Dan Brown, the renowned author known for his bestselling thrillers, particularly “The Da Vinci Code,” is celebrated for his ability to weave complex historical and religious themes into modern-day thrillers, creating gripping narratives that have captivated a global audience.
Born on June 22, 1964, in Exeter, New Hampshire, Dan Brown’s early life in an academic family laid the groundwork for his interest in the interplay between religion, history, and art, themes that he would later explore in his writing. Before becoming a full-time author, Brown dabbled in music and teaching, experiences that contributed to his storytelling skills and thematic interests.
Brown’s breakthrough came with “Angels & Demons” (2000), introducing the character Robert Langdon, a Harvard University professor of religious iconology and symbology. However, it was “The Da Vinci Code” (2003), Brown’s second novel featuring Langdon, that brought him international acclaim. The novel, which delves into themes of cryptography, art history, and religious conspiracies, was a phenomenal success, stirring widespread interest as well as controversy, particularly among religious groups.
Brown’s writing style is characterized by fast-paced plots, accessible prose, and cliffhanger chapters that keep readers engaged. His novels often involve a blend of well-researched historical and scientific details, puzzles, and codes, set against the backdrop of real historical locations and artworks.
Following “The Da Vinci Code,” Brown continued to write successful novels featuring Robert Langdon, including “The Lost Symbol,” “Inferno,” and “Origin,” each delving into different historical and scientific themes. His ability to blend fact with fiction in a compelling narrative format has made his books a staple of the thriller genre.
In addition to his literary success, Brown’s novels have been adapted into major motion pictures, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in contemporary fiction. His contribution to the thriller genre is marked not only by his bestselling novels but also by the broader conversations they have sparked about religion, science, and history in the public sphere.
Publication Order of Robert Langdon Books
| Angels & Demons | (2000) |
| The Da Vinci Code | (2003) |
| The Lost Symbol | (2009) |
| Inferno | (2013) |
| Origin | (2017) |
Publication Order of Standalone Novels
| Digital Fortress | (1998) |
| Deception Point | (2001) |
Publication Order of Picture Books
| Wild Symphony | (2020) |
Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books
| 187 Men to Avoid | (1995) |