From the first woman to sit on the United States Supreme Court comes this fascinating book about the history and evolution of the highest court in the land. Out of Order sheds light on the centuries of change and upheaval that transformed the Supreme Court from its uncertain beginnings into the remarkable institution that thrives and endures today. Justice O'Connor weaves together stories and lessons from the history of the Court, charting turning points and pivotal moments that have helped define our nation's progress, and provides a rare glimpse into the Supreme Court's inner workings: how cases are chosen for hearing; the personal relationships that exist among the Justices; and the customs and traditions, both public and private, that bind one generation of jurists to the next.--From publisher description.

Looming large : historic intersections of the president and the Supreme Court -- The call to serve : judicial appointments -- A house is not a home : the journey to One First Street -- Humble beginnings : the first decade of the United States Supreme Court -- Itinerant justice : riding circuit -- The Supreme Court's changing jurisdiction -- Golden tongues : oral advocacy before the court -- Customs and traditions of the court -- Some laughs on the bench -- Larger-than- life justices -- Gone but not forgotten : judicial retirement -- Supreme Court "firsts".