metaphor for transformation and discovery. Whether you’re a home baker, a professional, or just someone who loves a good loaf, his books offer inspiration, technique, and a deep appreciation for the magic of fermentation.

Reviews

[Hadyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read three books now that use the process of breadbaking to try and explain the process of faith. So far this one is the best. It's deeply personal while at the same time drawing upon the author's vast knowledge of theology and philosophy. While his particular brand of Christianity is not my cup of tea, Reinhart can look back over his life and share his wisdom about bread and faith in a way Preston Yancey in early adulthood and Shauna Niequist in middle adulthood cannot (the other two authors whose books share a similar structure and theme).

[Yousseif Abdellatif · Rating 4 out of 5]

Look, I figured Bread Upon The Waters would be a quick palate cleanser, and instead Peter Reinhart had me rereading paragraphs out loud like a weirdo. The prose is dense but never showy. Great for people who like to chew on a sentence, rough for anyone skimming on the bus.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm finding this book very interesting right now. I was quite intrigued by his references to religion in his whole grain book, and since I am a religious person myself, wanted to read what he had to say on the subject. While I am enjoying the book, he goes a little thick on the mystical/orthodox references, which I am unfamiliar with. However, I have been able to make some connections between his beliefs and mine and it is interesting to read about his progression spiritually and to compare it to mine.

[Phyllis Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful spirit in this author/baker/spiritual seeker-