"Cheshire and Fifoot's Law of Contract" is a seminal textbook in the field of contract law, first published by Geoffrey Cheshire and Cecil Fifoot. The book has undergone several revisions and editions, with the most recent editions including contributions from Nicholas Seddon and M. P. Ellinghaus. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Authoritative Account: The book provides a clear and authoritative account of the principles of the law of contract, making it a trusted resource for both students and practitioners.
2. Thought-Provoking Analysis: It combines this foundational knowledge with thought-provoking analysis and insights, which helps readers understand complex contractual issues.
3. Illustrative Case Material: The use of illustrative case material is a hallmark of the text, making it popular among students and teachers of contract law.
4. Clarity and Navigation: Each topic is clearly signposted for ease of navigation, and the text contains numerous references to additional primary and secondary sources to deepen the reader's understanding.

Plot Summary

The book does not have a traditional narrative plot but rather a structured approach to explaining the principles and concepts of contract law. It covers a wide range of topics, including the formation of contracts, the interpretation of contracts, contractual obligations, and remedies for breach of contract. The text is organized in a way that allows readers to easily follow and understand the complex legal concepts.

Critical Reception

1. Academic and Professional Use: The book is invaluable to students reading courses in contract, the law of obligations, and common law. It is often used as a first point of reference for practitioners due to its clarity and comprehensive coverage.
2. Student and Teacher Popularity: The use of illustrative case material has made Cheshire & Fifoot popular with students and teachers of contract law, providing real-world examples to illustrate theoretical concepts.
3. Revisions and Updates: The book has been revised multiple times, with the latest editions incorporating new insights and updates to reflect changes in the law. This ensures that the text remains relevant and authoritative in the field.

Editions and Contributors

1. First Edition: The first edition was published by Geoffrey Cheshire and Cecil Fifoot.
2. Recent Editions: Later editions have included contributions from Nicholas Seddon and M. P. Ellinghaus, ensuring that the text remains current and comprehensive.

In summary, "Cheshire and Fifoot's Law of Contract" is a classic textbook that has been a cornerstone in the study and practice of contract law for over 50 years. Its clear and authoritative account, combined with thought-provoking analysis and illustrative case material, makes it an indispensable resource for both students and professionals in the field.