Mortimer: Collected Plays Volume Two : Book Review

"Mortimer" is an autobiography penned by the renowned British author and barrister, John Mortimer. Through this captivating memoir, Mortimer takes readers on a journey through his life and career, offering insights and humor along the way.

The book provides a glimpse into Mortimer's upbringing in a middle-class family, his time at Oxford University, and his experiences as a young barrister. Throughout the pages, he shares details about the fascinating cases he worked on, shedding light on the intricacies of the British legal system. He also introduces us to the eccentric characters he encountered throughout his career. Mortimer's storytelling skills truly shine as he vividly describes the courtroom dramas and the complexities of human nature that he observed.

In addition to his professional life, "Mortimer" also delves into the author's personal experiences. Mortimer recounts anecdotes about his marriages, his relationships with his children, and his battles with his own health. Through his candid and self-deprecating tone, readers are treated to heartfelt reflections and lighthearted moments that showcase his wit and charm.

Furthermore, Mortimer shares his insights into his successful career as a writer. He dives into his creative process, divulges his motivations, and discusses the sources of inspiration for his most famous works, including the beloved "Rumpole of the Bailey" series. He also delves into his involvement in the theater, highlighting the joys and challenges of adapting his literary works for the stage.

Overall, "Mortimer" is a delightful and engaging autobiography that invites readers to get to know the man behind the impressive legal career and literary accomplishments. With his trademark intelligence and wit, John Mortimer offers a candid and entertaining account of his life, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the complexities of the human experience.

What are readers saying?

John Mortimer's book, "Mortimer," received a mix of reviews from readers. Some readers enjoyed the book, praising its engaging plot and well-developed characters. They found the writing style witty and enjoyed the clever dialogue of the protagonist. This group highly recommended the book for fans of Mortimer's other works.

On the other hand, some readers were disappointed by the book. They felt that the plot lacked originality and became predictable, which resulted in a lack of suspense. Additionally, a few reviewers found the characters to be flat and clichéd, lacking depth or complexity.

One reviewer expressed their disappointment with the pacing of "Mortimer," noting that certain parts dragged and caused them to lose interest. They felt that the potential of the plot was not fully realized, leading to a lack of engagement throughout the book. This sentiment was shared by others who found the story to be slow-paced and lacking excitement.

Despite the mixed reviews, several readers appreciated the book's exploration of legal and ethical dilemmas. They found it thought-provoking and commendable how the author raised questions about justice and morality within the legal system. These aspects, along with the book's entertaining elements, were particularly enjoyed by those who rated it positively.

Overall, the reviews for "Mortimer" by John Mortimer present a range of opinions. While some readers enjoyed the engaging plot and witty writing style, others found the book lacking in originality and character development. The exploration of legal and ethical dilemmas received praise from some, but others felt that the book suffered from a slow pace. Ultimately, individual preferences and expectations played a significant role in shaping these varied reviews.

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