The Search for the Codex Cardona

This true story reads like the very best mystery fiction. Bauer is a stunning writer, with the subtlest characterizations of the people who show up in his quest and a sense of timing that is delicious. The book has an exquisite ending. It is an international romp, suspenseful and colorful, and in another sense, a travelogue through Mexico, its upper crust, its lower depths. A page turner. Priscilla High

Very enjoyable read. Do be careful of the "dream" scene in Chapter 17. Though the author and his friend have lapsed into fantasies about the outcome before, there was always a warning of sorts. Chapter 17 purports to have actually have found The Cordona. Only after reading what one thinks is fact does the author inform us -oops another fantasy! If you start skimming this book you will miss this. This is not a suitable device for non-fiction---perhaps just filler.

Professor Bauer's book is one of the most fascinating historical works I've read recently. When I first heard Dr. Bauer on NPR's THE STORY, I knew THE SEARCH FOR THE CODEX CARDONA would be a book I couldn't get my hands on fast enough. Finally published by Duke UP, I received my copy this week after having placed my order a couple months ago. Reading Bauer's account makes me feel like I'm back in Dr. Ott's Latin American History course at UNA. I recommend enthusiastically THE SEARCH FOR THE CODEX CARDONA. The book is a smart mixture of history, mystery, and the rare book trade. Additionally, it's the sole existing work on the Cardona -- a unique treatment of the subject!