John Grisham debuted his literary career in 1989, and while he is predominantly celebrated for his captivating legal thrillers, his repertoire extends beyond just suspenseful page-turners. Prior to becoming a full-time author, Grisham served as a lawyer and politician, experiences that profoundly influence his fiction, blending legal intricacies with compelling mysteries and thrilling narratives.
Across his prolific career, Grisham has penned over 50 books, encompassing diverse genres such as crime fiction, non-fiction, juvenile fiction, and short story collections. Many of his works have been successfully adapted into films and television series, further solidifying his impact on popular culture. The hallmark of the best John Grisham books lies in their ability to fuse thrilling plots with emotional depth and often, insightful commentary on societal issues. These are narratives that are not only gripping but also emotionally resonant and thought-provoking, addressing profound themes within the framework of enthralling stories.
20. Rogue Lawyer (2015)
The Main Character Is One Of Grisham’s Most Unique Lawyers
Given John Grisham’s extensive body of work centered around the legal profession, it’s understandable that some of his lawyer characters might seem somewhat similar. Often, they share comparable traits and personality types. However, Rogue Lawyer breaks this mold, distinguishing itself within Grisham’s collection of legal thrillers, thanks to its truly unique protagonist.
Sebastian Rudd, the central figure in Rogue Lawyer, even describes himself as “not a very good lawyer” when his unconventional methods are questioned. Operating from a customized van, Rudd eschews the perceived pretentiousness of traditional law offices. He deliberately takes on cases that others avoid, representing a diverse clientele ranging from corrupt law enforcement officials to suspected terrorists. Rudd is driven by a deep-seated belief in the principle that everyone, regardless of the accusations against them, deserves a fair defense.
This distinctive character is just the beginning of what makes the book compelling. The narrative further intensifies with a kidnapped police officer’s daughter, Rudd’s complex relationship with his ex-wife, and a stark portrayal of the more morally ambiguous aspects of the legal system, all contributing to a truly worthwhile read.
19. A Painted House (2001)
A Well-Crafted Coming-Of-Age Novel
While John Grisham is predominantly recognized for his expansive catalog of legal thrillers, this genre doesn’t define the entirety of his literary output. He has explored various fictional territories, including A Painted House, a more broadly themed narrative.
Set in the 1950s, A Painted House narrates the experiences of a young boy growing up on an Arkansas cotton farm, mirroring Grisham’s own childhood in the same state. The boy’s world expands rapidly as “hill people” and Mexican workers join the farm staff, introducing him to complex interpersonal dynamics previously unfamiliar to him.
Although A Painted House progresses at a gentler pace compared to Grisham’s typical thrillers, it remains a finely crafted coming-of-age story, centered around a very young protagonist—just seven years old at the story’s outset. For those intrigued by adaptations, it’s noteworthy that this novel was adapted into a film starring Logan Lerman a mere two years after its publication.
18. Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer (2010)
Grisham Takes On Juvenile Readers
Despite John Grisham’s fame for adult legal thrillers, he has successfully ventured into writing for younger audiences. His legal expertise has been instrumental in creating novels for a younger demographic. The Theodore Boone series, beginning with this book, is specifically tailored for readers aged 10-13.
Theodore Boone, a 13-year-old at the start of the series, has grown up immersed in the legal world, viewing himself as a budding lawyer capable of investigating and upholding justice. In this inaugural book, he gets a chance to engage with a real courtroom, not as a lawyer, but as a key witness in a high-profile murder trial.
The Theodore Boone series is particularly commendable for making complex legal terminology accessible to young readers, demystifying jargon that might otherwise be confusing. These books also effectively convey the significant impact even a single individual, even a child, can have within the larger framework of an investigation. This series stands out as a hidden gem among Grisham’s more mature novels.
17. The Racketeer (2012)
One Of Grisham’s Most Puzzling Novels
For long-time readers of John Grisham, especially those who have followed his work up to this point, a familiarity with his narrative style in mysteries is likely well-established. Understanding an author’s typical approach can sometimes make it easier for seasoned readers or fans to anticipate the twists and turns of a mystery.
The Racketeer, while fundamentally a legal thriller in line with Grisham’s signature style, also incorporates elements of a revenge thriller. The story centers on Malcolm Bannister, a former attorney who has fallen from grace. He is unjustly serving a 10-year prison sentence for a crime he did not commit. Bannister strikes a bargain with the FBI, offering to provide them with information on the murderer of a judge and his secretary in exchange for his freedom.
While this premise might initially sound like a typical Grisham mystery, it quickly diverges from the expected. The Racketeer is arguably the most intricate and puzzle-like of his novels, delivering a series of unexpected twists and turns that challenge the reader to piece together the truth and identify the real killer.
16. The Last Juror (2004)
A Series Of Small-Town Murders Speaks To A Larger Story
John Grisham frequently sets his novels in small towns and in Mississippi, likely influenced by his personal history in these settings. The Last Juror embodies both of these familiar elements.
Set in a small Mississippi town in the 1970s, the story begins with the conviction of a man for murder, who then vows revenge against those responsible for his imprisonment. Years later, upon his release, members of the jury from his trial begin to die. Given his family’s powerful local standing, the town is once again gripped by the same fear that permeated the atmosphere leading up to his initial trial.
Despite being published in 2004, The Last Juror resonates with the classic Grisham style, reminiscent of his earlier works. While the murder mysteries are central to the plot, they serve to illuminate a broader narrative about the dynamics of small towns and the enduring influence of established families within them. Many Grisham enthusiasts consider his 1990s novels as his peak, but The Last Juror is a notable example from his 2000s output that lives up to that high standard.
15. Camino Island (2017)
Grisham Goes Full Criminal Mystery
Camino Island marks the beginning of a series set on an island off the Florida coast, a location that combines a picturesque resort setting with a backdrop of criminal activity. This setting allows Grisham to effectively juxtapose beauty and crime, a technique he utilizes skillfully in other novels set in sunny Florida.
Camino Island, along with its three sequels, represents a shift in Grisham’s typical style. While still rooted in mystery, these books lean more towards straightforward crime mysteries rather than the legal thrillers that have characterized much of his earlier work.
The central mystery in Camino Island revolves around the theft of a rare F. Scott Fitzgerald manuscript, which ends up in the possession of a rare book dealer on Camino Island. A struggling writer is then recruited to infiltrate the book dealer’s circle to gather information about the stolen manuscript. The resulting mystery offers a lighter tone compared to many of Grisham’s other suspense novels, providing a refreshing change of pace.
14. The Whistler (2016)
A Lot Of Moving Parts Come Together Flawlessly
The Whistler intricately weaves together multiple narrative threads to form a complex and compelling mystery. The plot involves mafia-related money laundering, a Native American tribal casino serving as a front for criminal operations, a whistleblower exposing a corrupt judge, and a Florida investigator whose life is endangered as these elements converge. While the number of components might seem overwhelming, they coalesce effectively into a cohesive and satisfying narrative.
In The Whistler, a member of the Florida Board on Judicial Conduct receives a tip about a corrupt judge linked to the “Coastal Mafia.” Her investigation takes a perilous turn when dangerous individuals become aware of her work and target her. This Grisham mystery is notable for its brisk pace and ability to keep readers eagerly turning pages.
A television series adaptation of The Whistler was under development in 2021, though it has yet to be produced.
13. The Street Lawyer (1998)
A Legal Thriller With An Exploration Of Social Justice
A defining characteristic of John Grisham’s legal fiction is its grounding in real-world issues. While some of his more conspiracy-driven narratives might stretch credulity, his stories often draw from genuine problems within the American legal system. The Street Lawyer is a prime example of this.
The novel begins with a high-powered lawyer being taken hostage by a homeless man. Although the hostage situation ends tragically with the man’s death, the incident profoundly alters the lawyer’s perspective and career trajectory. He begins to recognize the systemic inequalities faced by those without stable housing and leaves his prestigious position to work for an advocate for the homeless.
While the premise might initially appear to be solely about the lawyer’s personal awakening, Grisham masterfully incorporates numerous twists and turns to maintain reader engagement. Each resolution is quickly followed by a new conflict or development, keeping the narrative dynamic and compelling.
12. The Innocent Man: Murder And Injustice In A Small Town (2006)
Grisham’s Non-Fiction Work Explores Wrongful Conviction
Several of John Grisham’s fictional works feature characters who are unjustly convicted of crimes. The narrative of individuals struggling to prove their innocence from behind bars is a recurring and compelling theme in his fiction, and it is also a stark reality for many people.
Grisham’s commitment to justice and fair trials, both as a lawyer and an author, is evident in his involvement with The Innocence Project and in his decision to write this non-fiction book. He has long been an advocate for the re-examination of evidence, even post-conviction, to ensure truth prevails.
This book marked Grisham’s first foray into non-fiction, although not his last. Initially, his authorial ambition was to entertain rather than inform, but the issue of wrongful imprisonment clearly resonated deeply with him, compelling him to take action. The Innocent Man tells the true story of Ronald ‘Ron’ Keith Williamson, who was wrongly convicted of rape and murder in the 1980s and later exonerated by DNA evidence after 11 years of imprisonment.
The book served as the inspiration for a six-part documentary series on Netflix, bringing attention to lesser-known true crime cases and the flaws within the criminal justice system.
11. The Judge’s List (2021)
A Rare Sequel Outshines The Original
The Judge’s List is a sequel to The Whistler, allowing Grisham to revisit characters and storylines, a relatively uncommon practice in his body of work. In this novel, readers are reunited with Lacy Stoltz in Florida as she again investigates judicial corruption, placing her in mortal danger.
The Judge’s List surpasses its predecessor, The Whistler, primarily due to the dynamic between Lacy and the antagonist, Judge Ross Bannick. Their relationship is characterized by a palpable cat-and-mouse tension, fueled by Bannick’s formidable power and clear connections to a series of unsolved murders.
Fans of Lacy Stoltz will be pleased to note that her narrative arc remains open-ended, suggesting the potential for Grisham to feature her in future mysteries.
10. The Guardians (2019)
The Truth Has To Be Uncovered Very Carefully Here
The Guardians further exemplifies Grisham’s engagement with issues of wrongful conviction, drawing from his real-world involvement with organizations like The Innocence Project. He skillfully uses his insights to craft a compelling narrative around these themes.
The story begins with the unsolved murder of a young lawyer in his office. Despite the case going cold, one of his clients, a young Black man, is convicted of the murder and spends over two decades in prison, steadfastly maintaining his innocence. It is through seeking help from Guardian Ministries that he finally finds advocates who believe in his case. However, the situation escalates as the lawyer and minister working on his appeal begins to uncover what appears to be a deep-seated conspiracy.
The Guardians is rich in its detailed exploration of the arduous and often seemingly insurmountable challenges of exonerating an innocent person from prison. Each step of the investigation reveals more of the truth, but also uncovers greater danger and potential obstacles for the investigating lawyer. It serves as a powerful fictional illustration of the potential for systemic failures within the legal system and who benefits when justice is miscarried.
9. The Testament (1999)
A Lawyer Goes On An Adventure In The Amazon
While many of John Grisham’s legal thrillers unfold in courtrooms and revolve around criminal cases, The Testament takes a distinctly different direction. The narrative is initiated by the will of a wealthy man who, instead of bequeathing his fortune to his immediate family, leaves everything to an illegitimate daughter previously unknown to them, who is working as a missionary in the Amazon River region of South America. A lawyer, experiencing a downturn in his fortunes, is tasked with locating her.
The Testament is an anomaly among Grisham’s legal stories. While it retains elements of intelligent lawyers, narratives of corruption, and a thrilling plot, it also ventures into the realm of adventure. Readers are taken on a journey alongside the lawyer as he encounters challenges that are more physical and survival-oriented than the legal battles he is accustomed to.
8. The Partner (1997)
A Morally Gray Protagonist Keeps Things Interesting
John Grisham’s narratives are typically told from the perspectives of idealists or those whose beliefs about the law are undergoing transformation. The Partner diverges from this pattern, presenting a protagonist who operates in a morally ambiguous zone, decidedly outside the realm of clear-cut heroes.
The central character, Patrick Lanigan, is unequivocally a criminal. He embezzles a substantial sum of money from his law firm, orchestrates his own supposed death, finds love, and lives in freedom for several years in Brazil before being tracked down by private investigators. Upon his capture, he faces a trial that could result in a lengthy prison sentence.
The story’s strength lies in its ability to engage the reader’s empathy for Patrick, despite his criminal actions. Readers witness his genuine affection for his new partner and his yearning for freedom to build a life with her. Patrick remains a compelling character, even while acknowledging his wrongdoing, making his story’s progression both intriguing and entertaining.
7. The Chamber (1994)
Hate Crimes Intertwine With Family History
Given the Southern United States as a frequent setting in John Grisham’s novels, crimes rooted in hatred and racism are recurring themes. These narratives often explore the intricate ways lawyers navigate such circumstances, and The Chamber delves into these themes with a personal twist.
In The Chamber, the lawyer is the grandson of the man he is striving to save from execution in the gas chamber. His grandfather is a former Ku Klux Klan member convicted of a 1967 bombing that killed two Jewish children. As the lawyer investigates the case, he is also compelled to confront his own family’s dark history.
While parts of The Chamber can be unsettling, the novel is profoundly thought-provoking. It pointedly illustrates that individuals who commit acts of hate are not inherently born that way, prompting readers to consider the complexities of prejudice and its origins.
6. The Runaway Jury (1996)
Everyone Wants To Manipulate Someone Else
The central theme of The Runaway Jury is manipulation. Virtually every character in the novel harbors a secret agenda and seeks to manipulate others for their own purposes. This dynamic creates a captivating narrative where the reader observes a complex game of interpersonal strategy.
The Runaway Jury centers around the jury selection and proceedings of a major trial against a large tobacco company. One juror is secretly working to control the trial’s outcome with the assistance of his girlfriend. As the story unfolds, the lines of manipulation become increasingly blurred, and the question of who is truly controlling whom becomes a central intrigue. Both the defense and plaintiff teams are prepared to employ any means necessary—legal or otherwise—to secure victory. The escalating lengths to which they are willing to go, coupled with unexpected twists, are what make this novel so thoroughly engaging.
The Runaway Jury was adapted into a successful movie starring John Cusack.
5. The Rainmaker (1995)
A Legal Battle Between David And Goliath
The Rainmaker is often regarded as one of John Grisham’s most emotionally impactful books, distinguishing itself from his more straightforward legal thrillers. It addresses critical issues within the medical insurance industry alongside its legal drama framework.
The story follows a recent law school graduate struggling to find employment. He takes on a pro bono case representing a young leukemia patient whose bone marrow transplant claim has been denied by a major insurance company. As the legal proceedings unfold, the young lawyer confronts the immense power of the insurance corporation, exposing the industry’s potential to prioritize profit over human life.
The Rainmaker delivers a pointed critique of the medical insurance industry and is known for its emotional depth. While previously adapted into a film by Francis Ford Coppola starring Matt Damon, it is currently being developed into a television series, indicating its enduring appeal and relevance.
4. A Time To Kill (1989)
A Case Divides A Town In The Deep South
A Time To Kill holds the distinction of being John Grisham’s debut novel. Since its publication, Grisham has consistently released at least one book almost annually, with the majority achieving bestseller status.
Set in the Deep South, the novel explores a racially charged crime that deeply divides a small town. A Black man is on trial for murdering two white men who brutally assaulted his 10-year-old daughter. The lawyer defending him faces intense pressure from all sides of the community as he seeks to uncover the truth and ensure his client receives a fair trial amidst widespread prejudice and tension.
While some of Grisham’s fans may consider his first novel his best, several of his subsequent works have arguably surpassed it. A Time To Kill established a high benchmark for Grisham’s future novels, a standard he has continued to exceed.
3. The Client (1993)
A Child Seeks Out Protection From A Lawyer
The Client is one of John Grisham’s most memorable and critically acclaimed books because of its seamless integration of diverse legal thriller elements. The novel effectively blends a narrative of a child seeking protection within the legal system, a lawyer whose ambition overshadows his ethical compass, mafia violence aimed at protecting criminal enterprises, and corporate malfeasance involving environmental negligence.
These components converge when an 11-year-old boy seeks legal assistance after witnessing a man’s suicide attempt. The man, a lawyer, reveals to the boy his knowledge of the local mafia’s operations, making both the boy and his younger brother targets for dangerous criminals and investigators.
The Client is a masterclass in weaving together multiple narrative threads into a cohesive and compelling whole without overwhelming the reader.
The Client has been adapted into both a successful movie and a television series, testament to its enduring popularity and narrative strength.
2. The Pelican Brief (1992)
A Law Student Accidentally Uncovers A Conspiracy
Unlike many of Grisham’s legal thrillers that center on established lawyers, The Pelican Brief features a protagonist who is still a law student. This fresh perspective adds a unique dimension to the typical legal thriller narrative.
Darby Shaw, a law student, drafts a speculative legal brief for a class assignment, theorizing about the motives behind the assassinations of two Supreme Court justices. Her analysis proves unexpectedly accurate, inadvertently exposing a far-reaching conspiracy. Her document, dubbed the “Pelican Brief,” sets in motion a chain of events where she must seek help and protection as she becomes a target.
Upon its release in the 1990s, both the book and its subsequent movie adaptation were sometimes dismissed as far-fetched. However, the conspiracy-driven plotlines presented in The Pelican Brief have become increasingly prevalent in contemporary thriller novels and even mainstream action movies. In this sense, Grisham was ahead of his time in anticipating the rise of conspiracy narratives in popular culture.
The Pelican Brief was adapted into a major motion picture starring Julia Roberts, a role that is still considered one of Roberts’ best movies, especially early in her career.
1. The Firm (1991)
A Lawyer’s New Job Is Too Good To Be True
The Firm was only John Grisham’s second published novel, yet it frequently tops lists as his best work, despite his extensive writing career spanning over three decades since. While Grisham has consistently demonstrated a talent for making various legal and thriller tropes work effectively, The Firm was released at a time when audiences were less familiar with his narrative patterns, making its twists and turns particularly impactful. It also masterfully combines elements that are hallmarks of his best novels: emotional depth, a significant conspiracy, and a compelling central mystery.
The Firm marks the point where Grisham perfectly balanced thriller and legal fiction elements, a blend that would become his signature style.
The novel centers on a young, ambitious lawyer who accepts a position at a prestigious law firm offering seemingly unattainable benefits and perks. However, this dream job quickly reveals its sinister underbelly as he uncovers evidence of the firm’s involvement in extensive criminal activities, including money laundering and murder. The Firm is where Grisham first achieved his signature balance between thrilling suspense and intricate legal drama, setting the stage for his future success.
The Firm was adapted into a highly successful movie starring Tom Cruise and is widely regarded as one of the best John Grisham adaptations. While many of his books have been brought to the screen, The Firm remains arguably the most outstanding, solidifying its place as the best John Grisham novel.
