Growing up in Mississippi, I have always know John Grisham’s name. From his huge house outside of Oxford to his books and movies, some of which were shot in Mississippi, I have always felt that he was our very own version of a mythical being. As we would drive in to Oxford for football games, my dad would regale us with stories about John Grisham coaching tee ball and little league for his children, and even as a child I found these stories endearing.
When I heard that John would be publishing
a young adult series, the same image of a caring father came to mind, and I knew I wanted to read Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer to see what it was all about. I have to say that Theodore is an adorable character. He is thoughtful when it comes to his friends, loyal when trouble is afoot, and brave when he needs to be.
Theo is the only child of two busy lawyers, so this 13-year-old spends enough time around the courtroom to know quite a bit about the legal system. Every day after school he does his homework with his dog Judge in his “office” at his parents office building. He helps classmates with legal problems, such as bankrupt parents and escaped pets being held by the city pound. He even gets his Government class into the biggest trial of the year: the murder of a woman in her own home. The only suspect in this trial is the husband, but even with such little evidence, Theo tries to stay objective as he watches the trial progress. When a friend comes to Theo with some information that could make or break this case, Theo must decide if he should convince his friend come forward or let a murderer walk free.
John Grisham’s language when describing the ins and outs of the legal system is so clear that I was never confused. Also, Theo’s knowledge never seemed unrealistic–this smart kid loves law, and whereas my hobby as a thirteen-year-old was reading and dancing, his is legal knowledge. I had a lot of fun with this novel and cannot wait for the next book in this series, due very soon.
If you are a Grisham fan, young or old, you won’t be disappointed with this new brand of legal mystery. Adults will really enjoy another Grisham mystery, and Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys fans now have another series to devour. In the video below, Grisham talks about the inspiration behind Theo and the challenge of venturing into a new genre. Footage of John reading to his daughter’s classroom is also included, along with their very candid reactions to Theodore Boone.
We have signed first editions of Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer, so come on by and pick up one for you and one for the tween in your life.
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