58 pages • 1 hour read
The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court
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Book Brief
480
Book • Nonfiction
Washington, D.C. • 1990s-2000s
2007
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Nine, Jeffrey Toobin delves into the transformation of the U.S. Supreme Court from liberal to conservative over 35 years, beginning with Reagan's presidency and culminating in the 2005 death of Chief Justice Rehnquist. He explores the ideological shifts through key judicial appointments, landmark cases, and the Court's influence on American politics, focusing particularly on Reagan, Bush, and Clinton's reforms, the contentious 2000 presidential election decision, and the eventual solidification of a conservative majority under George W. Bush’s administration. The book covers sensitive topics such as legal battles over abortion and school desegregation.
Informative
Contemplative
Mysterious
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
19,352 ratings
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Review Roundup
Jeffrey Toobin's The Nine provides a detailed, engaging look into the inner workings of the U.S. Supreme Court, blending history and personal narratives of the justices. Praised for its thorough research and accessibility, some critics felt it leaned towards liberal viewpoints. Overall, it's an enlightening read for anyone interested in the judiciary's complexities.
Who Should Read The Nine?
Readers who appreciate The Nine by Jeffrey Toobin are likely intrigued by the inner workings of the U.S. Supreme Court, enjoy legal dramas, and have a keen interest in political history. Fans of works like The Brethren by Bob Woodward and Scott Armstrong or Gideon's Trumpet by Anthony Lewis will find this book compelling.
19,352 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Chief Justice William Rehnquist
Chief Justice William Rehnquist
Appointed in the early 1970s, he served as an associate justice before becoming the chief justice in the mid-1980s, noted for his conservative views.
Justice John Paul Stevens
Justice John Paul Stevens
Appointed by Gerald Ford, he was known for his long tenure and became a liberal voice on the Supreme Court.
Justice Sandra Day O’Connor
Justice Sandra Day O’Connor
The first woman appointed to the Supreme Court, she often served as a swing vote, aiming for balance and practicality in her decisions.
Justice Antonin Scalia
Justice Antonin Scalia
A staunch conservative and originalist, known for his strong personality and commitment to the framers' original intent of the Constitution.
Justice Anthony Kennedy
Justice Anthony Kennedy
Appointed by Reagan, he often acted as a swing vote, with decisions incorporating both conservative and liberal elements.
Justice David Souter
Justice David Souter
Appointed by George H. W. Bush, he was known for maintaining stability and protecting individual freedoms through legal precedent.
Justice Clarence Thomas
Justice Clarence Thomas
Selected by George H. W. Bush for his conservative views, he was an originalist who kept a low profile during oral arguments.
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Appointed by Bill Clinton, she was a pioneering jurist for women's rights, consistently voting with the liberal bloc.
Justice Stephen Breyer
Justice Stephen Breyer
Known for his liberal stance and ability to form coalitions, he was appointed by Clinton and had a strong appreciation for Congress.
Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.
Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.
Appointed by George W. Bush, known for his amiable nature and leading conservative judgments without always overturning precedent.
Justice Samuel Alito Jr.
Justice Samuel Alito Jr.
Appointed by George W. Bush, he is recognized for his consistently conservative voting pattern.
480
Book • Nonfiction
Washington, D.C. • 1990s-2000s
2007
Adult
18+ years
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