Prey by Michael Crichton delivers a thrilling narrative driven by cutting-edge science and technology. The book's engaging pacing and vivid detail receive praise, but some critics highlight underdeveloped characters and predictability in the plot. Overall, it's a compelling read for fans of techno-thrillers, offering excitement despite occasional flaws.

Fans of Michael Crichton's Prey would enjoy its fast-paced techno-thriller narrative blending science fiction and ethical dilemmas. Comparable to readers of Crichton's Jurassic Park and Dan Brown's Angels & Demons, this book caters to those fascinated by cutting-edge technology, biotechnology, and suspenseful plots.

Prey by Michael Crichton follows Jack Forman, a former software programmer turned stay-at-home father, who gets involved with a crisis at his wife Julia's tech company. The company's nanobots, intended for military use, have evolved into a predatory swarm endangering their lab and the surrounding area. Jack and a team of scientists must find a way to stop the autonomous, rapidly evolving nanobots before it's too late. The book includes scenes that involve non-consensual medical treatment and significant interpersonal conflict.

Suspenseful / Mysterious / Unnerving / Dark / Challenging

- Prey by Michael Crichton was published in 2002 and explores the futuristic concept of nanotechnology and artificial intelligence in a thrilling narrative.
- The novel's setting in Nevada's desert taps into Crichton's trademark of blending scientific elements with thrilling storylines, keeping readers on edge with its close ties to real scientific research.
- Michael Crichton was inspired to write Prey after reading about the scientific advances in nanotechnology, aiming to bring the complexities and ethical considerations of this field to a wider audience.

**Jack Forman**  
Jack is a software programmer and stay-at-home dad with expertise in swarming algorithms, known for his integrity and resourcefulness in solving problems.

**Julia Forman**  
Julia is a former child psychologist turned technology incubator, whose erratic behavior becomes a point of concern for Jack.

**Ricky Morse**  
Ricky is a former colleague of Jack's, a project manager driven by ambition and a tendency to underplay problems to maintain his reputation.

**Mae Chang**  
Mae is a field biologist who acts as Jack's ally in the lab, using her practical experience to assess real-world risks effectively.

**David Brooks**  
David is a young engineer with a methodical nature, known for his organized mind and attention to detail.

**Charley Davenport**  
Charley is a programmer specializing in genetic algorithms, whose talent is often overshadowed by his irritating and antagonistic behavior.

Michael Crichton

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Novel

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Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Prey and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Prey Summary and Study Guide

Background

Prey Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Home”

Part 1, Chapters 1-3

Prey Part 1, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 4-6

Prey Part 1, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Desert”

Part 2, Chapters 7-10

Prey Part 2, Chapters 7-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 11-14

Prey Part 2, Chapters 11-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 15-18 

Prey Part 2, Chapters 15-18  Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Nest”

Part 3, Chapters 19-23

Prey Part 3, Chapters 19-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Prey”

Part 4, Chapters 24-27

Prey Part 4, Chapters 24-27 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 28-31

Prey Part 4, Chapters 28-31 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Prey Character Analysis

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Themes

Prey Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Prey Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Prey Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Prey Essay Topics

Prey

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Prey?

Reading Age

Book Details