Matt Richtel Books

A magnificently reported and soulfully crafted exploration of the human immune system–the key to health and wellness, life and death. An epic, first-of-its-kind book, entwining leading-edge scientific discovery with the intimate stories of four individual lives, by the Pulitzer Prize–winning New York Times journalist. “An Elegant Defense by Matt Richtel is one of those rare nonfiction books that transcends the genre. On one level it is a fascinating and engrossing account of the latest, and quite astonishing, discoveries involving the human immune system and how it works. But it is also a story about people facing mortality, about the passion of scientists searching for truth, and a meditation on death and how all of us struggle with the ultimate mystery. Heartfelt and moving, full of compassion, love, and the human drama, this is the work of a writer of high ethical character who is grappling with big issues and deep humanistic problems. What an inspiring and wonderful read. I highly recommend this extraordinary book.” —DOUGLAS PRESTON, #1 bestselling author of The Lost City of the Monkey God

A groundbreaking narrative exploration of the human immune system--the key to human health and longevity--from the Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times journalist and acclaimed author of A Deadly Wandering--

From Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Matt Richtel, a brilliant, narrative-driven exploration of technology’s vast influence on the human mind and society, dramatically-told through the lens of a tragic “texting-while-driving” car crash that claimed the lives of two rocket scientists in 2006. In this ambitious, compelling, and beautifully written book, Matt Richtel, a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter for the New York Times, examines the impact of technology on our lives through the story of Utah college student Reggie Shaw, who killed two scientists while texting and driving. Richtel follows Reggie through the tragedy, the police investigation, his prosecution, and ultimately, his redemption. In the wake of his experience, Reggie has become a leading advocate against “distracted driving.” Richtel interweaves Reggie’s story with cutting-edge scientific findings regarding human attention and the impact of technology on our brains, proposing solid, practical, and actionable solutions to help manage this crisis individually and as a society. A propulsive read filled with fascinating, accessible detail, riveting narrative tension, and emotional depth, A Deadly Wandering explores one of the biggest questions of our time—what is all of our technology doing to us?—and provides unsettling and important answers and information we all need.

Through the lens of a deadly collision, the book offers a profound exploration of technology's extensive and growing influence on society. It delves into the intricate relationship between human lives and technological advancements, examining both the benefits and dangers that arise from this interplay. By intertwining a gripping narrative with critical insights, the work highlights the far-reaching consequences of our reliance on technology in contemporary life.

Exploring the unsettling concept of manipulated memories, this narrative delves into the implications of someone altering not only secrets but also the very fabric of our thoughts. As characters grapple with the loss of their true selves, the story raises questions about identity, trust, and the nature of reality. The tension builds as they confront the consequences of these transformations, leading to a gripping exploration of psychological intrigue and the fragility of the human mind.

The story follows Nat Idle, who survives a café explosion after receiving a mysterious note in his deceased girlfriend's handwriting. This pop thriller explores themes of love, loss, and the pervasive influence of technology on our lives. As Nat embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her death, he navigates a web of manipulation and conspiracy. With a fast-paced narrative, the novel critiques how digital technology shapes our thoughts and relationships, prompting readers to reconsider their own tech dependencies.

A late-night incident on a San Francisco subway platform dramatically shifts Nat Idle's life, leading him to question the nature of fate and coincidence. As he navigates this new reality, the story delves into themes of destiny and the interconnectedness of events, suggesting that nothing happens by chance. The narrative explores Nat's journey as he uncovers deeper truths about his existence and the choices that shape it.

MICHAEL CRICHTON meets STEPHEN KING at their finest ... with the creepiest opening I've ever read. - Lisa Gardner Joins the ranks of classic paranoid thrillers about human achievement run amok, with STEPHEN KING's The Stand and Michael Crichton's Terminal Man. - Joseph Finder A heart-stopping thriller.

A gripping technological thriller unfolds as a journalist crafts a high-stakes narrative where a single man races against time to avert a catastrophic outbreak of World War III. With a plot reminiscent of Michael Crichton's ingenuity, the story combines suspense and urgency, immersing readers in a scenario where the fate of the world hangs in the balance. The tension builds as the protagonist navigates complex challenges, making this an irresistible read for fans of action-packed narratives.