Book Reviews

In‑depth critiques from leading legal minds.

Every review is written by a member of the Burton Book Review Committee or an invited scholar, delivering concise, practice‑ready insight into each featured title.

Topic
In Reading the Constitution: Why I Chose Pragmatism, Not Textualism (2024), retired Justice Stephen Breyer offers a thoughtful look at how judges interpret legal texts. Breyer argues for a pragmatic approach that values constitutional principles, purposes, and practical consequences alongside textual fidelity. Drawing on real cases from his time on the Court, he illustrates the strengths and limits of competing judicial methods in a clear, accessible style. Both legal professionals and curious readers will find his reflections insightful, particularly at a time of heightened ideological tension on the Court.

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“The Reviews are an indispensable guide for legal scholars and practitioners alike.”
Sheila Hollis

“The Reviews are an indispensable guide for legal scholars and practitioners alike.”
Sheila Hollis