RIP: Michael Crichton (1942-2008)
Posted on: November 5, 2008
I was stunned to learn today that the prolific and multi-talented author Michael Crichton has passed away from cancer. He was 66 years old.
Although he has made his name as a novelist, he is also an accomplished screen writer, director and producer and single-handedly elevated the “techno-thriller” genre. Crichton’s stories are immersive and believable because of the painstaking research he devoted to supporting them. He masterfully blended realism and fantasy so much so that sometimes it was hard to tell one from the other.
The release of a Crichton novel has become sort of an event for me. Something I truly looked forward to because his stories had such epic and cinematic qualities. Now it will be something that I will truly miss. The following are statements from Crichton’s family:
“Through his books, Michael Crichton served as an inspiration to students of all ages, challenged scientists in many fields, and illuminated the mysteries of the world in a way we could all understand….”
“….While the world knew him as a great storyteller that challenged our preconceived notions about the world around us — and entertained us all while doing so — his wife Sherri, daughter Taylor, family and friends knew Michael Crichton as a devoted husband, loving father and generous friend who inspired each of us to strive to see the wonders of our world through new eyes,”
He will truly be missed.