Freemasonry has long been one of the most mysterious societies within the whole of Western civilization with its long and secrecy shrouded history. The target of speculation, romanticism, fear mongering, and awe alike, it is little wonder that many individuals are curious about this ancient and storied brotherhood. One of many books written on the subject, The Secrets of the Freemasons, pulled together by one Pat Morgan, is an interesting and informative guide to the basics of Freemasonry. It is, in large part, a good choice for beginners who have little to no knowledge about what freemasonry is. The title of the book lures in readers with promises of mysterious secrets, and leaves the same persistent reader with a better understanding of an old, fascinating, and often misunderstood organization. The back cover promises its audience intimate knowledge of “secret handshakes – what they are, why the exist, and their meanings,” in addition to the secrecy shrouded initiation rituals, some choice trivia on celebrity Freemasons, and a guide to various rituals and ceremonies that are generally closed to the public. For the most part, the book delivers on its promise, and in addition, does a fair job of debunking various myths, conspiracy theories, and rumors surrounding the organization.

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If there ever was an eye-catching title for a book The Brotherhood: The Explosive Expose of the Secret World of the Freemasons. Yes, author Stephen Knight has come up with a truly tremendous title. The one problem here is that it is unnecessarily salacious. It is somewhat odd to write an “explosive expose” about an organization that really doesn’t bother anyone. Well, if you prescribe to Illuminati roleplaying fantasies about secret organizations, you might really be interested in a hard hitting expose. The reality here is that most people do not see anything untoward about freemasons. But, the public does have a strong sense of curiosity regarding what might occur behind the closed doors of a freemasonic lodge. As such, books such as The Brotherhood provide a glimpse into a realm few have been able to see.

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“The Lost Keys of Freemasonry” was written in 1923 by Manly P. Hall. Subtitled “The Secret of Hiram Abiff”, the prologue introduces the reader to the mythological Master Builder in a tale of mystery, philosophy and religious passion. Establishing the story of the three under-builders who murder their master, it serves to remind all readers to build first individual character and edifices will follow.

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In recent years, interest in Freemasonry, a secret society in which many of America’s most prominent figure have had some involvement, has increased significantly, thanks in part to the publication of “The Lost Symbol.” In this cryptic book by Dan Brown, author of “The Da Vinci Code,” Masons play an integral part in the mystery. Those who read that book and came away intrigued about the real society referenced within the pages of that thriller should have a look at “Freemasons for Dummies,” written by Christopher Hodapp.

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Is it True What They Say About Freemasonry? by Art de Hoyos and S. Brent Morris is a scholarly rebuttal of John Ankerberg, Ron Carlson, Reverend Jess Jackson, Leo Taxil, James Dayton Shaw and other vocal detractors of Freemasonry.

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