Fantastic read

A really wonderful read from an amazing barrister. He tells his story from childhood to his professional career.

I would recommend for lawyers and non-lawyers alike.

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a necessary reflection on modern Britain

Recommended for anyone with an interest in civil liberties and HR in the UK, or anyone willing to examine the continued operation of racism, both on a systemic and individual level.

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An amazing story of an extraordinary life.

It’s a slow-burn start, but once it gets going it turns out to be equal parts wonderful and shameful as the author recounts his life as a person of colour fighting for justice in a prejudiced system. I am glad to have experienced his journey and also heartened that justice, in most cases, is finally achieved. Right up there with Jews don’t count, this should be required reading in any modern judicial or political career,

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An essential story, poorly delivered

Firstly, this book is unique amongst the genre it belongs (non-fiction professional). It is an important story, essential even. The weaving of the author’s family history, the appalling experiences they faced, and his own journey into the legal profession is as contemporary as it is compelling.

BUT, I had to return my copy with a heavy heart. The author narrates the work, whilst this gives some authenticity to the story, i found it a bit clunky in too many places. However, the most irritating part is the incredibly poor recording - you can hear the pages turning (literally). This isn’t just once or twice this is throughout the first part of the book (I gave up at this point).

I will read the print version as this is an important story that should be heard. But the audiobook is of poor quality in both narration (sometimes a professional voice artist is worth the expenditure) and recording.

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Useful for learning about becoming a barrister

Okay for the legal details re becoming a barrister and the old boys network. Some of the book grabbed me others I skipped so it’s really a pick and mix book. It did give me a better idea surrounding the extra problems he had because of his skin colour. I thought it was well read. Bought as a BOGOF.

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listen, and listen again

Compelling, honest, and well-read account of a dauntless, grafting, and implacable spirit dedicated to fairness and truth.

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honesty

Good book to listen to and understand the law and unban from a now QC who was deemed he wouldn't get no where at sch.

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A great read by a great human being

I found this book by chance on the Gresham site just before holiday.
The 1st week of my holiday has been made by this book and more importantly this man. It has been illuminating and interesting. I am as proud as your mum of your achievements. A great life, well lived, based on the very best qualities of humans. Thank you for opening my eyes.

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1 person found this helpful

Interesting content

The actual content was interesting but unfortunately the author's delivery was monotone and he sounded bored. I also found the fact that you could hear pages being turned made it sound quite amateur. The production really let it down, I would have returned it had the stories not been so interesting

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Reassuring that Human Rights are being defended

Having read all of the Secret Barrister books I had become somewhat despondent as to the prospects for the UK Justice system, be that Civil or Criminal. Knowing that Barristers such as Lesley Thomas KC still exist is therefore very reassuring. It’s also an encouraging book for any parent whose child is going off the rails a little when it comes to academic achievement: It can still work out well, as Lesley’s book is testament to.

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