BOOK BRIEF

A Case of Need

Michael Crichton
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A Case of Need

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017

Book Brief

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Michael Crichton

A Case of Need

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

319

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Boston, Massachusetts • 1960s

Topic
Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

A Case of Need by Michael Crichton follows Dr. John Berry, a pathologist who investigates the circumstances surrounding the death of Karen Randall. The story delves into complex medical and social issues, highlighting Berry's quest to uncover the truth amidst legal and ethical challenges.

Reviews & Readership

3.7

39,308 ratings

62%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Michael Crichton's A Case of Need is praised for its gripping medical thriller elements and insightful commentary on medical ethics. Critics highlight its well-researched detail and compelling narrative. However, some note the pacing can be uneven and secondary characters underdeveloped. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking and engaging read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Case of Need?

A reader who would enjoy A Case of Need by Michael Crichton likely appreciates medical thrillers rich in suspense and complex ethical issues. Fans of Robin Cook's Coma or Tess Gerritsen's Harvest will find the blend of medical detail and gripping narrative engaging. Such readers are drawn to intricately plotted stories that explore the darker sides of medicine and morality.

3.7

39,308 ratings

62%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Originally published under the pseudonym Jeffrey Hudson, A Case of Need was Michael Crichton's fourth novel and won the Edgar Award for Best Novel in 1969, showcasing Crichton's early proficiency in medical thrillers.

Michael Crichton wrote A Case of Need while he was still a medical student at Harvard Medical School, blending his knowledge of medicine with a gripping, suspenseful narrative.

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The novel was one of the first major works by Crichton that explored complex ethical and medical issues, themes which would become a trademark of his later works.

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Book Details
Pages

319

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Boston, Massachusetts • 1960s

Topic
Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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