The author of countless techno-thrillers, from The Andromeda Strain to Jurassic Park, Michael Crichton left an indelible mark on the world of literature before he sadly passed away.
Much of his catalogue remains unadapted for the screen. While there isn’t likely to be any appetite among executives for an adaption of State Of Fear these days, one more Crichton project is starting to move.
According to Deadline, Crichton left an unfinished manuscript and his widow has given permission for it to be used.
Crichton and Patterson
Author James Patterson took Crichton’s unfinished work and crafted it into a book – Eruption.
Releasing on June 3rd 2024, the book is about to become the subject of a Hollywood bidding war.
In the book, a once-in-a-century volcanic eruption of Hawaii’s Mauna Loa threatens a secret cache of chemical weapons that can destroy not only the island but the world. “It was intended to be part of a series by Crichton, and Patterson may now carry out his wishes.
Sherri Crichton said her late husband had been working on the book for years and, as is his style, he had volumes of scientific research, comprehensive notes, and detailed outlines.
These ranged from interviews with volcanologists to conversations with chemical weapons specialists.
Crichton’s estate has a deal with Shane Salerno’s The Story Factory to adaptations his works into films and TV. They will then broker the rights to interested parties.
