The Medici Dagger Author:Cameron West From School Library Journal — Adult/High School — Suppose da Vinci, when commissioned to produce a dagger, invented a superior metal alloy -- lighter, stronger, and more durable than anything known to man. Suppose further that he determined that his society would probably use it for evil purposes. His decision made, he hid the dagger and left clue... more »s for some future society as to its composition. Fast-forward 500 years. A plane carrying da Vinci's priceless "Circle of Truth" notes, purportedly the clues to the dagger's whereabouts, crashes and burns. Shortly afterward, museum curator Rollo Burns's Georgetown home burns to the ground, leaving his young son as the only survivor and witness to the tragedy. Move forward again 20 years. Rollo Burns Jr. (Reb), Hollywood daredevil and stuntman, finds himself immersed in the mystery of the Medici dagger and the notes. The story has the fast-paced appeal of a Clive Cussler novel, complete with lots of action and reality-suspending stunts pulled off by the hero. The historical lessons about Leonardo and his times and the steps necessary to puzzle out his clues are entertaining and informative. Reb's need to unravel the mystery of his parents' deaths and his own lack of connection to others grabs readers' attention.
--Carol DeAngelo, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA
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