Octoworm @ 2006-01-05

Truth and Fiction in The Da Vinci Code: A Historian Reveals What We Really Know about Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and Constantine

$21.00

Like most everyone who will read this book, I came to it because I enjoyed The Da Vinci Code and was intrigued by many of the theories it proffered. I found this book to be an excellent addition to the novel, as it doesn't detract from Dan Brown's creation, but simply clarifies where Brown stuck to the facts and where he embellished.

One of the great strengths of Ehrman's book is its accessibility. The author presents his points and historical accounts in a straightforward, concise manner. In fact, it's amazing how much information he's packed into such a short book. Another factor in Ehrman's favor is that he strives for complete objectivity. He is interested neither in debunking nor promoting Christianity, but in simply offering up what historians know (or guess at) from documented evidence.

I recommend this book for anyone, whether you've read The Da Vinci Code or not. It is a thought provoking work that may well lead you to further investigations.