I am so sad to find out that the Michael Crichton, author of such wonderful stories as Eaters of the Dead and Jurassic Park, is dead.

“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.

“While the world knew him as a great storyteller that challenged our preconceived notions about the world around us — and entertained us all while doing so — his wife Sherri, daughter Taylor, family and friends knew Michael Crichton as a devoted husband, loving father and generous friend who inspired each of us to strive to see the wonders of our world through new eyes.”

I’ve read and re-read many of his books, but the one I’ve managed to wear out several times has been Eaters of the Dead. This was a true story taken from the translation of a series of journals from 922 AD that related the fantastical journey of an Arab amongst Vikings who went in search of a monster that was plaguing villages. When I was first introduced to this book, it was a rare, illustrated version that had some beautiful, woodcut illustrations that inspired many of my own drawings.

Michael Crichton will be missed.