logo
SuperSummary Logo
Plot Summary

Leonardo Da Vinci

Walter Isaacson
Guide cover placeholder
Plot Summary

Leonardo Da Vinci

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2017

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Leonardo Da Vinci by Walter Isaacson explores the life and works of the Renaissance polymath by examining thousands of pages from his notebooks and new discoveries about his art and science. The book presents a narrative that unites Da Vinci’s artistic and scientific endeavors, emphasizing his intense curiosity, observation, and imagination, which contributed to his creativity and genius.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Walter Isaacson's Leonardo Da Vinci is praised for its thorough research and engaging narrative, bringing the Renaissance master's life and works vividly to life. However, some readers find its length and detailed exposition occasionally overwhelming. Overall, Isaacson’s balanced portrayal combines artistic genius with human flaws, making it a compelling read for biography enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Leonardo Da Vinci?

Readers who enjoy Walter Isaacson’s Leonardo Da Vinci are typically fascinated by interdisciplinary genius, merging art, science, and innovation. They find pleasure in richly detailed biographies similar to Isaacson's Steve Jobs or David McCullough's John Adams, appreciating well-researched narratives and complex historical figures.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years
Plot Summary?
We’re just getting started.

Add this title to our requested Study Guides list!

Plot Summary?
We’re just getting started.

Add this title to our requested Study Guides list!


A SuperSummary Plot Summary provides a quick, full synopsis of a text.

A SuperSummary Study Guide — a modern alternative to Sparknotes & CliffsNotes — provides so much more, including chapter-by-chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and important quotes.

See the difference for yourself. Check out this sample Study Guide: