Rumpole of the Bailey

Alone and without a leader

This is the original and best Rumpole by the late Sir John Mortimer QC an eminent member of the English bar himself. Reading this book again brings back nostalgic memories of the fabulous TV series of the same name featuring the late and great Australian actor, Leo McKern. Between them Mortimer and McKern captured the essence of the real practice of the law - cut and thrust, talent, innovation, cynicism, mateship, an understanding of the underlying jurisprudential principle of the rule of law and above all fun. Rumpole provides the complete answer to the question every lawyer fields many times during his/her working life "How can you represent a client who you know is guilty?" Wonderful and hugely entertaining.

5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Wordsworth in a Wig

My time at law school was punctuated most Sunday nights by another installment in the life of this less than glamorous, ever so cynical and brilliant Old Bailey "hack". I recall him being disparaged by many of my lecturers, many of whom had never steeped foot in a Courtroom save for the day they were Admitted. I laughed then as I laughed these last two days listening to the lovable old rogue weave his magic over juries and judges alike. Now a full quarter century later I can only marvel at the accuracy of the atmosphere Mortimer captures between the covers of these wonderfully entertaining books. I should not be suprised given Mortimer's pedigree (he was a Queer Customer after all, and it wasn't one gifted from the bottom of a Corn flakes packet). This was a perfect antidote for being banged up sick for two weeks. It filled the emptiness of being out of a Courtroom where I have spent half my life. I enjoyed it all over again, as I am sure that any person who has grown up in the common law system will, too. If you're in the US, then some of the niceties might strike you as odd. I confess that some of them strike me as odd, and I have practiced in a British-like system for nearly my whole life. Persevere with it, please. It is worth the effort.
Robert Hardy is an accomplished actor. He brought to the re-telling all that can be expected. There were occasions when I thought he was Hilda (SWMBO)! Of course he cannot truly be Rumpole because there was but one of him (Leo McKern), but he is a very suitable Junior indeed. It's hard to recall when a book made me smile and laugh out loud on such a regular basis. I recommend it to all, but particularly if you have a familiarity with the law (either side of it).

9 of 10 people found this review helpful

Wonderful material with a good reader

I am enjoying this book immensely. The stories are interesting and the reader seems to have a great feel for the material and the character of Rumpole.

4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Always Rumpole

Would you listen to Rumpole of the Bailey [AudioGo] again? Why?

I would listen to the book again because it shows how far society for the good changed in the last 30 years. The characters and thinking back then when the book was written is interesting at the least.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Rumpole because of his approach to most situation.

Which scene was your favorite?

The trail case in which the feud between two families were exposed.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The woman talking on the stand about being a victim.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

If you like law with a touch of england

If you could sum up Rumpole of the Bailey [AudioGo] in three words, what would they be?

This is what it should be. Learn of 'she who must be obeyed' Discover Pomeroy's best claret and the inhabitants of the old bailey. Love it or hate it but check it out!

What did you like best about this story?

it's a classic

Any additional comments?

you will love it or hate it, no half measures with Rumpole

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

old bailey for new listener

What did you love best about Rumpole of the Bailey [AudioGo]?

i like the easy access and portability of this product on my itouch

Who was your favorite character and why?

rumpole, the main man

What three words best describe Robert Hardy’s voice?

old school victorian

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

no

Any additional comments?

thanks for providing the service

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

a great read

I remember watching Rumpole on TV as a child and these stories read just like the show. I can picture Leo Mckern as the book is read - a great treat