2008-09-02 Entertaining

As a British reader I am not familiar with the ins and outs of the American legal system, and if this novel is, in any way, remotely a reflection of the reality of jury selection procedures over there, then I am amazed. The novel is an enjoyable read, and Grisham builds up the suspense at just the right pace without being overly dramatic. I feel the ending is rather predictable, and the "parting shot" in the final chapter a bit rushed (a common problem in many novels I've read). That, however, is a minor criticism.

In terms of style, there is a slight touch of the Kafkaesque about Grisham's description of the atmosphere and procedures in the courtroom, and this adds an entertaining feel of black humour consistent with the legal culture in which the plot is being worked out.

The novel does have a "message": various issues about personal consumer choice with regard to dangerous products such as, of course, tobacco are discussed, as well as problems of jury tampering and the consequences of legal precedent in a highly litigious society. Although the novel tends to lead the reader in a certain direction, Grisham has not, in my opinion, entirely succeeded in discrediting the position which with he clearly disagrees. I regard that as a plus, and for that reason I am giving the book 5 stars.