'Next' by Michael Crichton is a science fiction novel that delves into the ethical and legal dilemmas surrounding genetic engineering and research. The book explores a near-future world where genetic manipulations lead to legal chaos, intertwining various scenarios to illustrate the potential horrors of science gone wrong. Crichton's writing style cuts between scenes, challenging the reader to keep track of multiple storylines and characters, ultimately painting a chilling picture of technology and science spiraling out of control.

The novel presents a fast-paced and thought-provoking narrative, blending action, adventure, and humor to create an entertaining story. Through a multitude of interconnected plotlines, 'Next' raises questions about the direction of genetic research and the implications of genetic manipulation on both humans and animals. Despite some criticisms about the fragmented plot and abundance of characters, the book offers a compelling exploration of the consequences of genetic experimentation and the complexities of the biotechnological landscape.

Characters:

The characters range from morally ambiguous scientists to exaggerated figures, creating a kaleidoscopic view of societal reactions to genetic manipulation.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is brisk and fragmented, featuring short chapters and alternating character perspectives, aimed at keeping the reader engaged despite a convoluted structure.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative interweaves various storylines about genetic engineering, tackling issues of gene patenting and ethical quandaries, forming a complex mosaic of events.

Setting:

The setting is modern and anticipatory, illustrating a world grappling with the moral and ethical challenges of genetic technology.

Pacing:

The pacing is fast and fragmented, effectively hastening the narrative while challenging reader comprehension.

Division 48 of Los Angeles Superior Court was a wood-paneled room dominated by the great seal of the state of California. The room was small and had a tawdry feeling. The reddish carpet was frayed and...

Notes:

Michael Crichton's book Next blends fiction with real scientific concepts in genetics.

The book addresses the issue of gene patenting and its ethical implications.

Crichton introduces a variety of characters, including a transgenic monkey and a talking parrot named Gerard.

The narrative style comprises multiple short chapters, which can make it hard to follow due to the numerous characters.

The author implies that genetic technology could lead to real-world scenarios that raise significant moral questions.

In a unique twist, he suggests that a drug addict is cured through gene therapy that accelerates aging.

The story reflects the chaos and potential dangers of unregulated genetic research, likening it to a 'Wild West' environment.

Crichton openly shares his views on legislation regarding genetic research in a detailed 'Author's Note' at the end of the book.

The book combines various subplots including legal battles, corporate espionage, and personal dilemmas related to genetic ownership and rights.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Next contains high content warnings for themes such as genetic manipulation, drug addiction, corporate greed, ethical dilemmas, and characters facing death.

From The Publisher:

From Michael Crichton, the #1 bestselling author of Jurassic Park and The Andromeda Strain, comes an astounding, eye-opening look at the world of genetics: Next.

Is a loved one missing some body parts? Are blondes becoming extinct? Is everyone at your dinner table of the same species? Humans and chimpanzees differ in only 400 genes; is that why a chimp fetus resembles a human being? And should that worry us? There's a new genetic cure for drug addiction-is it worse than the disease?

Devilishly clever, Next blends fact and fiction into a breathless tale of a new world where nothing is what it seems, and genetic ownership shatters our assumptions.

Ratings (11)

Loved It (5)
Liked It (3)
It Was OK (2)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (21):

Read It (12)
Want To Read (8)
Not Interested (1)

1 comment(s)

ColorfulLeo92

Loved It

1 month

Michael Crichton has some really cool plots and ideas and definitely delivered. It was an interesting audiobook to listen to but not a new fave. 3.7 stars

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