The Da Vinci Code
Author: Dan Brown
Published: 2003
Publisher: Doubleday Group
ISBN: 0-385-50420-9
Series: N/A
Audience: Ages 14 and up
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
The Start of a Search for Truth
Almost immediately after the prominent symbologist, Professor Robert Langdon, finishes investigating a perplexing murder that takes place at Paris’ popular Louvre Museum, he is propelled into trying to solve a gripping mystery that may be a bit more than he bargained for. Calling upon the assistance of the lovely and local cryptographer, Sophie Neveu, Langdon must start the brain-taxing mission of finding the truth behind the cold-blooded murder and maybe even locating the sought-after site of the legendary Holy Grail.
Will the unlikely duo be successful in uncovering the shroud of mystery surrounding the killing and trail of signs, or will the evil mastermind – along with his dark secrets – escape into the unknown?
Can You Crack the Da Vinci Code?
All of these questions and more are breathtakingly examined in the vastly acclaimed crime novel authored by Dan Brown, The Da Vinci Code. Heralded by the previous Angels and Demons and then followed by the intriguing The Lost Symbol, this perennially popular novel has received both positive and negative reception. In addition to providing its readers with a bevy of (often slanted) information about pieces of history concerning religion and politics, the book also sweeps audiences away on a journey of action, suspense, and conspiracy.
Plot-wise, The Da Vinci Code explores a unique and rather startling perspective of religious record, primarily based on the notion that Jesus Christ might have had a more-than-platonic relationship with Mary Magdalene — a relationship that resulted in a long line of offspring that still exist this very day. Although the novel does contain veritable research found from such texts as The Templar Revelation by Clive Prince, much of what is presented is only speculation, assumption, and straining of the truth. It is largely up to the reader to decide for himself or herself what they choose (or want) to believe.
Along with all of its popularity and critical acclaim, The Da Vinci has received some harsher reviews as well. Numerous Christian groups have heatedly censured the novel as a roundabout strike on the Roman Catholic Church, while historians have publicly criticized its large lack of scientific and historical credibility. However, regardless of what others have said about this spellbinding book, there is nothing anyone can write or say that can take away from its fame. The Da Vinci Code has sold well over 80,000,000 copies worldwide, and is the most-sold English language novel of the 21st century. Its colossal recognition with readers was enough to even make it into a major motion picture that was released in 2006.
Why You Should Read the Da Vinci Code
For those who have read and enjoyed Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code, it is suggested they check out Angels and Demons and The Lost Symbol too, as both contain loosely interrelated plotlines and engaging “detective” writing styles. The novel is highly recommended for mature audiences because of its incredibly suspenseful and interesting plot, utilization (and bending) of historical information, and thought-provoking ideas. While it may be a bit far-fetched at times, the interesting way that author Dan Brown weaves the suspense and bits of truth behind the story keep the reader flipping page after page to keep up. Due to its widespread popularity, thought provoking writing style, well-researched information, and gripping plot, this novel deserves its five out of five rating, despite its faults. So dust off that magnifying glass and crack open your own copy of The Da Vinci Code to solve the mystery for yourself!
Ryan Arciero - Ryan Arciero, a student studying English and Education at Lewis University -- an honest, avid reader and writer with a passion for ...
Join the Conversation