One of my absolute best nonfiction reads is this remarkable book.

It vividly narrates a real-life courtroom drama that pits an aspiring lawyer against a group of company lawyers.

The case revolves around the accountability of two large companies that callously dumped toxic wastes, contaminating the water source of the nearby community.

This heinous act led to the tragic deaths of children who fell ill with cancer after being exposed to the said pollution.

The subsequent protracted legal battle is an absolute rollercoaster of emotions. It is frustrating, nail-biting, dramatic, suspenseful, and utterly engaging.

It's like a Grisham novel but with even better material, superior characterization, and a moral backbone.

I simply cannot fully convey the profound impact this book had on me when I read it.

I just recall that it made me feel both angry and hopeful.

Angry at the lengths to which powerful people will go to circumvent environmental laws, and hopeful that there are still decent individuals who will dedicate their lives to pursuing environmental justice at any cost.

Perhaps you have seen the movie starring John Travolta? I would highly recommend avoiding it.

I read this book because I had recently read "The Informant", and the blurb on the front cover boasted something like "The best nonfiction legal thriller since 'A Civil Action'!". I truly enjoyed "The Informant", so I thought I should give this one a try.

This book delves into the Woburn Case. In the 1970s, a group of people, mostly children, in a small town in Massachusetts developed leukemia. The townspeople had long complained about the quality of the tap water. Eventually, one of the mothers of a child with leukemia decided to seek legal help. After some analysis, the lawyer decided to sue several large companies in the town that he alleged had polluted the town's drinking water with trichloroethylene, an industrial solvent.

The author followed the plaintiffs, and the book portrays the companies as being in the wrong. However, when reading other materials about the case, it's not entirely clear how justifiable that stance is. There is strong evidence that the companies polluted, and I don't have much sympathy for them. But it's difficult to prove that they were the main cause of harm in this case. There were other businesses in the area that were likely, perhaps more likely than the defendants, to have polluted the same chemical, maybe in larger quantities, in a way and area that was more likely to have contaminated the water supply.

In the end, I had two main takeaways from the trial. The first is a great deal of sympathy for the plaintiffs. They were the ones who suffered from leukemia and other serious problems, yet they ended up with very little. The case had some settlements, but most of that went towards trial costs and lawyer fees. After the rest was divided, each family received very little. Secondly, every lawyer in this entire book came across poorly. The defendants' lawyers seemed terrible. Besides hiding evidence and playing legal games for an advantage rather than simply arguing the case on its merits, they were defending major polluters, not just trying to reach a reasonable outcome but to avoid any responsibility for contributing to the poisoning of a large number of people. The plaintiffs' lawyers weren't much better, and perhaps were even worse. They rarely seemed to have the plaintiffs' best interests at heart, instead working on the case in a way that was most beneficial to them. The plaintiffs' lawyers ignored the case for years while they focused on other matters, and then gambled on the outcome for their own benefit. Finally, they agreed to a conclusion that avoided what most of the victims seemed to want: an admission of guilt and a genuine attempt to uncover the facts of what happened.

The book is quite compelling, but it has some significant flaws. The biggest one is that it never really feels impartial. The author followed the plaintiffs' lawyers, deliberately avoiding communication with the defendants and their lawyers, and this shows. Also, the tone of the book seems overly dramatic, almost to the point of seeming fictional at times.

Overall, this book is a great read for anyone interested in real-life legal battles. There are many problems with the way it is written, so the reader would be wise to maintain a skeptical mindset, but it still offers an interesting perspective on the workings of a trial.

I'm in the business.

This was an extremely accurate and superbly well-written book that delved into an actual case.

The case was filled with a myriad of twists and turns, making it a captivating read.

Harr has presented the events in such a way that it feels like a thrilling suspense or mystery novel.

However, what makes this book all the more fascinating is the fact that it is a true story.

The authenticity adds an extra layer of intrigue and makes the reader truly engage with the details.

It's not just a fictional tale; it's a real account that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Whether you're interested in the legal aspects, the human drama, or just a good mystery, this book has something for everyone.

It's a must-read for those who enjoy true crime stories or want to gain a deeper understanding of how real cases unfold.

The vivid descriptions and engaging narrative make it a book that you won't be able to put down.

Overall, it's a remarkable piece of work that combines the best of both worlds: the excitement of a mystery novel and the authenticity of a true story.

This is an excellent book that vividly demonstrates how the legal system is tilted in favor of corporations.

Corporations have the means to hire numerous lawyers and engage in endless legal maneuvers to stall or delay court decisions for years.

The science of groundwater pollution presented in the trial and discovery is both complex and fascinating.

However, what is truly heartbreaking are the stories of the people in Woburn, MA, whose water was knowingly poisoned by the Grace company for years.

For me, one moral of this book is that most corporations are immoral actors. They show no regard for the fact that their actions may poison and kill people. Their sole concern is making money.

It is important to note for the Tea Party that this book clearly explains why we need an Environmental Protection Agency and regulations on extremely toxic chemicals.

It also highlights why federal action is necessary and essential in environmental matters.

This book is truly so underrated.

My word, it is astonishing just how much it has been overlooked.

One would think that with its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, it would have received more acclaim.

But alas, it seems to have fallen through the cracks.

The author has done an amazing job of creating a world that draws the reader in from the very first page.

The story unfolds in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to find out what happens next.

And yet, despite all of its qualities, it remains relatively unknown.

It's a real shame, because this book has the potential to touch the hearts and minds of many readers.

Hopefully, one day, it will get the recognition it deserves and be widely read and appreciated.

Until then, I will continue to sing its praises and recommend it to anyone who will listen.

Dang! I was really frustrated when I wrote a review for this and it somehow got deleted right before it was supposed to be posted.

Oh well, such is life sometimes. But let me tell you, I really hate Judge Skinner.

There are so many reasons for my intense dislike. Maybe it's the way he makes decisions that seem completely unjust. Or perhaps it's his attitude during court proceedings that just rubs me the wrong way.

Whatever the reason, Judge Skinner has definitely earned my contempt. I hope that others will see through his flaws and hold him accountable for his actions.

Until then, I will continue to voice my opinion and let everyone know how I feel about this particular judge.

Personal Response:

I have a profound appreciation for A Civil Action by Jonathan Harr. This remarkable work vividly portrays the intense struggle between a lawyer and a client, both of whom have reached a point where they have nothing left to lose. Against the backdrop of two powerful major companies flush with money, their fight is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. It showcases the courage and determination of those who fight with limited resources, highlighting the power that an individual can possess. Without Anne's unwavering actions, the people of Woburn would have likely never received any form of settlement, regardless of how minuscule it may have been.

Plot Summary:

In Woburn, Massachusetts, children are falling ill one after another. Anne Anderson's three-year-old son is among the afflicted. Upon receiving the leukemia diagnosis, Anne begins to piece together the numerous other cases in the area and realizes that something in the environment is causing the alarming increase in leukemia cases among children. Her research eventually leads to a civil suit against two major corporations: Beatrice Food and Grace Chemical. These companies are suspected of having dumped carcinogens into the groundwater near Woburn's G and H wells. The water from these wells is known to have an unpleasant odor, taste, and even an unusual color. The case is taken on by lawyer Jan Schlichtmann, who ends up spending a staggering two million dollars on geographical and historical research. Despite the evidence against them, Beatrice Food is acquitted by the court, and Jan receives a smaller-than-expected settlement from Grace Chemical. After paying off his creditors and debtors, he is left with only around thirty thousand dollars, a mere fraction of his initial investment. The case fails to become the landmark in history that Schlichtmann had hoped for, and due to his significant investment, he is forced into bankruptcy and contemplates giving up both his career and his life.

Characterization:

Jan Schlichtmann is a complex character. He is a flamboyant individual who drives a Porsche and has high expectations for life. However, his extravagant lifestyle is at odds with his legal career. As he nears bankruptcy, with the bank on the verge of reclaiming his house and having already repossessed his vehicle, he takes on a case with the hope of winning a large sum of money for himself and making a name for himself in history. He invests himself fully in the case, spending over two million dollars. Despite having little left to give and nothing left to lose, after witnessing the human suffering at the heart of the case, he becomes deeply committed to fighting for the grieving citizens of Woburn.

Anne Anderson is a remarkable woman. When she learns of her son's leukemia diagnosis, she nearly loses hope. But instead of succumbing to despair, she takes matters into her own hands. She investigates other cases in the area, talking to the parents of other diagnosed children. Through her efforts, she discovers a connection between the number of cases and two large companies nearby. She hires a lawyer to handle the civil suit she is filing and remains involved in the investigation until the very end, despite the bittersweet outcome.

Recommendation:

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to young adults in high school. The theme of bittersweet justice that runs throughout the story serves as a powerful reminder that life is not always fair. Even when we give our all to something, we may not necessarily achieve the desired results. This book teaches young adults to accept setbacks with grace and to learn from their experiences in order to try again in the future. It is a thought-provoking and inspiring read that will resonate with readers of all ages.

An ex-lawyer once shared with me his profound disillusionment with the American litigation and court system. He emphasized how it seems structured in a way that almost guarantees the wealthier party will always come out on top.

The civil case concerning the residents of Woburn, a small town in Massachusetts, serves as a prime illustration of this phenomenon. Corporations, with their seemingly limitless financial resources, are able to outspend and simply wear down their opponents.

I found the book quite captivating as it not only offered valuable insights into the intricate procedure of a civil case but also managed to maintain an engaging and engrossing narrative throughout. It provided a rare peek behind the curtain of the legal world,揭示了the often unfair dynamics at play.

This story serves as a reminder of the need for a more equitable and just legal system that doesn't favor the rich and powerful at the expense of the ordinary citizens.

I ended up giving this book 2.50014 stars, rounding up to 3.

At the beginning, it showed promise. The story seemed to have an interesting premise that could potentially engage the reader. However, as I delved deeper into the book, it quickly became tedious. The plot dragged on, and I found myself losing interest.

As I continued reading, it became a challenge to determine whether I would finish it or die trying. I kept hoping that there would be a positive message hidden within the pages, something that would make the whole reading experience worthwhile. But alas, there wasn't.

In reality, the only reason I gave it 3 stars is that the previous book I read by the author, 'The Lost Painting', was so good. It had set a high standard, and this book simply couldn't live up to it. Consider yourself warned! If you're thinking of picking up this book, be prepared for a rather dull and unfulfilling reading experience.

A Civil Action by Jonathan Harr delves into the profound and harmful impacts that corrupt businesses can inflict on a community, encompassing both the environment and the lives of its inhabitants. It was during the 1970s that Anne Anderson first became aware of something amiss in the town of Woburn, Massachusetts. The alarmingly high incidence of leukemia among the children living there was a cause for great concern. Initially, many dismissed the idea that these leukemia cases could be traced back to a single source. However, after Anne hires lawyer Jan Schlichtmann to represent her and the other families of children with leukemia, it is uncovered that the likely culprit behind this leukemia cluster is the contamination of Woburn's well water with a dangerous chemical known as TCE. Schlichtmann and his team painstakingly trace the contamination back to two major corporations, W.R. Grace and Beatrice Foods. Eventually, the case against the two companies goes to trial, and after several intense months, a verdict is reached regarding their guilt or innocence.

Nowadays, when we look back on the Woburn case and similar ones, we are filled with disbelief. Given the overwhelming amount of evidence pointing to the guilt of these large companies, how could anyone have thought otherwise? Whether or not the court ruling met people's expectations, the very fact that the court case endured for such a long time speaks volumes about the extent to which businesses can become corrupt.

This novel, at times, can have a somewhat slow pace and be a bit confusing. The actual Woburn case doesn't commence until well into the book, and I found that there were moments when it was challenging for the novel to hold my attention. Nevertheless, there were also other times when the book was utterly unputdownable as I was eagerly anticipating what would happen next. A Civil Action is like a rollercoaster, constantly alternating between being boring and captivating.
I would recommend this book to those who have an interest in the environment, law, or reading in general. Even if you have no prior experience with the law, as I don't either, the processes of the trial are vividly described in this novel and are not overly complicated. Additionally, the environmental, scientific, and financial aspects are easily comprehensible for most readers of this novel. While reading this book can be tiresome at times, it is generally an enjoyable and highly informative read.

This is truly a really compelling read.

As I delved into it, I discovered a wealth of knowledge regarding civil law and class action lawsuits.

The details provided were both fascinating and enlightening. It offered a comprehensive overview of the legal concepts and procedures involved in these areas.

From understanding the different types of civil law cases to grasping the intricacies of class action lawsuits, this article has been an invaluable source of information.

It has not only deepened my understanding but also piqued my interest in further exploring the legal field.

I would highly recommend this read to anyone seeking to expand their knowledge of civil law and class action lawsuits.

It is a must-read for legal enthusiasts, students, and anyone with a general curiosity about the law.

The clear and concise writing style makes it accessible to a wide range of readers, regardless of their prior legal knowledge.

Overall, this article is a great resource that offers a unique perspective on an important topic.

Fame, fortune, and doing good – those were, in combination, goals worth striving for. [And Jan] Schlichtmann decided there were worthy cases he could devote himself to, cases he could win.

This book, "A Civil Action," is on a lot of “must read” lists for incoming law students. The other books on the lists can mostly be lumped into instructional or self-help. I’ve read a significant number of them; unfortunately, most are of little value. (The Legal Analyst by Ward Farnsworth is an exception; it’s worth reading!) However, "A Civil Action" doesn’t fit the typical mold of these lists.

I delved into it with no prior knowledge. My ignorance led me to make certain assumptions. Since the book had a rather uninteresting title, litigation is generally regarded as a dull topic, and its recommendation was almost everywhere, I assumed it must offer an engaging and incisive perspective on a very mundane subject.

I couldn't have been more mistaken. This book presents an extraordinary story in a rather lackluster (*) manner.

The story is indeed remarkable, in the sense that it is an outlier from the norm. While this particular story is exceptional, the occurrence of bad things in real life is not uncommon. But most victims don't have a Rev. Youngs wholeheartedly committed to their cause. They don't have neighbors who are willing to sacrifice their jobs by testifying against their own employers. And they aren't able to persuade the expert on the crucial flaw of their case to join their legal team. (**)

The book seems to overlook this exceptional nature and instead attributes it to Jan, personally. Jan is undoubtedly an intriguing individual with an idiosyncratic way of conducting business. But after reading 500 pages, I still couldn't tell you anything about Jan beyond his unrestrained ambition, self-centeredness, and an excessive lifestyle in every aspect.

When bad things occur (and I hope it's not too much of a spoiler to say that... yes, bad things happen), Jan focuses on himself. “He thought about his reputation and career, about the lawyers who said he was foolish to reject a multi-million dollar offer” [Not the Woburn case. But he does this more than once in the Woburn case].

Jan's goals don't seem to be in line with the victims' goals. The victims are reluctant to sue. They simply want to ensure that whatever killed their children doesn't happen again. Jan convinces these families that the only language these corporations understand is money, and it just so happens that by suing for damages, he'll receive a 28% cut (millions in legal fees, not included).

[After the last pre-trial settlement fails, Judge Skinner says to Jan]: “Mrs. Anderson [victim] is trumpeting in the papers [saying] she doesn’t care about money. But if she doesn’t care about money, I think this case can be settled.” Jan laughed politely. [Skinner, again:] “ha, ha” mocking Jan’s laugh… “well then somebody ought to tell Mrs. Anderson. Because she doesn’t think this about money.”

I feel that the main takeaway from this book is that bad things happen constantly, and the legal system often seems to say, “not my problem.” But the legal system is ostensibly the last resort we turn to when we can't resolve our problems on our own. If problems like the one in Woburn exist – and they can't be resolved through the legal system – then what?

However, after looking at the top reviews for this book, it appears that the actual takeaway is that we need more Jan Schlichtmanns. And if we just had more Jan Schlicthmanns and fewer bad apples (like Judge Walter Skinner), the legal system could address problems like Woburn.

Law schools are not so naïve. So, why are they recommending this book?

—-

(*) [Footnote 1]

I mentioned that this story was told in a dull fashion. But I didn't think a critique of Harr's writing would fit the single theme of the review. I believe the greatest weakness in Harr's writing is a tendency towards passive voice and conclusive writing. I don't know how to effectively demonstrate that, so instead, here are my favorite quotes from the book:

-\\t “The four men worked well together. They became a team, and they also became best friends.”

-\\t “Everything about discovery was contentious” (There are 4 sections of the book dedicated solely to discovery. This quote here is the opener of Chapter 8 of the fourth section on discovery).

-\\t (And here’s the entirety of the book’s sex scene) “Rikki came to the bed and lay down beside him. In the dark, she talked to him for what seemed like a long while. She stroked his arm, and then she made love to him.”

—-

(**) [Footnote 2]

An important aspect of torts (a civil action) is “but for causation.” That is, but for x, y won't happen. While but for causation has a technical, legal usage in tort law, I'm going to use it here in a non-legal/technical/broad sense.

The story depends on many critical events. Without these specific, numerous, and exceptional events taking place, there would be no story:

-\\t The state environmental inspector testing Wells G and H for TCE. But for this action, TCE would not have been discovered in the water supply.

-\\t Rev Young having multiple personal connections to the victims, devoting his life to the cause, and reaching out and getting the DC lawyers ($) involved. But for DC lawyer money, the case would have died before the complaint was filed.

-\\t Beatrice and Grace being Fortune 500 companies. But for the promise of at least a 7-figure settlement, no lawyer would have taken this case.

-\\t Al Love living across the street from Anderson [victim], and being willing to go against his employer, Grace, and being willing to endure extreme personal consequences to do the right thing.

-\\t Getting the preeminent statistic-and-evidence guy (Charlie Nesson) to join the team. Rikki knows him somehow and it's HER idea for Jan to meet Nesson.

-\\t Nesson having studied mathematics and being able to “break” Guswa’s accepted scientific methods. (Something Jan’s team lacks).