HarperCollins Signs Book Deal With Michael Crichton

Posted on February 15, 2001

HarperCollins Publishers announced that it has signed a two book deal with bestselling author Michael Crichton. Variety reported that the offer was $40 million for two books. The first title will be published in 2002. HarperCollins negotiated the deal with Lynn Nesbit, Crichton's agent of 33 years. The deal puts Crichton back with Jane Friedman, the original publisher of his first book, The Andromeda Strain. Before the new deal Crichton was publishing with Knopf, which is owned by Random House.

``This change is particularly meaningful because it gives me the opportunity once again to work with Jane Friedman, a friend and colleague,'' said Crichton. ``Jane and I published together for nearly 30 years, starting in 1969 with The Andromeda Strain. I have been watching what she and her dynamic team at HarperCollins have accomplished over the last few years, and I am looking forward to working with them.''

``Publishing is built on relationships,'' said Jane Friedman, President and CEO of HarperCollins Publishers. ``Michael and I have a long history. We grew up together in this business, and our reunion makes this a special opportunity for me - and for HarperCollins - to publish one of the most successful authors of all time.''

Crichton is the author of 12 novels, all which have been New York Times bestsellers, including his latest book Timeline. He has directed six movies, including Westworld, Coma, and The Great Train Robbery, and is the creator of the hit television series ER. Crichton is also the author of several works of non-fiction, including Five Patients: The Hospital Explained, Electronic Life, Jasper Johns, and Travels. 10 of his novels have been made into films, including Jurassic Park.