Spy Who Came in from the Cold, The
Le Carre, JohnOne of Le Carre's best-known spy novels. Let this be your first one. Stark drama. UK.
Comments from Groups
This book was enjoyed by our whole group, although some did not particularly like Le Carre's writing style - describing it as a bit cold and clinical. Many commented that this was the first 'spy novel' they had read, and that they enjoyed it more than they expected to. A nice change of pace. Lower Hutt 015 Greatly enjoyed by all - comments were made about how well the author evolved the drab, grey environment of the time. The way the spies were manipulated by their 'controllers' was felt to be tragic, as was the ending. Also the novel portrayed the tedium involved with spying. Mention was also made that it was almost like a historical novel, depicting the cold war. Most found it a compelling read. Auckland 166 Dated in style, but a good spy book. Probably his later books are better. Waikanae 002 Most of the group enjoyed this book - well written and has stood the test of time. Le Carre is still the best author for this genre. Renwick 001 Loved the book. We enjoyed the characters, and the visualisation of the village was amazing. Oamaru 005 Not everyone liked it, however we had a great discussion. The notes that go with the book are excellent. Richmond 008
Pages
240
240
Year
1963
1963
Reviews
21-04-2022
This is the book that started the author's career and set the standard for spy novels. He was the one that started the spy genre as such and his work has never been eclipsed. The storytelling is first class, a skill he honed with every new novel. In some sense these are now historic novels now since the demise of the USSR. If you have never read a spy novel start with this guy.
18-08-2021
This is not the kind of book any of us would normally read. We didn't realise how much we liked spy novels! Good discussion about how true it is, whether things like this happen today, and the ethics of treating people badly for the greater good.