Jurassic Park author and ER drama creator dies

THE family of Michael Crichton, the best-selling author of such historic and prehistoric science fantasies as Jurassic Park, Timeline and The Andromeda Strain, says the author has died in Los Angeles.

Crichton died yesterday aged 66 after a “courageous and private battle against cancer”, his family has said.

“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.