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4.19 AVERAGE
4.19 AVERAGE
I've always been really intrigued about Leonardo da Vinci, but didn't know too much about the details of his life. This biography was brilliant, with amazing pictures of Leonardo's art pieces and notebooks to accompany the text which sought to describe the artistry, meaning and thoughts behind the images.
I loved the ending and conclusion of the book as well, and finished reading the book with a renewed sense of awe and inspiration.
I loved the ending and conclusion of the book as well, and finished reading the book with a renewed sense of awe and inspiration.
4 out of 5
People being into space, dinosaurs, Greek mythology, Ancient Egypt, etc. growing up and then there was me having a strong obsession with Leonardo da Vinci till I was about 12 years old. This book brought me back to that feeling and why I have always admired this man so much.
There were quite a few things I already knew of that the books goes over, but there were also other aspects I have never explored or simply have forgotten the details of over the years. It was so much fun. I found myself chuckling at the in which the author described Leonardo's character and mannerism. Feeling wonder at the level of skill and intellect he possessed through pure brilliance and consistent, detailed observation. It felt like I was visiting an old childhood friend, as weird as that may sound! I do wish the author could have touched so much more with regard to da Vinci's philosophy and thoughts based on his notes which we only see small snippets of throughout the book.
I appreciated it detailed his life from the moment he was born to his death. Of course, it went over major events, however, we still had more of those quiet moments that really grounded Leonardo as just another man, rather than the genius he's exalted. One chapter in particular I really loved was about his rivalry with Michelangelo. I could probably read a whole book about it! While there were so many things I loved, toward the middle of the book as well as when the author derailed the conversation of da Vinci's art too much to things outside the art pieces themselves, I found myself zoning out.
Also! This was my very first audiobook! Yay! I have always tried them but with fiction and I could just not get through them. Either I got too distracted or I could not take dialogue being read out loud seriously. Non-fiction works so much better for me since I almost trick myself into thinking I'm listening to a podcast. HA! But the best thing is that I have been able to digest the information so much better than if I had read it physically. The narrator was great and had a pleasant voice to listen to, so highly recommend the audiobook.
Anyone from hardcore da Vinci admirers to those looking to learn more about the man, the legend, will enjoy how thorough and accessible this biography is. The final chapters really touched me personally, making me reflect in my own pursuits and goals. One thing Leonardo da Vinci has taught me is to always remain curious and that there is wonder in every aspect of human life.
People being into space, dinosaurs, Greek mythology, Ancient Egypt, etc. growing up and then there was me having a strong obsession with Leonardo da Vinci till I was about 12 years old. This book brought me back to that feeling and why I have always admired this man so much.
There were quite a few things I already knew of that the books goes over, but there were also other aspects I have never explored or simply have forgotten the details of over the years. It was so much fun. I found myself chuckling at the in which the author described Leonardo's character and mannerism. Feeling wonder at the level of skill and intellect he possessed through pure brilliance and consistent, detailed observation. It felt like I was visiting an old childhood friend, as weird as that may sound! I do wish the author could have touched so much more with regard to da Vinci's philosophy and thoughts based on his notes which we only see small snippets of throughout the book.
I appreciated it detailed his life from the moment he was born to his death. Of course, it went over major events, however, we still had more of those quiet moments that really grounded Leonardo as just another man, rather than the genius he's exalted. One chapter in particular I really loved was about his rivalry with Michelangelo. I could probably read a whole book about it! While there were so many things I loved, toward the middle of the book as well as when the author derailed the conversation of da Vinci's art too much to things outside the art pieces themselves, I found myself zoning out.
Also! This was my very first audiobook! Yay! I have always tried them but with fiction and I could just not get through them. Either I got too distracted or I could not take dialogue being read out loud seriously. Non-fiction works so much better for me since I almost trick myself into thinking I'm listening to a podcast. HA! But the best thing is that I have been able to digest the information so much better than if I had read it physically. The narrator was great and had a pleasant voice to listen to, so highly recommend the audiobook.
Anyone from hardcore da Vinci admirers to those looking to learn more about the man, the legend, will enjoy how thorough and accessible this biography is. The final chapters really touched me personally, making me reflect in my own pursuits and goals. One thing Leonardo da Vinci has taught me is to always remain curious and that there is wonder in every aspect of human life.
informative
slow-paced
Decent biography. Informative and clear. Not the most gripping but not bad. Would recommend!
Walter Isaacson's book is a wonderful and personal look at one of history's most amazing figures. Everyone with an interest in art, science (especially anatomy), engineering or history should enjoy this book.
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
I wish the author hadn't given us his opinion on paintings as often as he did.
Long with historical context to Da Vinci’s insights - last chapter is a good summary of how to be more like Da Vinci
Well-written and so intriguing, Isaacson’s biography of one of the most important artists in history, that also dabbled in science and inventing, is deeply engaging and aweing like the Mona Lisa. A (100%/Outstanding)