Offering a diverse range of essays by various authors, Secrets of The Lost Symbol by Dan Burstein and Arne de Keijzer is the most comprehensive of the several unauthorized companion books that followed the release of Dan Brown's bestseller The Lost Symbol. The book is formatted in a similar manner to Burstein's other Secrets books in that essays and interviews with deemed experts flesh out the majority of the pages. With the underlying focus of Freemasonry and it's role in Washington, D.C., I find that the most compelling and successful pieces were written by the real Masonic authors who know the subject from the inside. The three best short works in the book, in my opinion, are Dan Brown's Freemasonry by Arturo de Hoyos, A Mason Reveals His "Journey to Light" by Mark Koltko-Rivera, and Defining Masonry by Mark A. Tabbert.
While reading Dan Brown's novel, many questions are raised and not all are answered. This companion book both extends some help in understanding the more complex scientific topics and offers insights into the more esoteric elements of the storyline. Well worth the cover price, the book also serves to provoke thought for the curious traveler looking for mystery in our nation's capitol.
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: George Washington Freemason
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: Washington Monument
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: The Apotheosis of Washington
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: The Apotheosis of Washington
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: Capitol Rotunda
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: Hand of the Mysteries
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: House of the Temple. Washington, D.C.
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: 33rd Degree
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: Arturo de Hoyos
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: Mark Koltko-Rivera
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: George Washington Masonic Memorial
Secrets of The Lost Symbol. by Dan Burstein: The Lost Symbol. by Dan Brown
Mark Koltko-Rivera. Masonic Newsletter. Markings. 1st Issue. Portrait by Travis Simpkins
My good friend, Mark Koltko-Rivera, PhD (The History Channel, Discovering the Lost Symbol, America's Book of Secrets, Ancient Aliens) has launched an intriguing new Masonic Newsletter called "Markings." In the debut issue, February 2016, he included the portrait sketch I made of him in 2015. Always on the side of enlightenment and truth, Mark will be sure to offer insightful writings in every issue. Please check out Mark Koltko-Rivera's website and consider subscribing to the newsletter.
Without question, Freemasonry: An Introduction by Dr. Mark Koltko-Rivera is amongst the best preliminary texts for those seeking general information about the Craft. The book also provides helpful tips, and illustrates the necessary steps to become a member of a Masonic lodge. Well-versed insights are put forth by Dr. Koltko-Rivera, a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Freemason and a Masonic Knight Templar, offering an insider's view of the many things Freemasonry has to offer men in the 21st Century. He explains what the Craft is, but perhaps just as importantly, he discusses what it isn't and addresses the numerous misconceptions as well. Many topics are given pause for thought, including history, symbolism, controversies, anti-masonry accusations, terminology as well as the commonly asked what, why and how queries. A chapter is devoted to pop-culture and fictional portrayals of Freemasons as well, like select Dan Brown novels and the National Treasure film franchise. Acknowledging the book as a starting point, Dr. Koltko-Rivera offers suggestions on future reading… furthering the concept that the most veritable books about Freemasonry are written by Freemasons. At 164 pages, Freemasonry: An Introduction provides an invitation to self-discovery, while offering a brief and illuminating look at this mysterious and fascinating "Secret Society."
Mark Koltko-Rivera, Ph.D.: Freemasonry: An Introduction. Mark Koltko-Rivera
Constitutions of Freemasonry: Freemasonry: An Introduction. Mark Koltko-Rivera
Symbols of Freemasonry: Freemasonry: An Introduction. Mark Koltko-Rivera
Albert Pike (1809-1891): Freemasonry: An Introduction. Mark Koltko-Rivera
The Steps of Freemasonry: Freemasonry: An Introduction. Mark Koltko-Rivera
"The Lost Symbol" by Dan Brown: Freemasonry: An Introduction. Mark Koltko-Rivera
National Treasure: Freemasonry: An Introduction. Mark Koltko-Rivera
"Esoteric Freemasonry" by Dr. Mark Koltko-Rivera
"Freemasonry: An Introduction" by Dr. Mark Koltko-Rivera
