This is an amazing novel, one that keeps the reader wondering, "Could something like this ever really happen?" And I mean that in the best way possible--Crichton makes readers believe in the plots of his novels...readers come to think that maybe, just maybe, something like what happens in the novel *could* happen.
If you have seen the movie, disregard everything you have seen. The movie is full of special effects and action--tricks to keep movie-goers interested. The novel is full of much more. The plot is much richer and well-written, with interesting characters and beautifully described scenery. This book is well-worth reading.