A book involving water and the ideas of baptism/rebirth?

Question

I need to find an example of a novel that has a character submerged, entering, or drowning in water, and how that symbolizes the character's rebirth or death, or baptism. For example, in Ordinary People 2 brothers set out on the sea, the old stronger brother dies while the younger "weaker" brother survives by holding onto the boat. After the storm he reaches shore and finds himself "reborn" and no longer the same person he was when he first left for sea.

I needed an example where water plays a significant role like this.. I thought of some novels (The Perfect Storm, Huck Finn), but I wasn't sure of the role of water. I know the Mississippi River symbolizes freedom in Huck Finn, but I couldn't recall a specific time where they entered the water and resurfaced to be baptized/reborn.

Any help?

Answer 1

A newer book that features water used as symbolism is The Coal Tattoo by Silas House--an actual baptism being used as a symbol of rebirth, among other things.