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Stepping Heavenward [with Biographical Introduction]
"Stepping Heavenward" is the fictional coming of age story of a young Christian girl named Katherine. The story follows her life from when she is sixteen, though courtship, engagement, marriage, having children, and the many challenges that she confronts in her adult life. This classic Christian story is told through a series of journal entries by Katherine and is an inspirational tale for young girls who themselves are facing the very same challenges of growing up.
156 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1880
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About the author
Elizabeth Payson Prentiss
51 books111 followersELIZABETH PRENTISS (1818 -1878) was the daughter of an early nineteenth-century revival preacher and began writing as a teenager. Born in 1818 in Portland, Maine, Prentiss was also the writer of the hymn "More Love to Thee, O Christ." Prentiss died in Vermont in 1878.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 702 reviews
March 2, 2017
Since I'm apparently the first guy to read this book in recent recorded history, I feel somewhat obligated to try and give it a thorough review. Unfortunately, the fact that I ended up reading it in two parts, over the space about five months, makes that somewhat difficult. Still, I will do my best.
At times, especially in the early going, this approached a four-star read for me. I love character studies, especially ones in historical settings, and since this was of course written at a time contemporary with its setting, I'm assuming it can be relied upon to give a fairly accurate picture of the life and perspectives of New-England Christians in the mid-nineteenth century. Its value in this connection is significant, and is a large part of what held my interest through about two-thirds of the book.
One of the most fascinating things to me about the historical element was how a woman of the time would not refer to pregnancy at all, not even in her private journal. The appearance of her babies on the scene was always a complete surprise to me, and sometimes it took a bit for me to figure out what she was talking about, even after they were born!
As others have noted, the latter third of the book gets to be a little tiresome, that being the reason I left off reading it for about four months. In my view, the book could have, and should have been shorter: there was a great deal of repetition, which probably added to the reader's experience of Katy's life (she keeps going over and over the same ground, spiritually) but it makes it rather difficult to get through in places.
My main reason for picking up this book, actually, is that the author, Elizabeth Payson Prentiss, also penned More Love to Thee O Christ, a hymn of consecration that is an enduring favorite of mine. From this fact, and from the title, I expected sanctification to be a major topic, and this indeed proved to be the case. Sometimes, I felt the author handled the subject fairly well, but in the main, I was slightly out of harmony with her perspectives.
It seems to me that, if this book is a faithful representation of the practical theology of New England Christians in the Victorian era, then theirs was often a pretty bleak and dismal faith. While it's true that God uses suffering to refine us, I don't believe this is the only tool in His box, so to speak. Nor do I believe, as seems to be presented, that it is only possible to achieve truly Christlike character through a life spent in silent submission to extremely trying circumstances.
The other major perspective that I couldn't really agree with, was the related idea that sanctification is, and should be expected to be, very gradual, coming as a result suffering, and of our efforts at maintaining spiritual disciplines. Sometimes, when the protagonist went to her spiritual mentors for advice, I got the feeling that that advice amounted to "keep on trying," which is a perfect recipe for failure and frustration. What I felt was missing from the theology of these characters, was an understanding of the person and work of the Holy Spirit. It is not up to us to sanctify ourselves, only to yield to God's work in our lives, to be emptied of ourselves, and filled with Christ. I felt that if the main character had been led to grasp this truth, she could have avoided a great deal of the Romans-7-style wrangling she seemed to be engaged in for much of the book.
On the positive side, this book does contain some beautiful portraits of submission, made even more meaningful by the knowledge that the author's life was at least as tragic as her main character's, and perhaps even more so. The fact that she could express such sentiments as those contained in this book, and in her best-known hymn, testifies to me of the work of the Spirit in her life, even if she wasn't fully conscious of it.
Even though, by the end, I was more than ready for the book to be over, I'm not sorry I commenced to read it. I do not think it really deserves the "ladies-only" reputation it seems to have acquired; readers of either gender could enjoy it, provided they have an appreciation for character study and theological reflection, and don't mind wading through the slow parts. (Oh, and provided they can stand reading about how it took a couple about the first ten years of their marriage to figure out they should, like, talk to each other and stuff. Who knew?)
One final note: the free version of this book on Kindle (or at least, the one I got) has a lot of typos, which can make for choppy reading. I would recommend getting a library copy, or buying a better Kindle version.
At times, especially in the early going, this approached a four-star read for me. I love character studies, especially ones in historical settings, and since this was of course written at a time contemporary with its setting, I'm assuming it can be relied upon to give a fairly accurate picture of the life and perspectives of New-England Christians in the mid-nineteenth century. Its value in this connection is significant, and is a large part of what held my interest through about two-thirds of the book.
One of the most fascinating things to me about the historical element was how a woman of the time would not refer to pregnancy at all, not even in her private journal. The appearance of her babies on the scene was always a complete surprise to me, and sometimes it took a bit for me to figure out what she was talking about, even after they were born!
As others have noted, the latter third of the book gets to be a little tiresome, that being the reason I left off reading it for about four months. In my view, the book could have, and should have been shorter: there was a great deal of repetition, which probably added to the reader's experience of Katy's life (she keeps going over and over the same ground, spiritually) but it makes it rather difficult to get through in places.
My main reason for picking up this book, actually, is that the author, Elizabeth Payson Prentiss, also penned More Love to Thee O Christ, a hymn of consecration that is an enduring favorite of mine. From this fact, and from the title, I expected sanctification to be a major topic, and this indeed proved to be the case. Sometimes, I felt the author handled the subject fairly well, but in the main, I was slightly out of harmony with her perspectives.
It seems to me that, if this book is a faithful representation of the practical theology of New England Christians in the Victorian era, then theirs was often a pretty bleak and dismal faith. While it's true that God uses suffering to refine us, I don't believe this is the only tool in His box, so to speak. Nor do I believe, as seems to be presented, that it is only possible to achieve truly Christlike character through a life spent in silent submission to extremely trying circumstances.
The other major perspective that I couldn't really agree with, was the related idea that sanctification is, and should be expected to be, very gradual, coming as a result suffering, and of our efforts at maintaining spiritual disciplines. Sometimes, when the protagonist went to her spiritual mentors for advice, I got the feeling that that advice amounted to "keep on trying," which is a perfect recipe for failure and frustration. What I felt was missing from the theology of these characters, was an understanding of the person and work of the Holy Spirit. It is not up to us to sanctify ourselves, only to yield to God's work in our lives, to be emptied of ourselves, and filled with Christ. I felt that if the main character had been led to grasp this truth, she could have avoided a great deal of the Romans-7-style wrangling she seemed to be engaged in for much of the book.
On the positive side, this book does contain some beautiful portraits of submission, made even more meaningful by the knowledge that the author's life was at least as tragic as her main character's, and perhaps even more so. The fact that she could express such sentiments as those contained in this book, and in her best-known hymn, testifies to me of the work of the Spirit in her life, even if she wasn't fully conscious of it.
Even though, by the end, I was more than ready for the book to be over, I'm not sorry I commenced to read it. I do not think it really deserves the "ladies-only" reputation it seems to have acquired; readers of either gender could enjoy it, provided they have an appreciation for character study and theological reflection, and don't mind wading through the slow parts. (Oh, and provided they can stand reading about how it took a couple about the first ten years of their marriage to figure out they should, like, talk to each other and stuff. Who knew?)
One final note: the free version of this book on Kindle (or at least, the one I got) has a lot of typos, which can make for choppy reading. I would recommend getting a library copy, or buying a better Kindle version.
March 21, 2025
I think this was my 5th trip through this Christian classic. It never disappoints.
June 1, 2007
a fictional diary from the point of view of a Christian teenage girl who is hot-tempered and overanalytical (sounds like me!)... the story follows her as she truly dedicates her life to Christ, although she grew up in a believing family, and as she goes through life. first love, marriage, family and more... loved this book.
brothers... it's not just a book for girls. if ur interested in figuring out a little of the way the mind of a gal works, please read it. she's so honest with her feelings and the way her temperament swiftly changes according to small actions by her husband. i loved seeing how marriage sanctifies a person... not that i'm ready! but now i get it. =)
read it.
brothers... it's not just a book for girls. if ur interested in figuring out a little of the way the mind of a gal works, please read it. she's so honest with her feelings and the way her temperament swiftly changes according to small actions by her husband. i loved seeing how marriage sanctifies a person... not that i'm ready! but now i get it. =)
read it.
February 1, 2025
I'd give this book 10 stars if I could, it's definitely the most encouraging, eye-opening book I've ever read. 🩷
"But you will imagine that it is best that He should at once enable you to see clearly. If it is, you may be sure He will do it. He never makes mistakes. But He often deals far differently with His disciples. He lets them grope their way in the dark until they fully learn how blind they are, how helpless, how absolutely in need of Him. What His methods will be with you I cannot foretell. But you may be sure that He never works in an arbitrary way. He has a reason for everything He does. You may not understand why He leads you now in this way and now in that, but you may, nay, you must believe that perfection is stamped on His every act.”
"But you will imagine that it is best that He should at once enable you to see clearly. If it is, you may be sure He will do it. He never makes mistakes. But He often deals far differently with His disciples. He lets them grope their way in the dark until they fully learn how blind they are, how helpless, how absolutely in need of Him. What His methods will be with you I cannot foretell. But you may be sure that He never works in an arbitrary way. He has a reason for everything He does. You may not understand why He leads you now in this way and now in that, but you may, nay, you must believe that perfection is stamped on His every act.”
January 20, 2025
“That crowning joy has come to me at last. Christ is in my soul; He is mine; I am as conscious of it as that my husband and children are mine; and His Spirit flows forth from mine in the calm peace of a river whose banks are green with grass and glad with flowers. If I die, it will be to leave a wearied and worn body and a sinful soul to go joyfully to be with Christ, to weary and to sin no more. If I live, I shall find much blessed work to do for Him. So living or dying, I shall be the Lord’s.” ❤️
First off, I just need to say that I want to be Elizabeth Prentiss (can someone write a book called Becoming Elizabeth Prentiss now??). The intro itself about who she was and what her life was about is pure gold, and now I want to get my hands on all she’s written. Can I adopt her as my dead mentor? Doing it 😂
Such a delightful book!! The journey of Katherine’s sanctification from age 16 to her deathbed with all the drama, joys and sorrows she endured throughout life was relatable, convicting, sobering, and encouraging.
This is one of my favorite interactions between Katy and her mother:
Dear child,” she said, “how I pity you that you have inherited my quick, irritable temper.”
“Yours, Mother!” I cried out. “What can you mean?”
Mother smiled a little at my surprise.
“It is even so,” she said.
“Then how did you cure yourself of it? Tell me quick, Mother, and let me cure myself of mine.”
“My dear Katy,” she said, “I wish I could make you see that God is just as willing and just as able to sanctify as He is to redeem us. It would save you so much weary, disappointing work. But God has opened my eyes at last.” 🥹❤️
First off, I just need to say that I want to be Elizabeth Prentiss (can someone write a book called Becoming Elizabeth Prentiss now??). The intro itself about who she was and what her life was about is pure gold, and now I want to get my hands on all she’s written. Can I adopt her as my dead mentor? Doing it 😂
Such a delightful book!! The journey of Katherine’s sanctification from age 16 to her deathbed with all the drama, joys and sorrows she endured throughout life was relatable, convicting, sobering, and encouraging.
This is one of my favorite interactions between Katy and her mother:
Dear child,” she said, “how I pity you that you have inherited my quick, irritable temper.”
“Yours, Mother!” I cried out. “What can you mean?”
Mother smiled a little at my surprise.
“It is even so,” she said.
“Then how did you cure yourself of it? Tell me quick, Mother, and let me cure myself of mine.”
“My dear Katy,” she said, “I wish I could make you see that God is just as willing and just as able to sanctify as He is to redeem us. It would save you so much weary, disappointing work. But God has opened my eyes at last.” 🥹❤️
January 21, 2019
While I read this several times as a teenager, I have been wanting to reread it now that I’m in the season of wifehood and motherhood. It was just as inspiring, challenging, encouraging, and relatable this time around, and I was indeed able to better understand some of Katy’s struggles as a wife and mother. May God work that likeness of Himself in me!
This book is a journey. Katy doesn’t always make the right choices or have the right view of God or herself, and therefore everything she says in this book must be weighed against Scripture. Yet God changes her many flawed ideas of Him until she is indeed resting in His work in and through her. May I rest in His work in me so!
This book is a journey. Katy doesn’t always make the right choices or have the right view of God or herself, and therefore everything she says in this book must be weighed against Scripture. Yet God changes her many flawed ideas of Him until she is indeed resting in His work in and through her. May I rest in His work in me so!
did-not-finish
October 9, 2020Good news: If you are looking for a free audiobook, Theresa L. Downey did a fantastic job! It's one of the better Librivox recordings I've listened to.
Bad News: I wanted to love this book so much. I stuck it out to the half-way point but then... I was just so mad. Katie has a lot of faults I loved how realistically that was portrayed. However, when she is hurt or frustrated, everyone just said that she has a problem. The last straw came when her father-in-law says she is to attached to her infant son.
I appreciate the realistic way this book was written, but I wished Katie's husband would have stood up for her instead of telling her his sister would do a better job of running things anyway. Or that her mother and pastor would have given her words in encouragement as well as admonishment.
I might try this book again, after all, there is a lot in here to admire. But I'm setting it aside for now.
Bad News: I wanted to love this book so much. I stuck it out to the half-way point but then... I was just so mad. Katie has a lot of faults I loved how realistically that was portrayed. However, when she is hurt or frustrated, everyone just said that she has a problem. The last straw came when her father-in-law says she is to attached to her infant son.
I appreciate the realistic way this book was written, but I wished Katie's husband would have stood up for her instead of telling her his sister would do a better job of running things anyway. Or that her mother and pastor would have given her words in encouragement as well as admonishment.
I might try this book again, after all, there is a lot in here to admire. But I'm setting it aside for now.
November 6, 2017
Am I really the only one who wasn't a huge fan of this book?? It was okay for a while. But it dragged... and dragged... and dragged. I WAS SO DONE. And it was kind of preachy and JUST NOT MY KIND OF BOOK. Sorry.
.
.
.
No, I'm not really sorry.
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.
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But don't be mad at me, though. xp
October 22, 2016
I read this book a long time ago, then decided to re-read it after Kate (https://onceuponanordinary.wordpress.com) mentioned it during a recent blogging party.
Overall I think this book has some amazing points. I especially like the first half, or maybe two thirds. The main character is someone who I relate to on a lot of levels (although I don't get quite as horrified with myself as she does). She learns a lot of good lessons during the books, and therefore it's practical.
Unfortunately, the book has a habit of dragging on. And on. And on. The story is written as a journal, and there are times when six or seven years are skipped at once. To me that kind of ruins the flow, and I'd have liked it much more if the book would have ended much sooner than it did. I ended up skimming a lot of the last 30 pages or so.
The book also contains some very "good" examples of how important it is to communicate, because the characters don't communicate. at. all. And it drives me nuts. It causes so much stress when people don't talk and let miscommunications fester.
I was also reading an e-version of the book, and there were tons of weird spellings, typos, and strange characters thrown in there, so I didn't actually get the full book, because some sentences I simply couldn't read.
Overall I think this book has some amazing points. I especially like the first half, or maybe two thirds. The main character is someone who I relate to on a lot of levels (although I don't get quite as horrified with myself as she does). She learns a lot of good lessons during the books, and therefore it's practical.
Unfortunately, the book has a habit of dragging on. And on. And on. The story is written as a journal, and there are times when six or seven years are skipped at once. To me that kind of ruins the flow, and I'd have liked it much more if the book would have ended much sooner than it did. I ended up skimming a lot of the last 30 pages or so.
The book also contains some very "good" examples of how important it is to communicate, because the characters don't communicate. at. all. And it drives me nuts. It causes so much stress when people don't talk and let miscommunications fester.
I was also reading an e-version of the book, and there were tons of weird spellings, typos, and strange characters thrown in there, so I didn't actually get the full book, because some sentences I simply couldn't read.
Read
February 23, 2023Loved this book. It was ever better the second time around. Now I want to have a whole passel of kids and spend my days loving them, seeking the Lord, and keeping a journal! :)
January 19, 2021
I'm undecided as to whether I should give this book 3 or 4 stars.
This is definitely one of those books that makes you think. Everytime I sat down to read it, I was thinking about my own life and comparing it to the life in the book. This is one girl's journal chronicling her sanctification. Many quit reading the book before the half-way point but that is before she really starts her upward journey so I would encourage you to persevere to the end.
Reading Stepping Heavenward definitely encouraged me in my own Christian walk. I want to conquer my anger as she does. I want to be able to say "Not my will! Not my will! But Thine!"
Her learned patience with having extended family living in her home is such a good picture of "bearing one another's burden's."I think that's the reason so many like this book, they see themselves in it and are encouraged by a real raw example of the Christian life.
My favorite part of the book is probably the many conversations she has with her father-in-law, showing him the freedom we can have in Christ. We do not have to stand guilty before God, we can turn to Christ who has paid the penalty for our sins.
Reasons I didn't like it: Especially in the beginning there was some questionable theology.
It was a bit dry at points.
This is definitely one of those books that makes you think. Everytime I sat down to read it, I was thinking about my own life and comparing it to the life in the book. This is one girl's journal chronicling her sanctification. Many quit reading the book before the half-way point but that is before she really starts her upward journey so I would encourage you to persevere to the end.
Reading Stepping Heavenward definitely encouraged me in my own Christian walk. I want to conquer my anger as she does. I want to be able to say "Not my will! Not my will! But Thine!"
Her learned patience with having extended family living in her home is such a good picture of "bearing one another's burden's."I think that's the reason so many like this book, they see themselves in it and are encouraged by a real raw example of the Christian life.
My favorite part of the book is probably the many conversations she has with her father-in-law, showing him the freedom we can have in Christ. We do not have to stand guilty before God, we can turn to Christ who has paid the penalty for our sins.
Reasons I didn't like it: Especially in the beginning there was some questionable theology.
It was a bit dry at points.
March 21, 2016
I read this loads of times when I was around sixteen. Let me just say that most girls will relate with Katherine. Although I haven't read it for several years, this book has stuck with me all that time and I look back on it with a smile. When it starts I felt like I could side with Katherine. She understood how I felt!! But then when she started to change, I began to feel uncomfortable. I soon couldn't relate with her as much anymore.
Turning sixteen is a big deal for Katherine. With it brings uncertanties and trying to follow Christ. She learns much along the way, meets her husband to be, and diary follows her until she is married with kids. Besides certain places where there is a lot of dialogue (seemed odd she would remember a conversation she had heard word to word in her diary!), I was kept fascinated throughout the whole book.
One can't read this without feeling convicted. Even know I now I would be convicted reading this again!! Highly recommond to teen girls of all ages!
Turning sixteen is a big deal for Katherine. With it brings uncertanties and trying to follow Christ. She learns much along the way, meets her husband to be, and diary follows her until she is married with kids. Besides certain places where there is a lot of dialogue (seemed odd she would remember a conversation she had heard word to word in her diary!), I was kept fascinated throughout the whole book.
One can't read this without feeling convicted. Even know I now I would be convicted reading this again!! Highly recommond to teen girls of all ages!
March 2, 2017
Hard to imagine life in a time when so few children lived past infancy that they weren't named until after toddler ages and were only called "Baby".
This fictional journal of a young woman's life begins at age 16 and continues through her courtship, marriage, and motherhood. Main character Kate tells the raw details of heartache, despair, and fear as well as her joys as she seeks to devote her whole self to Christ.
This fictional journal of a young woman's life begins at age 16 and continues through her courtship, marriage, and motherhood. Main character Kate tells the raw details of heartache, despair, and fear as well as her joys as she seeks to devote her whole self to Christ.
June 26, 2025
First of all, how gorgeous is this special edition cover from @generations.min ? Huge thanks to them for sending this to me to read and review!
I don’t see this one talked about much on Bookstagram, but I saw @sweetsequels call it “the forgotten classic”—and I think that’s accurate!
We begin with Katy’s earliest entries as a teenager, where she pours out her insecurities, frustrations, and struggles—especially in her relationship with Christ, her mother, and her own temper. It reminded me of those heartfelt diary entries from girlhood, when I’d pour out my soul to the page and everything felt so important and intense in the moment… do you remember that, too?
I’ll be honest, it started a little slow for me, but once I adjusted to the format, I felt invested in Katy’s story. As she matures, we walk with her through failed courtship, various friendships, marriage, and motherhood. We see her grow and blossom… not just in her circumstances, but in her character and spiritual life. Her faith deepens as she wrestles with the people God places in her life, as well as other sorrows, sufferings, and learning how to love others well.
Some quick thoughts:
🌿 Katy, in some small ways, reminded me a little of Emma Lion—not spiritually speaking, but in some of her quirkiness.
🌿 Her transformational relationship with her father-in-law was beautiful.
🌿 Katy’s marriage wasn’t always easy, but it captured the give-and-take of a real marriage: the ebbs and flows, the adjustments, and the way love matures through time and trials.
Some parts of the journal felt a bit drawn out and I wish the ending gave us more time spent with Katy as she aged but overall, this was a beautiful and meaningful read! With so many Christian lessons and theological reflections woven throughout, you won’t read this without feeling challenged in your faith.
Highly recommend this sweet diary!
⚠️ Content: death of loved ones, grief, themes of suffering and sickness, loss of a child.
I don’t see this one talked about much on Bookstagram, but I saw @sweetsequels call it “the forgotten classic”—and I think that’s accurate!
We begin with Katy’s earliest entries as a teenager, where she pours out her insecurities, frustrations, and struggles—especially in her relationship with Christ, her mother, and her own temper. It reminded me of those heartfelt diary entries from girlhood, when I’d pour out my soul to the page and everything felt so important and intense in the moment… do you remember that, too?
I’ll be honest, it started a little slow for me, but once I adjusted to the format, I felt invested in Katy’s story. As she matures, we walk with her through failed courtship, various friendships, marriage, and motherhood. We see her grow and blossom… not just in her circumstances, but in her character and spiritual life. Her faith deepens as she wrestles with the people God places in her life, as well as other sorrows, sufferings, and learning how to love others well.
Some quick thoughts:
🌿 Katy, in some small ways, reminded me a little of Emma Lion—not spiritually speaking, but in some of her quirkiness.
🌿 Her transformational relationship with her father-in-law was beautiful.
🌿 Katy’s marriage wasn’t always easy, but it captured the give-and-take of a real marriage: the ebbs and flows, the adjustments, and the way love matures through time and trials.
Some parts of the journal felt a bit drawn out and I wish the ending gave us more time spent with Katy as she aged but overall, this was a beautiful and meaningful read! With so many Christian lessons and theological reflections woven throughout, you won’t read this without feeling challenged in your faith.
Highly recommend this sweet diary!
⚠️ Content: death of loved ones, grief, themes of suffering and sickness, loss of a child.
May 30, 2024
I last read this book in high school. I am now a wife and mother of young children and relate so much more to Katy than I did then. Perhaps this is a mark of my own growth in holiness since highschool. This will be one I will be returning to again and again. Such sweet words of encouragement in godliness for young wives and mothers especially. Such words of wisdom!
March 18, 2019
How refreshing it is to read a work of Christian fiction that's not simply masquerading as a "Christian" romance novel! Here we have a book that sets out to show the spiritual journey of one woman as she deals with various people and events (often tragic ones) in her life. It's a fictional depiction of someone's Christian worldview growing and developing and coming to bear on every moment of life. I certainly wish I could find more books like these in the Christian fiction realm.
As much as I liked most of the plot points and spiritual points in the book, I do think the journal format sometimes hindered the emotional impact of the story because it forced the author to do a lot of telling instead of showing. Some of the most tragic events in the story didn't grab me nearly as much as they could/should have because I as the reader had to hear about rather than see them. The author also resorted to some large time gaps that I felt negatively affected the story's pacing.
My one other criticism of the book is that it presents a weak view of reading novels and various other works of fiction (an incredibly ironic fact since Stepping Heavenward is itself technically fiction). Because the view is tucked in among many excellent spiritual truths, some may read this book and find themselves adopting the same attitude toward fiction reading. Some context first: many in the 19th century (the time period in which this book was written), including many Christians, held to the view that novel/fiction reading was dangerous, a waste of time, and/or good only as recreation (this view continues to exist today in certain circles, including Christian ones). Once the main character in this book is converted to Christianity, she comes to adopt the view that most fiction reading is now a waste of time. What fiction she does keep around she uses only for her times of personal recreation. In other words, the book presents the idea that the more a person grows spiritually, the more they will come to realize that fiction reading is something either to avoid entirely or to do very little of. While I recognize that a lot of garbage fiction was floating around in the 1800s, my problem is that Stepping Heavenward treats all fiction the same way (even Shakespeare doesn't escape!). And I believe that kind of position is misguided. Can fiction be dangerous? Yes, but not always. Can fiction be a waste of time to read? Yes, but not always. Can fiction be good for recreation? Yes, but much of it can (and is meant to!) rise so far above mere entertainment! I have read plenty of fiction that strengthened, not harmed me. I have read plenty of fiction that was absolutely well worth every minute I spent reading it. I have read fiction that shaped me morally, intellectually, and imaginatively for the better. I have read fiction to enjoy it as good, beautiful art that reflects and points to the glory of the great Artist. In fact, I have found that the more I grow spiritually, the more I gain from picking up a good work of fiction. So while Stepping Heavenward does get many things right, I that it gets this one point quite wrong.
To reiterate, however, this is still a great book overall! It is a credit to the Christian fiction genre, unlike most of what is published today. I am just very passionate about upholding the value of all good fiction. :-)
As much as I liked most of the plot points and spiritual points in the book, I do think the journal format sometimes hindered the emotional impact of the story because it forced the author to do a lot of telling instead of showing. Some of the most tragic events in the story didn't grab me nearly as much as they could/should have because I as the reader had to hear about rather than see them. The author also resorted to some large time gaps that I felt negatively affected the story's pacing.
My one other criticism of the book is that it presents a weak view of reading novels and various other works of fiction (an incredibly ironic fact since Stepping Heavenward is itself technically fiction). Because the view is tucked in among many excellent spiritual truths, some may read this book and find themselves adopting the same attitude toward fiction reading. Some context first: many in the 19th century (the time period in which this book was written), including many Christians, held to the view that novel/fiction reading was dangerous, a waste of time, and/or good only as recreation (this view continues to exist today in certain circles, including Christian ones). Once the main character in this book is converted to Christianity, she comes to adopt the view that most fiction reading is now a waste of time. What fiction she does keep around she uses only for her times of personal recreation. In other words, the book presents the idea that the more a person grows spiritually, the more they will come to realize that fiction reading is something either to avoid entirely or to do very little of. While I recognize that a lot of garbage fiction was floating around in the 1800s, my problem is that Stepping Heavenward treats all fiction the same way (even Shakespeare doesn't escape!). And I believe that kind of position is misguided. Can fiction be dangerous? Yes, but not always. Can fiction be a waste of time to read? Yes, but not always. Can fiction be good for recreation? Yes, but much of it can (and is meant to!) rise so far above mere entertainment! I have read plenty of fiction that strengthened, not harmed me. I have read plenty of fiction that was absolutely well worth every minute I spent reading it. I have read fiction that shaped me morally, intellectually, and imaginatively for the better. I have read fiction to enjoy it as good, beautiful art that reflects and points to the glory of the great Artist. In fact, I have found that the more I grow spiritually, the more I gain from picking up a good work of fiction. So while Stepping Heavenward does get many things right, I that it gets this one point quite wrong.
To reiterate, however, this is still a great book overall! It is a credit to the Christian fiction genre, unlike most of what is published today. I am just very passionate about upholding the value of all good fiction. :-)
February 25, 2015
"Stepping Heavenward" is a very realistic journey of the character's life from girlhood to womanhood. As a Christian, I found the points very identifiable. Just like a normal human, Kate struggled to apply Scripture to her life but there were mountain-tops amidst the struggles. As page 109 says, "I am like a child who cannot run to get what he wants but approaches it step by step, slowly, timidly - and yet approaches it. I am amazed at the patience of my blessed Master and Teacher, but how I love His school!"
December 6, 2017
Fantastic! I was brought to tears many times. This novel, written in a journal format, shows the sovereignty of God and the peace that comes in submitting to it. It's a beautiful look at a life spent walking with God.
The library copy I read had many typos. I would love to own the Lamplighter version!
A classic novel.
The library copy I read had many typos. I would love to own the Lamplighter version!
A classic novel.
January 7, 2025
The book you wish you could read for the first time over and over again. This one changed my life.
March 26, 2024
At the risk of repeating myself to a point that seems to lack self-awareness 😅....
Books change your life!
I know I say this so much, but it is just the plumb truth! I'm so excited to share about this one today, because this is one of the most (is is THE most?!) edifying fictional stories I've ever read.
This is a coming-of-age story. But not like that! I hate coming-of-age stories most times tbh. They seem silly and oftentimes excuse a lot of bad behavior. This is more akin to A Lantern in Her Hand, or Jane Eyre. It's a saga - a true journey through a woman's life that is touched by deep sadness, immense joys, and incredible learning along the way. The spiritual truths in this book are PROFOUND and stated in poignant yet lovely ways. I cannot recommend this one highly enough. I feel as though I'm constantly re-sorting what books are in my top three, five, ten...and I think that's totally normal...and this book is somewhere in there near the top. It's one I will read again and again. A story of true, Biblical womanhood.
Books can change your life - especially ones such as this. Read it and allow it to grow in your heart. Only good can come from these pages 😍
Books change your life!
I know I say this so much, but it is just the plumb truth! I'm so excited to share about this one today, because this is one of the most (is is THE most?!) edifying fictional stories I've ever read.
This is a coming-of-age story. But not like that! I hate coming-of-age stories most times tbh. They seem silly and oftentimes excuse a lot of bad behavior. This is more akin to A Lantern in Her Hand, or Jane Eyre. It's a saga - a true journey through a woman's life that is touched by deep sadness, immense joys, and incredible learning along the way. The spiritual truths in this book are PROFOUND and stated in poignant yet lovely ways. I cannot recommend this one highly enough. I feel as though I'm constantly re-sorting what books are in my top three, five, ten...and I think that's totally normal...and this book is somewhere in there near the top. It's one I will read again and again. A story of true, Biblical womanhood.
Books can change your life - especially ones such as this. Read it and allow it to grow in your heart. Only good can come from these pages 😍
November 16, 2015
I knew that it was a mistake to read this book. This was one of my absolute favorite books when I was an extremely conservative Christian.
What I thought I remembered: A little more religious Little Women (Or basically, Little Women meets Elsie Dinsmore)
What it was in actuality: Multiple sermons and preachy excerpts manipulated into "diary" entries, all with the express purpose of showing that EVERYTHING happens for a reason ('cause it's all God's plan), and life is so great if you just accept that God wants the horrible stuff to happen to make you a better person.
I guess this book just really highlights how much I have changed since my faith changed course and I've become a a much more progressive, liberal, postmodern, philosophical Christian; and how different the two different branches see the world.
The first says "My child dying was part of God's Plan to teach me dependence on Him"
The second says "My Child dying was not part of God's Plan; but He used the grief and despair to bring me closer to Him"
Reread: 11/13/2015
Originally Read Several times: 2000-2003
What I thought I remembered: A little more religious Little Women (Or basically, Little Women meets Elsie Dinsmore)
What it was in actuality: Multiple sermons and preachy excerpts manipulated into "diary" entries, all with the express purpose of showing that EVERYTHING happens for a reason ('cause it's all God's plan), and life is so great if you just accept that God wants the horrible stuff to happen to make you a better person.
I guess this book just really highlights how much I have changed since my faith changed course and I've become a a much more progressive, liberal, postmodern, philosophical Christian; and how different the two different branches see the world.
The first says "My child dying was part of God's Plan to teach me dependence on Him"
The second says "My Child dying was not part of God's Plan; but He used the grief and despair to bring me closer to Him"
Reread: 11/13/2015
Originally Read Several times: 2000-2003
February 3, 2025
2025: Hard to believe it had been 7 years since I read this - at that time just beginning my motherhood journey. Still my favorite book, and many of the quotes below are still my favorites - just more poignant now!
2018: Favorite Quotes (There were too many, so I only picked the short ones!)
The truth is, the journey heavenward is all uphill. I have to force myself to keep on.
You may not understand why He leads you now in this way and now in that, but you may, nay, you must believe that perfection is stamped on His every act.
Speaking beautifully is little to the purpose unless one lives beautifully.
We are at peace with each other and at peace with God; His dealings with us do not perplex or puzzle us, though we do not pretend to understand them.
How can I fret at anything which is the will of God?
Let me give to Him not what I value least, but what I prize and delight in most.
2018: Favorite Quotes (There were too many, so I only picked the short ones!)
The truth is, the journey heavenward is all uphill. I have to force myself to keep on.
You may not understand why He leads you now in this way and now in that, but you may, nay, you must believe that perfection is stamped on His every act.
Speaking beautifully is little to the purpose unless one lives beautifully.
We are at peace with each other and at peace with God; His dealings with us do not perplex or puzzle us, though we do not pretend to understand them.
How can I fret at anything which is the will of God?
Let me give to Him not what I value least, but what I prize and delight in most.
February 11, 2017
Written in 1869, this is a fictional journal of a young woman--her beginning, doubts, disobedience, growth, marriage, difficult in-laws, children, and her older days--and is still pertinent to women today.
It's good to read a book (the second time) in which the main character, at least in the main, listens to and learns from her mother and other older and wiser people. The main character has a lot of flaws, yet she wants to please God, and slowly grows. I can relate to many of her struggles, so I find it interesting and helpful. No perfect books can be found, except the Bible in its original language, but I still think this is a book worthy of five stars, or maybe four and a half.
The author, Elizabeth Prentiss, also penned the famous hymn, "More Love to Thee, O Christ."
It's good to read a book (the second time) in which the main character, at least in the main, listens to and learns from her mother and other older and wiser people. The main character has a lot of flaws, yet she wants to please God, and slowly grows. I can relate to many of her struggles, so I find it interesting and helpful. No perfect books can be found, except the Bible in its original language, but I still think this is a book worthy of five stars, or maybe four and a half.
The author, Elizabeth Prentiss, also penned the famous hymn, "More Love to Thee, O Christ."
October 13, 2023
Loved it! I have a big soft spot for books spanning many years, and this story was so beautiful and edifying.
I rarely cry while reading books yet shed tears at several points this week reading Stepping Heavenward. Being very pregnant probably contributed to some of those tears…
I rarely cry while reading books yet shed tears at several points this week reading Stepping Heavenward. Being very pregnant probably contributed to some of those tears…
April 5, 2016
I very much enjoyed this book. It was written in a very interesting way through journal entries and I rather liked it.
What I Liked: This was a very real look into the main character, Katherine, known fondly as Kate to those closest to her. I appreciated the 'realness' of it. As Katherine lived to the glory of her Creator, she had ups and downs, victories and losses, strengths and struggles. This book began at her sixteenth birthday, and followed through her late teenage years, and throughout her adult years as a young woman who eventually marries and has children of her own.
I really liked how Katherine always strove to be a better young woman who followed Jesus. She DESIRED to handle all situations and seasons of life as Jesus would, but quickly discovered that saying and doing are two completely different things. But when she made mistakes, she confessed, and did her best to do better.
What I Didn't Like: Thinking back, I don't think there was anything that I really didn't like.
I give this book 4 stars for the 'realness' of it. I very much enjoyed it!
What I Liked: This was a very real look into the main character, Katherine, known fondly as Kate to those closest to her. I appreciated the 'realness' of it. As Katherine lived to the glory of her Creator, she had ups and downs, victories and losses, strengths and struggles. This book began at her sixteenth birthday, and followed through her late teenage years, and throughout her adult years as a young woman who eventually marries and has children of her own.
I really liked how Katherine always strove to be a better young woman who followed Jesus. She DESIRED to handle all situations and seasons of life as Jesus would, but quickly discovered that saying and doing are two completely different things. But when she made mistakes, she confessed, and did her best to do better.
What I Didn't Like: Thinking back, I don't think there was anything that I really didn't like.
I give this book 4 stars for the 'realness' of it. I very much enjoyed it!
December 17, 2008
I didn't feel like I had anything in common with the main character, Katherine. The book begins on her sixteenth birthday and she has a little tiff with her mother on whether or not she should wear her boots out in the snow! I have never seen anyone do that over the age of six.
None of the temptations I face were present in her life, and none of the temptations she faced are present in my life.
I know a lot of people really like this book, and I'm sure they have good reasons. It's just not for me.
None of the temptations I face were present in her life, and none of the temptations she faced are present in my life.
I know a lot of people really like this book, and I'm sure they have good reasons. It's just not for me.
September 26, 2021
Although it doesn't get that elusive five stars from me, Stepping Heavenward impacted me spiritually--and in such a good way. It's rare that a work of fiction does that to me. (Rare for nonfiction as well.) I had it sitting on my shelf for months, a loan from a friend at church, and randomly decided to start reading it the other day...or maybe not so random. I think I read it at just about the perfect time for it to help me grow in Christ. <3
January 7, 2024
This is utterly ridiculous. This is probably the most didactic and clunky writing I’ve ever read, and the relationships within the novel are beyond problematic and toxic. This is a perfect example of why true art and beauty will always be more impactful than “Christian” brow beating that is anything but artistic.
June 2, 2022
This was such a delightful book to read. It was so beautiful to watch the main character, Katy, go from where I feel like I am now, to the godly woman I want to be some day. I highly recommend this!
February 24, 2025
Couldn’t put this down! Loving the coming of age story lately. So endearing and real!
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