Explores and explains the context of Dan Brown's thriller "The Da Vinci Code", from how the early Christian Church 'edited' "The Bible" to the true history of the holy grail, and to what art historians make of Leonardo Da Vinci's symbolism in the "Last Supper" and other works.

Get the lowdown on the best fiction ever written. Over 230 of the world’s greatest novels are covered, from Quixote (1614) to Orhan Pamuk’s Snow (2002), with fascinating information about their plots and their authors – and suggestions for what to read next. The guide comes complete with recommendations of the best editions and translations for every genre from the most enticing crime and punishment to love, sex, heroes and anti-heroes, not to mention all the classics of comedy and satire, horror and mystery and many other literary genres. With feature boxes on experimental novels, female novelists, short reviews of interesting film and TV adaptations, and information on how the novel began, this guide will point you to all the classic literature you’ll ever need.

The Rough Guide to Crime Fiction takes the reader on a guided tour of the mean streets and blind corners that make up the world’s most popular literary genre. The insider’s book recommends over 200 classic crime novels from masterminds Raymond Chandler and Patricia Highsmith to modern hotshots James Elroy and Patricia Cornwall. You’ll investigate gumshoes, spies, spooks, serial killers, forensic females, prying priests and patsies from the past, present, and future. Complete with extra information on what to read next, all movie adaptions, and illustrated throughout with photos and diagrams ...all the evidence that counts

Everything you think you know is a lie. Or is it? The Rough Guide to Conspiracy Theories is the definitive guide to the world's most controversial theories. With updated information on all the most infamous conspiracies, from phony crucifixions to who really did kill JFK, this fully up-dated guide also covers the murders of Alexander Litvinenko and Benasir Bhutto, the London bombings and the Iraq War, as well as the inquest into Princess Diana's death. The guide is a thoroughly researched exploration into this fascinating and, at times, amusing phenomenon, with fascinating discourse and a keen sense of the satirical. For both the believers and the cynics, The Rough Guide to Conspiracy Theories sorts the myths from the realities.

The Rough Guide to Unexplained Phenomena is an exploration of the zone that lies between the known and the unknown, a shadowy territory that's home to the lake monsters, combusting people, teleporting frogs and man-eating trees. Taking a Fortean path between dogmatic scientists and credulous believers, the authors trace tales of wonder back to their sources, drawing from a huge archive of observations, opinions and discussions. This updated second edition boasts new illustrations and plenty of intriguing new sections from near death experiences to ghosts, haunted houses and mysterious mass deaths. There are many things which are not yet known or understood about our world - as this guide shows there are many riddles to solve and wonders to experience. Decide for yourself with The Rough Guide to Unexplained Phenomona

The most readable introduction available to the sights and attractions of one of the greatest cities on earth. Everything you need to know about Rome's iconic landmarks, ancient buildings, and distinctive neighborhoods - as well as the inside track on the best of the city's restaurants, wine bars, shops, markets, and much more - is presented in a full-color, user-friendly format with dozens of beautiful photos and color-coded maps. Step foot inside the Colosseum, explore the Piazza Navona, visit the miraculous Sistine Chapel, and stroll through the streets with a gelato in hand. With expert history and background on the art and architecture, and features on the best places for Roman pizza, the city's best hotel bars, and cutting-edge cuisine, The Rough Guide to Rome has everything you need to make the most of your stay. There's no better single-volume guide to Rome. Make the most of your time with The Rough Guide to Rome. Series Overview: For more than thirty years, adventurous travelers have turned to Rough Guides for up-to-date and intuitive information from expert authors. With opinionated and lively writing, honest reviews, and a strong cultural background, Rough Guides travel books bring more than 200 destinations to life. Visit RoughGuides.com to learn more.

The Rough Guide to Videogames is the ultimate guide to the world’s most addictive pastime. Both a nostalgic look at the past and a celebration of the latest in joystick-wrecking wonders, this book covers the full story from the first arcade machines to the latest digital delights. Easy access to 75 of the greatest games of all time, from Civilization and Pro Evolution Soccer to We Love Katamari and World of Warcraft. The guide profiles the stories behind the software giants, famous creators and the world’s favourite characters, including Mario, Lara Croft and Sonic the Hedgehog. All the gadgets and devices for consoles, hand-helds, phones and PCs are explored as well as the wider world of gaming, from websites and movies to books.

The Rough Guide to Germany is the ultimate travel guide with clear maps and detailed coverage of all the best attractions Germany has to offer. Discover the dynamic regions of Germany from the lively nightlife in Berlin, magnificent Baroque gardens in Northern Germany, medieval castles and historical towns, to the flavours of German cuisine. Packed with detailed, practical advice on what to see and do in Germany this guide provides reliable, up-to-date descriptions of the best hotels in Germany, German bars, recommended restaurants in Germany, and tips on the best shopping and festivals in Germany for all budgets. Featuring detailed coverage on a full range of attractions; from the spas of Baden-Baden and the galleries of Dresden, to boat trips in Hamburg and the jazz clubs of Munich, you'll find expert tips on exploring Germany's amazing attractions with an authoritative background on Germany's rich culture and history. Explore all corners of Germany with the clearest maps of any guide and practical German language tips. Make the most of your holiday with The Rough Guide to Germany.

Discover Paris with the most incisive and in-the-know guidebook on the market. Whether you plan to stroll along the Seine, sip apéritifs at classy left-bank cafés or browse modern art at the Palais de Tokyo, The Rough Guide to Paris will show you ideal places to sleep, eat, drink and shop along the way. Inside The Rough Guide to Paris - Independent, trusted reviews written in Rough Guides' trademark blend of humour, honesty and insight, to help you get the most out of your visit, with options to suit every budget. - Full-colour maps throughout - navigate the medieval lanes of the Quartier Latin or the Marais's swanky shopping streets without needing to get online. - Stunning, inspirational images - Itineraries - carefully planned routes to help you organize your trip. - Detailed city coverage - whether in the city centre or out in the suburbs, this travel guide has in-depth practical advice for every step of the way. Areas covered: the islands; the Marais; the Quartier Latin; St-Germain; Montparnasse; Montmarte; Disneyland Paris. Attractions include: Eiffel Tower; Musée Rodin; Puces de St-Ouen; Pompidou Centre; Notre-Dame; Père-Lachaise; Musée Picasso; Musée d'Orsay; Fondation Louis Vuitton; Sainte-Chapelle; Berges de Seine; Place des Vosges. - Listings chapters - from accommodation to clubs and live music, plus festivals, events and Paris for children. - Basics - essential pre-departure practical information including getting there, local transport, the media, living in Paris, health, bike tours, boat trips, public holidays and more. - Background information - a Contexts chapter devoted to history and books, plus a handy language section and glossary. Make the Most of Your Time on Earth with the Rough Guide to Paris About Rough Guides: Escape the everyday with Rough Guides. We are a leading travel publisher known for our "tell it like it is" attitude, up-to-date content and great writing. Since 1982, we've published books covering more than 120 destinations around the globe, with an ever-growing series of ebooks, a range of beautiful, inspirational reference titles, and an award-winning website. We pride ourselves on our accurate, honest and informed travel guides.

The Rough Guide to Montréal is your definitive guide to this delightful city. From the churches and cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montréal to the parks and gardens sprinkled throughout the city, the full-colour introduction highlights all the ‘things-not-to-miss’. There are insider reviews of all the best places to stay, eat and drink, whatever your budget, with the new ‘Author’s Pick’ feature highlighting the very best options. There is extensive coverage of Québec City, as well as the Laurentian Mountains and Eastern Townships. The guide also takes and insightful look at Montréal’s history and background and comes complete with maps and plans for every neighbourhood. The Rough Guide to Montréal is like having a local friend plan your trip!