Stack of Spines

I’ve read all of Dan Brown’s books, and I have to say, The Lost Symbol was one of my favorites for a few reasons and one of my least favorites for a few more.  Maybe it’s because I knew what to expect, maybe it’s because it took place in America’s backyard — I’m not sure.

The Lost Symbol was one of the most plot driven of Brown’s books, and for that, I love it.  Rather than a series of seemingly random and unpredictable twists and turns, this book had a story behind it that intertwined with the ultimate quest for information.  I loved the familial aspects, the tie-in with Langdon’s past, and the emotion it all brought to the surface.  Some of Brown’s other books I’ve read and thought to myself “Where did THAT come from?”  I relish the possibility of figuring something out (even if I’m terrible at it most of the time), and Brown often does not afford me that luxury.  The Lost Symbol did, which I thought was awesome.  I’ll probably be accused for talking out of both sides of my mouth here, BUT – some elements were a tad predictable and took away from my ultimate enjoyment.

I hate reading (and writing) book reviews with too many spoilers, so I don’t want to give away too much.  It’s been a while, but I don’t recall the degree of violence and homicidal tendencies in Brown’s other works.  Some of the ending elements were a bit far-fetched, but hey, that comes with the territory.  I love all the newfangled terms and possibilities.

If you’re one for social commentary, I believe Brown added a pro-Christian message to The Lost Symbol to counter his DaVinci Code and Angels and Demons foes and I found his response worth mentioning.  I can’t fault him for encouraging others to ask questions and explore their world beyond the status quo.