The Best of 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 their many and varied exploits provide Rumpole with much work; 'Miz Liz' Probert, Rumpole's feminist protégé; uncle Tom, who hasn't seen a brief for many a year and spends his days in chambers practicing his putting; and many others. While very humourous, some of the humour is a bit dated, though this may be part of its appeal for some. The book is a collection of short stories, originally published elsewhere, and each stands alone. so you are able to dip in and out of this book. I am not really a fan of legal stories, humourous or otherwise, but in short dose these make a light break. It is also a good introduction to the Rumpole stories for those who haven't encountered Rumpole before, or have only met his television incarnation. And the individual stories are short, so it's not like you have wasted much of your time if they are not for you

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 Rumpole to get to know him as he develops over the course of the original stories. On the other hand, this makes a terrific airplane or travel read, even for those who've read them all before (Rumpole is one of those characters that not only holds up well read after read but actually improves with familiarity).

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 Rumpoles are probably Rumpole a la Carte and Rumpole on Trial; this "Best of" compilation features stories, chosen by Mortimer, from several different eras, including Rumpole's very first appearance. The book is a good way to get acquainted with Rumpole, and it also makes a great gift.The only possible downside is that, after reading the Rumpole stories, you may think that Mortimer's other fiction doesn't *quite* measure up. Here's hoping he decides to bring back Rumpole!

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 the thoughts and words of Horace Rumpole. Rumpole is a good sort, who seems often the underdog, but deep down he is the barrister who would be the champion for the unjust.