Origin by Dan Brown

Why read the book?

Dan Brown’s Origin follows Harvard symbolist Robert Langdon as he investigates the murder of a tech billionaire in Bilbao, Spain, who claims to have solved humanity’s biggest questions: Where do we come from? Where are we going? With the billionaire’s AI assistant and a museum director, Langdon races across Spain, decoding clues in art, science, and religion to reveal the discovery before it’s silenced. The novel tackles artificial intelligence, faith, and human evolution, making it a thrilling read for those who love intellectual mysteries and high-stakes chases.

Favourite quote

We must be willing to abandon the life we planned in order to have the life that is waiting for us.

What I Loved

Origin grips with its fast-paced blend of cutting-edge technology and historical art, set in stunning Spanish locales like the Guggenheim Museum and Sagrada Familia. Langdon’s decoding of symbols, from Blake’s poetry to Gaudí’s architecture, keeps the mind engaged, while the AI-driven plot feels timely and provocative. Brown’s exploration of science versus religion sparks deep reflection, though some twists lean on convenience. The vivid settings and ethical questions about humanity’s future make this a compelling addition to the Robert Langdon series.

Key Takeaway

Embracing knowledge and courage can reshape our understanding of humanity’s past and future.