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Post by Old Dragon (Al) on Nov 2, 2005 17:12:43 GMT 1
The first book up for discussion - as nominated by Jo - is:
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown.
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Post by mugsy on Nov 2, 2005 18:33:54 GMT 1
I have read that book, what happens now?
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Post by Old Dragon (Al) on Nov 2, 2005 19:23:38 GMT 1
That is up to you all, Margaret, perhaps say what you like/dislike about it, the plot, and the writer's style/voice? Perhaps, discuss what makes it so popular and so attractive a story to the publisher as well as the readers. Perhaps you'd simply like to do a review for other members who may wish to consider reading it or buying a copy as a gift for someone?
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PsychoJo
Wolf Team Member
Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once!
Posts: 1,403
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Post by PsychoJo on Nov 2, 2005 20:05:49 GMT 1
Still trying to borrow back my copy! Hopefully be able to pick it up at the weekend!
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Post by Jack D - AKA Mr Meldrew on Nov 3, 2005 21:16:18 GMT 1
How about starting off by telling us what attracted you to the book in the first place, Jo?
What kept you turning the pages once you started to read it?
Having now read it, I could say a lot, but feel my thoughts best reserved for later in the discussion.
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PsychoJo
Wolf Team Member
Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once!
Posts: 1,403
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Post by PsychoJo on Nov 4, 2005 22:44:30 GMT 1
I was initially drawn to the book by recommendation, but after the first page I was hooked! It struck me that he showed the "puzzle" to start with then having whet my appetite he started to introduce the other elements. By which time I needed to know all the potentially "boring bit" - the background of the characters, plot etc. In each chapter he gives just enough to get me - and keep me engrossed - then leaves a cliff hanger, while he continues another part of the plot in the next chapter. I felt this was particularly effective and really did keep the pages turning! I felt that he used simple and easy to understand language so the fact I am not a scholar of art and it's history didn't detract from the plot and my enjoyment of the book. Don't get me wrong, I don't for a moment think he "dumbed anything down" but he did appear to make it more accessible to anyone! For example, I have long been fascinated by the "alternative" organisations he chose to include and had previously read up about them but again his use of simple terminology didn't detract. I found I could easily and consistently picture the scenes, the action and the people involved each time. I have since read two more of his books and he employs these same techniques to each of those. Whilst being on totally different subjects, one in the world of computer technology and the other a NASA discovery in the arctic, I don't need to have a knowledge of the fields of the plot to enjoy the excitement and thrill of the chase! I haven't got my copy back yet, so I hope the above is enough to begin the discussion! ;D
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Post by Jack D - AKA Mr Meldrew on Nov 6, 2005 22:42:38 GMT 1
Interesting to note the authority with which the writer 'speaks' throughout the novel. This indicates considerable research into the settings described, the history and the religious variations. At times a thin divide between fact and fiction, but convincing. All in all a very good read. I will be interested to see the film, if opportunity presents itself, and I understand there is also to be a PC Game created as a result, too. The latter I think I'll pass on.
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PsychoJo
Wolf Team Member
Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once!
Posts: 1,403
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Post by PsychoJo on Nov 6, 2005 23:39:47 GMT 1
All in all a very good read. I will be interested to see the film, if opportunity presents itself, and I understand there is also to be a PC Game created as a result, too. The latter I think I'll pass on. Could Meirion perhaps make use of the new games console and give us a review of the game, Jack? I understand from my limited reading before reading this book and subsequent internet searches afterwards that many, if not all, of the details regarding artworks, organisations and most architecture is supposed to be factual! Although, I think perhaps, a recent programme showed up a few discrepancies!
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Post by AliBullie on Nov 16, 2005 17:16:46 GMT 1
I bought this book yesterday, and so far its quite good, as Jo has said, its written in a way I understand having no knowledge of art and not much knowledge about religion. The only bit I have a problem with, is the French cus I don't understand it, but theres only been a little bit so I have managed to work it out. I found the 1.618 number thing fascinating and will defiantly be looking up a bit more about that. Are you saying Jo that the Opus Dei in the book is a real religion (something else to look up ) Early night tonight got to get a few more chapters in.
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PsychoJo
Wolf Team Member
Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once!
Posts: 1,403
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Post by PsychoJo on Nov 16, 2005 17:47:39 GMT 1
Yes, Ali, although the description of the "rituals" is *ahem* beefed up a little according to the "approved" sources I read-up about Opus Dei. But I guess that is some of the art of good writing? Being able to use artistic licence in such a way that it isn't libelous!!!!!? Edited to add: I have finally got my own capy back home here!
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