"It does not take the reader very long to realise that it is more detailed and more thoughtful than most judicial biographies. It combines an analysis of personality with the twin themes of law and politics …In respect of law, politics and character the manuscript builds to a convincing and rounded conclusion…This book has the capacity to be both useful and provocative to legal specialists. In general I think it is referenced to a level which will give it a lively and useful role in debates between legal historians."—Professor Ray Cocks, Professor of Law, Keele University. "An excellent biography of one of the most interesting legal minds of his day. Professor Lentin explains, in each step of Sumner's life, the astute, perceptive mind which cut to the core of issues, making enemies along the way, but leaving a legacy which has lasted for 90 years. The writing-style is precise, yet has a wry humour which makes it both informative and entertaining….Lentin clearly demonstrates the characteristics that made Sumner stand apart from so many of his contemporaries; his unwillingness to compromise made him a figure to be respected and admired, but not particularly liked. It is perhaps at the Paris Peace Conference where Sumner's formidable traits were most clearly demonstrated, and where enemies were made. The challenge of writing an absorbing biography of a man whom he has described as 'cutting, acerbic, cynical and contemptuous', whilst retaining sympathy and respect for the man, is one to which Professor Lentin has risen admirably. There is something here for everyone: law, history, politics, and a well-written and accessible account of his life and times of a fascinating character"—Dr Carolyn J. Kitching, Reader in British International History, University of Teesside.'A legal and literary Genius': such is the picture of Lord Sumner that emerges from this very scholarly, as well as readable and thought provoking biography. This biography by Cambridge Scholars Publishing is a welcome addition to the legal biographies library. It's an extremely meticulous work which presents John Hamilton, Lord Sumner, in a sympathetic light which will delight historians, politicians and lawyers, as it sums him up brilliantly.Phillip Taylor, MBE'Antony Lentin, a historian and barrister, tells Sumner's story with brio and empathy, offering flashes of insight into wider Edwardian and inter-war politics as well as uncovering his subject's personal motivations, achievements and failures ... Lentin is a loyal and truthful biographer of Sumner, showing his flaws of arrogance and rancour as well as his courage, strength of personality, and commitment to ideals ... this elegantly written and thoughtful book deserves to be read. The author captures the main outlines of Sumner's legal contributions, and he has a sensitive understanding of Sumner's diehard brand of Toryism, and helps the reader penetrate into this now-extinct political mentality. Lentin's study of Sumner shows how much our understanding of the common law can be enhanced by the biographer and historian.'-Joshua Getzler, Law Quarterly Review 2009, 125(Oct), 702-709'Lentin's biography provides a well-researched, nuanced portrait of a complex man, suitable for a wide audience. The discussion of Lord Sumner's cases should prove useful to legal scholars, especially since his judgements continue to be cited in myriad national courts. Historians will benefit from the analysis of Lord Sumner's participation in events such as the Paris Peace Conference, and the examples of Lord Sumner's colonialist ideology will interest postcolonial scholars. Finally, the book may appeal to more general readers as it describes early-twentieth century debates about currently topical issues, including how a state should deal with terrorism, the desirability of judicial activism, and the appropriate balance of powers between executive, legislative and judicial authorities.'Wendy A. Matlock, Kansas State University in Law and Society Review, 44, 1 (2010, 198-200)
