I have never been a fan of bestsellers or blockbusters. I did not bother to watch the movie Titanic or even listen enthusiastically to pop songs (which are usually just one hit wonders). I do not see anything special about the hit TV series, C.S.I. that my wife ardently looks forward to watch every week.

For me, they are mere formulaic entertainment pieces. But what is entertaining about something predictable or pretending to be intellectually stimulating? I’d rather be watching dumb-feel good-farce/bone ticklers, at least they do not give you false hopes or expectations. WYSIWYG.

I’m not an elitist or nicky picky guy. I’m just not the one that joins the bandwagon.

Last year, I borrowed from Jomai the #1 New York Times Bestseller of 2003, The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. It was already a tattered book when I got it so I guess it was well read by the owner. To my knowledge, the book had great reviews despite its being controversial. Being the hard to impress cynic that I am, I put off reading and instead passed it to Wendy, my wife.

“Enthralling and a page turner!” My enthused wife (who loves reading fiction) exclaimed as she kept prodding me (I am more of a non-fiction reader) to skim over the book. Which I did after several months- to put to rest what the fuss is about and before the movie version starring Tom Hanks comes out (for an in-depth comparison and analysis perhaps?).

My verdict? The novel is an erudite read. The twist and turns of the chase and unfolding of the clues is captivating. As the code is slowly, interestingly and brilliantly deciphered, the reader is left in awe. I now understand why the book is polemical. Its being controversial is part of its appeal. Besides, religion is always as a subject, touchy. The interplay of fact and fiction rivets the reader to ponder and be part of the fast paced novel.

Judge the book by its cover? Well, it is as enigmatic as the face that graces the book’s cover: La Gioconda (The Mona Lisa)

Be reminded though that it’s just a novel. Read it with an open mind.

A side note: I came across the website that lets you solve the original Da Vinci Code web quest and the Uncover the Code game. Try it! I tried and finished both (except for the part that you have to call a U.S. number- anggapoy load!). It’s very challenging and mind churning. The movie version will be released this May 2006.