"The Contract of Employment" by Mark Irving is a seminal work in the field of labor law, particularly in the context of Australian employment law. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Comprehensive Treatment: The book offers a systematic and intellectually rigorous treatment of the contract of employment, making it an essential resource for labor law practitioners in Australia.
2. Historical Context: The book provides a brief historical overview of the contract of employment, highlighting its evolution and adaptability to socio-economic forces.
3. Regulation of Employment Relationships: It explores how general principles of contract can be applied to regulate employment relationships, ensuring fairness while maintaining economic efficiency.
4. Definition and Distinguishing Concepts: The book attempts to give meaning to the concepts of "employee" and "independent contractor," despite the incoherence and difficulties associated with traditional common-law tests.

Plot Summary

The book does not have a narrative plot but rather a structured analysis of the contract of employment. It delves into the historical development of employment contracts, their regulatory frameworks, and how they adapt to changing socio-economic circumstances. The focus is on providing a comprehensive understanding of the legal principles governing employment contracts.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews are not readily available due to content protection issues, the book is widely regarded as a valuable addition to any labor law practitioner's collection. It is considered essential for Australian lawyers due to its comprehensive and systematic treatment of the subject matter.

Editions

The book has been published in at least two editions:

• 1st Edition: This edition marked a significant contribution to employment law scholarship, providing a foundational analysis of the contract of employment.
• 2nd Edition: The second edition continues to offer a comprehensive treatment, updated to reflect further developments in Australian employment law.

Availability

The book is available in hardcover format with an ISBN-13 of 9780409351088. It can be found on various online platforms, including BookScouter, which helps compare prices from multiple bookstores and buyback vendors. However, due to website maintenance issues, some sources may be temporarily unavailable.