Sphere

From financial planning books, to kid classics, to sci-fi!  Today’s read was Michael Crichton’s Sphere, a sci-fi/psychological thriller.  Norman Johnson and a team of experts are called to assist in examining an “alien spacecraft”  that lies at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean.  Much to the scientists' surprise, not until they are actually down there do they realize, wow this isn’t alien… it’s an American-created craft that was created 50 years from now!  During the trials of this thriller the crew meets a mysterious spherical object that confronts them and leads to the last standing to face their own fears.  Since you have some of the smartest scientists and of course psychologists, they get to communicate with the sphere, well kind of since it actually starts to control those who entered it.  In the end, psychology beats out science and Norman and his two colleagues give up “the power” they receive from entering the sphere.  Sci-fi is not my favorite type of book, but you know what, I am enjoying it more and more.  Crichton, best known for his work with Jurassic Park, creates a believable thriller with characters who are interesting and who face the scientific challenge that means create.  Well done. I would add to the list.  Starting to change my mind on these sci-fi books.  Good read!