By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

In "Listening to the Law: Reflections on the Court and Constitution," Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett endeavors to provide readers with an insider's perspective on the workings of the highest court in the United States. Published on September 9, 2025, this memoir-cum-treatise aims to demystify the judicial process and elucidate Barrett's originalist approach to constitutional interpretation.

Barrett's narrative is commendably lucid, distilling complex legal concepts into accessible prose. She offers a candid account of her journey from law clerk to the 103rd associate justice, emphasizing the importance of collegiality among justices. Her assertion that "the success of a multi-member court rides on the ability to disagree respectfully" underscores a commitment to civil discourse, though it contrasts with her noted rebuke of fellow Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson over criticisms of former President Trump's policies. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/amy-coney-barrett/listening-to-the-law/?utm_source=openai))

Central to the book is Barrett's explication of originalism—the belief that the Constitution should be interpreted based on the understanding of its framers. She articulates, "I'm not an originalist because I think that history yields easy answers or prevents bad judging. I'm an originalist because I think that it's the right way to think about law." This perspective is further illuminated through her analysis of landmark cases, including the contentious Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade. Barrett presents both majority and dissenting opinions, highlighting divergent views on the Court's role. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/amy-coney-barrett/listening-to-the-law/?utm_source=openai))

However, the memoir's strengths are undermined by notable omissions. Barrett largely sidesteps discussions on the Court's recent controversial decisions and the perception of its deference to the Trump administration. She also avoids addressing debates over judicial ethics and structural reforms, such as proposals for stricter financial disclosures and term limits. This reticence is particularly glaring given the current climate of political polarization and scrutiny of the judiciary. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/amy-coney-barrett/listening-to-the-law/?utm_source=openai))

Furthermore, while Barrett defends her vote to overturn Roe v. Wade by asserting that abortion rights lack deep roots in American legal tradition, she fails to engage with the broader societal implications of such a decision. Her emphasis on the Court's role in upholding democratic choices, rather than dictating policy, comes across as a convenient abdication of responsibility in the face of profound public impact. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-supreme-courts-barrett-defends-overturning-abortion-right-new-book-2025-09-02/?utm_source=openai))

In sum, "Listening to the Law" offers a clear exposition of Barrett's judicial philosophy and provides some insight into the Supreme Court's inner workings. However, its selective engagement with contentious issues and lack of introspection render it a superficial account that fails to grapple with the complexities of the Court's role in contemporary society.

Recommendation: Read with caution.

written on: 9/18/2025