Review of "Forever Rumpole" (2011) by John Mortimer
You may say "Rumpole, again?" Oh yes, again. Mortimer is such a splendid writer, plot manager (he notes three in every story), and story teller, that a reprise is well worth it.
You can skip some of the 15 stories you have read and probably re-read, but this edition has some that probably you have not read before, and they are just as delicious as the others.
There are two introductory sections: an Introduction by Ann Mallalieu (a long-time associate), and a wonderful Author's Introduction by Mortimer. Both of these give added atmosphere and background to the imagination and talent of an extraordinary writer.
The subtle humor never fails to enliven an intellectual journey into a world that Mallalieu notes is already changed "out of recognition."This volume takes on additional gravitas since there will be no more "Rumpole Stories." Mortimer died in 2009.
Review by a Gulfport
