I just finished Taking the Stand: My Life in the Law by Alan M. Dershowitz. Overall it was a fascinating and stirring story of the journey of a Jewish resident of a gritty, working class neighborhood in Brooklyn to become a prominent law professor and lawyer. In many ways, despite the Jewish sheen, it is a classic American story or someone from an immigrant family who did very well for himself, earning every penny he had and helping many along the way. His book describes how he represented such people as O.J. Simpson, Klaus Von Bulow and other celebrities. It's the kind of book that makes you proud to be an American and, if Jewish like myself, proud to be Jewish.

Then why do I give it three stars (on Goodreads) rather than five? The book needed some serious fact-checking. The book tells of Jefferson's actions as John Adams' Secretary of State. I'm a history buff and knew the error. Another puts events in Israel out of chronological order. These are the kind of errors that unnecessarily detract from and undermine the book's overall message. Still a good and highly recommended read. ( )

America's most prominent legal mind Alan Dershowitz, recounts his legal autobiography, describing how he came to the law, as well as the cases that have changed American jurisprudence over the past 50 years, most of which he has personally been involved in. Earlier in the book he comments on the First Amendment and discusses cases he was involved in. He moves on to criminal law with plenty detailed examples of cases he was involved in. While not an easy read it is an informative read. It is easily understood by the lay reader and ITAKING THE STAND is a compelling read. The less you know about the law the more you are likely to be intrigued. I strongly urge you to read it. It is well written and a clear presentation of the law, especially the First Amendment and criminal law. He elaborates on particular cases to clarify his point of view. It is one of the best nonfiction reads in a while though I do confess to liking DUTY as well as DAYS OF FIRE. strongly recommend TAKING THE STAND: MY LIFE IN THE LAW. ( )