’’Jurassic Park.’’ ’’Congo.’’ ’’Disclosure.’’
You may hear these novels mentioned as among Crichton’s finest works. & not without reason, either. However, ’’The Andromeda Strain’’ pales all later accomplishments.
This novel is Crichton’s definitive work. Everything within this story is master class. Character development rivals that of Jurassic Park. Pacing is without peer. Drama is unbeatable.
With, The Andromeda Strain, Crichton has created a novel destined for the annals of literature history. The concept of an extra-terrestrial virus contaminating the Earth is in itself a promising premise, but it seems fair to say that only a genius on the order of Crichton could have woven it together in such inexorable fashion.
The tension in this thriller is inescapable. The human drama is forever increasing. The very style in which it is written --- retrospect --- is completely engaging. Crichton has truly secured his place in literature. A novel that is stupendously achieved, & truly compelling.