Wednesday, November 05, 2008

A Real Loss

I've just learned that Michael Crichton has passed away. He has been battling cancer.

Popular sci-fi author Michael Crichton died Tuesday of cancer. He was 66 and was battling the illness privately, according to his family.

Crichton was author of several blockbuster novels, including The Andromeda Strain and Jurassic Park, and also created the hit TV series ER.

"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," his family said in a statement, according to the Associated Press.

In addition to his prolific and successful career as a writer, his works were translated into a number of wildly popular movies including The 13th Warrior, Westworld and, of course, Jurassic Park. The breadth of his work is an indication of the incredible talent he possessed. He also deserves credit for his well reasoned attack on global warming. More important than any of that though, is this-

"While the world knew him as a great story teller 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."

A man couldn't ask for finer words than those. May he rest in peace.

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