Born in Chicago in 1942, Michael Crichton first trained as a doctor before going on to become one of the most successful writers in the world. In 1994 he achieved a feat unmatched by any other writer: by having simultaneously a number one TV series, book and movie with, respectively, ER (which he created), Disclosure and Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park, on its release the highest-grossing film of all time. He also directed several movies, including The Great Railway Robbery with Sean Connery and Donald Sutherland. His high-concept thrillers were international bestsellers, and in total his books have sold more than 200 million copies worldwide. He died in 2008.

"Another monster hit by a giant of a writer" The Daily Express "Another monster hit by a giant of a writer" The Daily Express "The Lost World moves at a spanking pace ... recommended as first-rate entertainment" The Spectator "The Lost World moves at a spanking pace ... recommended as first-rate entertainment" The Spectator "Gripping" Sunday Express