Robin Cook

Robin Cook (born May 4, 1940) is an American physician and novelist who writes about medicine, biotechnology, and topics affecting public health. He is best known for combining medical writing with the thriller genre. Many of his books have been bestsellers on the "New York Times Best Seller list". Several of his books have also been featured in Reader's Digest. His books have sold nearly 400 million copies worldwide.

Early life and education

Cook was born in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in Queens, New York City. He graduated from Wesleyan University and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, and completed his residency at Harvard Medical School.

Career

Cook served in the United States Navy as a physician during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he began a private practice and wrote his first novel, The Year of the Intern (1972). However, it was his second novel, Coma (1977), that catapulted Cook into the spotlight. Coma was a medical thriller that combined Cook's medical expertise with a suspenseful plot, setting the tone for many of his future novels.

Cook's other notable works include Outbreak (1987), Invasion (1997), and Pandemic (2018). His novels often center around issues such as organ transplantation, fertility treatment, genetic engineering, and bioterrorism.

Personal life

Cook is married to Jean Reed. He divides his time between homes in Boston, Massachusetts and Naples, Florida.

Legacy

Cook's work has had a significant impact on the medical thriller genre. His novels have been credited with popularizing the genre and have influenced many other authors. In addition, his books have raised public awareness about various medical and public health issues.

Bibliography

Cook has written over 30 novels. Some of his most popular works include:

• Coma (1977)
• Outbreak (1987)
• Invasion (1997)
• Pandemic (2018)

See also

• List of works by Robin Cook
• Medical thriller
• Biotechnology in fiction