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The Rainmaker

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995

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Book Brief

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John Grisham

The Rainmaker

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995
Book Details
Pages

608

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Memphis, Tennessee • 1990s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

830L

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Super Short Summary

In The Rainmaker by John Grisham, Rudy Baylor, a broke law student nearing graduation, takes on a challenging case against a corrupt insurance company while dealing with personal struggles and forming unexpected alliances. The story follows his journey through financial hardship, ethical dilemmas, and legal battles as he fights for justice and navigates complex human relationships. This book includes scenes of domestic abuse.

Gritty

Suspenseful

Challenging

Emotional

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.3

213,382 ratings

74%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Grisham's The Rainmaker is lauded for its engaging, page-turning narrative and deep dive into legal intricacies, making it a compelling read. However, some critics note that character development can be lacking and the plot occasionally predictable. Overall, it's a captivating courtroom drama with enough twists to keep readers invested.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Rainmaker?

A fan of legal thrillers with David vs. Goliath themes will enjoy The Rainmaker by John Grisham. Comparable to Grisham's A Time to Kill and Scott Turow's Presumed Innocent, this novel attracts readers who appreciate courtroom drama, underdog protagonists, and moral dilemmas in the legal system.

4.3

213,382 ratings

74%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Rudy Baylor

A young, idealistic law student in his final year, grappling with the decision of becoming a lawyer while dealing with personal and ethical challenges. He engages with various characters as he navigates legal battles and personal growth.

Rudy’s best friend in law school, known for his stability and support, who provides practical assistance and encouragement to Rudy throughout his legal journey.

A resourceful, middle-aged law school graduate who hasn't passed the bar exam but serves as Rudy’s pragmatic and loyal sidekick, assisting with legal and investigatory tasks.

A young woman Rudy meets in a hospital, who is in an abusive marriage and provides a romantic interest in the story, relying on Rudy for help and protection.

An elderly widow who initially attracts Rudy with rumors of her wealth but eventually reveals a need for genuine friendship, challenging Rudy’s perceptions of greed and compassion.

A struggling family facing economic hardships, whose legal battle against a corporate insurance giant is central to Rudy’s case, representing the plight of the economically disadvantaged.

A successful lawyer and partner at a prestigious firm, who becomes a key figure in the courtroom during Rudy’s pivotal legal battle, symbolizing change within the legal system.

An experienced and formidable senior lawyer at a powerful Memphis law firm, who serves as Rudy’s principal opponent in a high-stakes legal case.

Book Details
Pages

608

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Memphis, Tennessee • 1990s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

830L

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