How to Succeed in Law School (How to Succeed in Law School, 3rd ed)

Rating:
Summary: Where's the beef?
Review: As an entering law student, I was looking for a substantive prep book ... and some advice on how to get through my first year. This book offered important but rather skeletal comments ("review your notes often" "read the assignments before class" "manage your stress levels and eat properly" etc). Also, the in-class note taking and case briefing concentrated on handwritten methods, despite the proliferation of laptops (and a 2001 copywright date). However this book did not take a "One L" approach of frightening the reader. After reading it I DO feel more prepared and confident than I previously did-- if nothing else than for the opportunity to develop my own case briefing style and to begin to familiarize myself with law school reading.
It's a quick read; but I think that I will combine it with another book.

Rating:
Summary: With this book you could skip orientation!
Review: I spent 5 days from 9 to 5 at my schools orientation, when in reality all I needed was this book. It covers everything, but without all the extra yapping. And it is an excellent source to refer to. At first I wasn't sure if I should buy it because it wasnt recommended by my school, but I'm glad I did. It really does cover EVERYTHING. . .how to brief a case (IRAC), how to take notes, practice tests, and to how to cope with stress and so much more. This book is especially good for that first year student who doesn't know what to expect. Don't spend your money on other books that aren't as good, this book is all you'll need.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent - 3Ls should see Common Sense Rules of Advocacy
Review: Munneke's book is excellent. But if you want to learn how an advocate thinks, you should also read Keith Evan's "Common Sense Rules of Advocacy for Lawyers."

Mr. Evans tried hundreds of jury trials as a trial lawyer in California for many years, after a decade as a barrister in England. He also taught as an adjunct law professor and gave many presentations to American Inns of Court.

More information about Evans' book is available: search Amazon for ISBN 1587330059

If you want to do well in law school, buy "How to Succeed in Law School". If you want to effectively persuade others, especially when you are a 3L or after law school, get "Common Sense Rules of Advocacy for Lawyers."