The Best of Rumpole: Chosen By the Author (Rumpole)

This is a selection of stories chosen by the author himself, showcasing the talents and idiosyncrasies of Horace Rumpole, described by his own wife (known as 'She Who Must be Obeyed') as a character. We follow Rumpole through various cases, which give us an insight into Rumpole's views of life and the law (he is quite scathing of both). We meet various regular inhabitants of the Rumpole stories - the Timosn family, who with... Read Full Review

Well, yes, a strong case could be made that these stories represent the Best of Rumpole, although Rumpolemaniacs must argue for a few omitted cases, but, great as these stories are - and they are engaging, clever, funny, satisfying - I don't know what the purpose of this sampler is meant to be. To introduce Rumpole to a prospective reader I would start with The First Rumpole Omnibus. It addds much to the pleasure of reading... Read Full Review

If you were introduced, as I was, to the Rumpole character through the excellent PBS series, there's a treat in store for you. John Mortimer's Rumpole stories are almost too good to be true; they're witty, humorous, and can be enjoyed as examples of good writing in addition to being well-plotted mysteries. They're one of the few mystery series which don't lose enjoyment even after you've seen the film adaptations. My favorite... Read Full Review

Mortimer paints a realistic picture of life in a barristers' chambers, but lightens the solemn and sombre mood with the playful descriptions of the characters to whom you will become strongly attached in time. Even though for one who does not hail from an English background, it was relatively easy to comprehend the sarcasm and ironies aimed at the empty follies of the English legal practioners, which Mortimer portrays through... Read Full Review