Book review: Why Lawyers Should Eat Bananas

WHY LAWYERS SHOULD EAT BANANAS: Inspirational ideas for lawyers wanting more out of life

By Simon Tupman

Simon Tupman Presentations $34.95

Reviewed by Andrew Caisley


With a clever eye on the marketing value of arousing curiosity, Tupman boldly counsels his readers that the essential qualities of a banana should be synonymous with those of a lawyer.

It is a comparison that invites speculation, not all suitable for publication. Tupman's explanation, however - they should be cheap and good for you - is typical of his overall approach: entertaining, but fundamentally practical.

Although ostensibly targeted at the legal profession, Bananas provides positive food for thought about career and lifestyle management that is applicable to any professional. Drawing on his background as a practising lawyer and a marketing manager for a New Zealand law firm, Tupman offers many suggestions, including invigorating the work environment, enhancing team performance, freeing time and attracting new business.

He does this by listing 101 ideas. Some are not new and are commonsense, such as writing articles to help to establish credibility and expertise. Other ideas may appear to be completely out of left field.

For instance, he suggests bowls of pingpong balls in the reception area (a fun way to get client feedback). It's similar to Tupman's writing style, slightly zany, refreshing and always to the point.

The book contains interviews with nine members of the legal profession, ranging from an ex-lawyer turned television show host to Australia's first Aboriginal law graduate, now a barrister.

He asks them thorny questions, such as "are lawyers greedy?" The answers will provide insight to the new and not so new to the profession.

The appendix contains practical suggestions, such as an assessment list for those under a supervisor as well as a self-assessment questionnaire for supervisors. Does the author achieve his inspirational aim? Yes. Although some ideas are not fresh, they are practical. Other ideas are surprisingly simple with success written all over them.

* Andrew Caisley is a partner in the firm Kiely Thompson Caisley.