11 - The Da Vinci Code, Dan Brown

I LOVED THIS BOOK! It was definitely the best I've read so far this year. Perhaps even the best I've read in quite a while. I really enjoyed the layers upon layers of information and meaning. I love codes and puzzles, so it was fascinating to read as the characters solved all of the devious riddles laid before them.

There was a great deal of controversy surrounding this book and movie. I don't know exactly how I feel about the claims of the Priory de Sion. I don't think they are as earth-shattering or faith-altering as many would have me believer they are. That said, I prefer to read this as a NOVEL. You know, FICTION? Make-believe grounded in amazingly detailed reality. Because obviously it is just that.

I think my favorite layers are those that connect Christianity to earlier pagan rites of worship. It is a source of boundless interest to me that various rulers, both secular and religious, both Christian and pagan, have endeavored to blend the holy ceremonies and celebrations of Christ with the more ancient rituals of pagan worship. The level of success is mind-boggling and accounts convincingly for the rise of Christianity in the British Isles and Western Europe. By overlaying the pagan rites with Christian significance, the Church (with a little help from a few Roman Emperors) effectively converted the masses without them even realizing it. It's sort of a sneaky way to secure a person's immortal soul, but undeniably effective. :)

I want desperately to visit these places. What an amazing vacation it would be simply to trace Robert and Princess Sophie's path across France and Great Britain. I love to imagine the sights I would see. I am particularly intrigued by Rosslyn Chapel, which I have not encountered in other things I've read. I'll have to do some more investigation.

Speaking of making connections: Nicholas Flamel was listed as one of the Grand Masters of the Priory de Sion. Yes, Nicholas Flamel of the Sorcerer's Stone. Yes, Nicholas Flamel, Albus Dumbledore's dear friend from Harry Potter. Too cool! :)

I think I might have to add Angels and Demons to my list now. And maybe anything else Dan Brown has written. I might have a new author to add to my list. :)