Gripping

I have read this book twice [ once before and once after the movie ], however, it has been about ten years since the last time, so forgive me if I get some details wrong. As with other reviewers, I found the characters a bit poorly constucted [ except for Malcolm, the scientist, who Crichton obviously intended to be the " savvy, eccentric, not to say I told you so, but...know it all, that he weaves his story and message around ]. But if I was in need of great character development, then I would read 'Pride and Prejudice' [ that darn Mr. Darby! ], when it comes to Michael Crichton, it's all about the science.

In much the same tradition as Upton Sinclair's ' The Jungle ', Crichton uses the novel medium to enlighten people to the dangers [ and benefits, if used properly ] of the biotechnology industry. An industry that could easily eradicate world hunger, but could, just as easily, be used to kill all human life.

Despite the fantastic nature [ dinosaurs and such ] of the book, there can be little doubt that the biotech industry is a double-edged sword. Biotechnology, as is widely known, was borne out of the need to compete with the Soviet Union in the development of biological weapons. And indeed, one of the core reasons for the mapping of the human gene code was the development of such weapons. However, in the years since the gene code breakthrough, scientists have used biotechnology for many purposes other than weapons, including: the genetic manufacturing of precious gems, the development of genetically manufactured food such as corn and soy beans, and even the cloning of small animals, which is an all together different moral dilemma.

In this brilliant text that is a true "page turner," Crichton substitutes the entertaining and fantastic story of genetically produced dinosaurs, for the all too real story of biological terror or, perhaps, genetically "weaponized" food entering the food chain. Further, Crichton, through the character of Malcolm, expounds on the arrogance of the human race. The idea that Mother Nature no longer has dominion over us. In Malcolm's eyes, this is hubris, and I agree. But, perhaps most disturbing, is the suggestion put forth in this book that the one thing that sets us [ human beings ] apart, the search for knowledge, may be the cause of our ultimate demise. Terrific read!!

One last thing, the death of Hammond [ in the book ]is still a greedy pleasure. 4 stars

I loved this book when I was younger.

I grew up LOVING dinosours. And this book delivered. This is probably the first real book i ever read. I had just seen The movie, and I was so hyped up I bought this. and I read the pooh out of it. Like 3 or 4 times. It was great. Is alot more action oriengted than the movie... maybe written for a slightly older audience, but it was great.
I just ordered the sequel... I hope it is as good...

A page turner

This is a great book. It is far better than the movie. The sequels are okay, but the first one is still the best. Anyone would like this book no matter their age.