The Honourable Schoolboy

In 'The Honourable Schoolboy,' John le Carré weaves a complex tale of espionage set against the backdrop of a changing world. Following the fallout of a botched intelligence operation, the novel centers on the enigmatic figure of Jerry Westerby, a journalist turned spy. As he navigates the murky waters of Cold War politics, Westerby is compelled to confront his own moral ambiguities. With a rich cast of characters and intricate plotting, the story reveals the high stakes of betrayal and loyalty in the world of espionage. Will Westerby find redemption, or will he become another casualty in the shadowy game of intelligence?

By John le Carré

Published: 2011

"In the world of spies and secrets, the most important truth is often the illusion we create."

The Honourable SchoolboyBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

In the second part of John le Carré's Karla Trilogy, the battle of wits between spymaster George Smiley and his Russian adversary takes on an even more dangerous dimension. As the fall of Saigon looms, master spy George Smiley must outmaneuver his Soviet counterpart on a battlefield that neither can afford to lose. The mole has been eliminated, but the damage wrought has brought the British Secret Service to its knees. Given the charge of the gravely compromised Circus, George Smiley embarks on a campaign to uncover what Moscow Centre most wants to hide. When the trail goes cold at a Hong Kong gold seam, Smiley dispatches Gerald Westerby to shake the money tree. A part-time operative with cover as a philandering journalist, Westerby insinuates himself into a war-torn world where allegiances—and lives—are bought and sold. Brilliantly plotted and morally complex, The Honourable Schoolboy is the second installment of John le Carré's renowned Karla triology and a riveting portrayal of postcolonial espionage. With an introduction by the author.

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from The Honourable Schoolboy

About the Author

J

John le Carré

John le Carré, born David John Moore Cornwell (1931–2020), was a British author renowned for his espionage novels that delved into the moral complexities of intelligence and the intricacies of human nature. His notable works include "The Spy Who Came in from the Cold," "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy," and "The Constant Gardener," which have not only captivated readers but have also been adapted into acclaimed films and television series. Le Carré's writing style is characterized by its rich character development, intricate plots, and profound commentary on the political landscape of the Cold War and beyond. His ability to blend suspense with poignant insights about humanity has solidified his legacy as one of the foremost writers of spy fiction.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
John le Carré
Published
June 2011
Publisher
National Geographic Books
ISBN
0143119737
Language
English
Pages
N/A
Genres
LiteratureFictionMystery and Thriller

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

The Left Hand of DarknessBook binding

The Left Hand of Darkness

Ursula K. Le Guin

The Beginning of InfinityBook binding

The Beginning of Infinity

David Deutsch

The Botany of DesireBook binding

The Botany of Desire

Michael Pollan

PrideBook binding

Pride

Jessica Tracy

Built to SellBook binding

Built to Sell

John Warrillow

ExhalationBook binding

Exhalation

Ted Chiang

How it All Blew UpBook binding

How it All Blew Up

Arvin Ahmadi

The Secret HistoryBook binding

The Secret History

Donna Tartt

American TabloidBook binding

American Tabloid

James Ellroy

The Woman in WhiteBook binding

The Woman in White

Wilkie Collins

The Female BrainBook binding

The Female Brain

Louann Brizendine, MD

The Passion TrapBook binding

The Passion Trap

Dean C. Delis, Cassandra Phillips

The Freaks Shall Inherit the EarthBook binding

The Freaks Shall Inherit the Earth

Chris Brogan

Genius FoodsBook binding

Genius Foods

Max Lugavere, Paul Grewal, M.D.

Still livesBook binding

Still lives

Maria Hummel

Camino IslandBook binding

Camino Island

John Grisham

The Uninhabitable EarthBook binding

The Uninhabitable Earth

David Wallace-Wells

Spiritually Incorrect EnlightenmentBook binding

Spiritually Incorrect Enlightenment

Jed McKenna

A Different Way to WinBook binding

A Different Way to Win

Jim Rooney

The Long WayBook binding

The Long Way

Bernard Moitessier

The Theory of Investment ValueBook binding

The Theory of Investment Value

John Burr Williams

OdesBook binding

Odes

Sharon Olds

One, Two, Three-- InfinityBook binding

One, Two, Three-- Infinity

George Gamow

On Having No HeadBook binding

On Having No Head

Douglas Edison Harding

Spies of the BalkansBook binding

Spies of the Balkans

Alan Furst

LibraBook binding

Libra

Don DeLillo

Garden Cities of To-MorrowBook binding

Garden Cities of To-Morrow

Ebenezer Howard

On Deaf EarsBook binding

On Deaf Ears

George C. Edwards

Alas, BabylonBook binding

Alas, Babylon

Pat Frank

The Vagina MonologuesBook binding

The Vagina Monologues

Eve Ensler

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Aubrey Plaza's Book Recommendations

Aubrey Plaza's Book Recommendations

Aubrey Plaza is an acclaimed American actress, comedian, and producer known for her deadpan delivery and versatile performances across film and television. Although primarily recognized for her roles in productions like "Parks and Recreation" and "Legion," Plaza has also made significant contributions to literature. She co-authored the best-selling children's book "The Legend of the Christmas Witch" with Dan Murphy, blending her unique storytelling style with festive folklore. The book showcases her ability to captivate young readers and expand her creative talents beyond the screen. Plaza continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her innovative and multifaceted approach.

View Collection
Alain de Botton's Book Recommendations

Alain de Botton's Book Recommendations

Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, author, and founder of The School of Life, an organization dedicated to teaching emotional intelligence and life skills. De Botton’s books, such as The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life, blend philosophy with everyday life, offering practical wisdom on love, work, and happiness. His work has popularized philosophy, making it accessible to a wider audience. De Botton is also a public speaker and essayist, frequently exploring topics related to human fulfillment and personal growth. His unique approach to philosophy has made him a respected voice in contemporary culture.

View Collection
Blake Lively's Book Recommendations

Blake Lively's Book Recommendations

Blake Lively is an accomplished American actress best known for her role as Serena van der Woodsen in the popular television series "Gossip Girl" (2007-2012). While not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, Lively has significantly impacted the entertainment industry with her versatile acting skills in films such as "The Age of Adaline" (2015) and "A Simple Favor" (2018). She has also been an advocate for various social causes, utilizing her platform to raise awareness about child exploitation and the importance of family dynamics. Lively's influence extends beyond acting, as she has ventured into entrepreneurship with her lifestyle brand, Preserve. Her dedication to both her craft and philanthropic efforts has made her a prominent figure in modern pop culture.

View Collection
Andrew Lokenauth's Book Recommendations

Andrew Lokenauth's Book Recommendations

Andrew Lokenauth is a distinguished author and financial expert known for his insightful contributions to personal finance and investment literature. With a career spanning over a decade, he has written extensively on topics such as wealth management, financial planning, and market analysis. Lokenauth's works are celebrated for their clarity and practical advice, making complex financial concepts accessible to a broad audience. He has been featured in numerous financial publications and has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. Beyond his writing, Lokenauth is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at various seminars and workshops.

View Collection
Ben Shapiro's Book Recommendations

Ben Shapiro's Book Recommendations

Ben Shapiro is an American conservative political commentator, author, and lawyer, known for his sharp analytical skills and outspoken views. He graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 and Harvard Law School at 23, demonstrating his early intellectual prowess. Shapiro is the author of several best-selling books including "Bullies: How the Left's Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences Americans" and "The Right Side of History: How Reason and Moral Purpose Made the West Great." He is the co-founder and editor emeritus of The Daily Wire, a popular conservative news and opinion website. Through his writing and media presence, Shapiro has significantly influenced contemporary political discourse in the United States.

View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.

View Collection
Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations

Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations

Anderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.

View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection
James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.

View Collection
Guillermo del Toro's Book Recommendations

Guillermo del Toro's Book Recommendations

Guillermo del Toro is a Mexican filmmaker, author, and producer known for his dark fantasy and horror films, including Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water. Del Toro’s films often blend elements of fairy tales with gothic horror, exploring themes of humanity and monstrosity. He won the Academy Award for Best Director for The Shape of Water in 2018. Del Toro is also a passionate advocate for the preservation of film history and a mentor to emerging filmmakers. His unique visual style and storytelling have made him one of the most respected directors in modern cinema.

View Collection
Bozoma Saint John's Book Recommendations

Bozoma Saint John's Book Recommendations

Bozoma Saint John is a renowned business executive and marketing guru, celebrated for her transformative impact on major companies such as Uber, Apple Music, and Netflix. Though primarily known for her corporate achievements, Saint John captured her experiences and insights in her memoir, "The Urgent Life," which offers an intimate look into overcoming personal and professional challenges. Her dynamic storytelling and candid approach have inspired many, making her a significant voice in contemporary literature. Beyond her memoir, she has been a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Her work continues to influence both the business and literary worlds, blending leadership lessons with deeply personal narratives.

View Collection
Ben Affleck's Book Recommendations

Ben Affleck's Book Recommendations

Ben Affleck is an acclaimed American actor, director, and screenwriter, noted for his significant contributions to film and literature. He achieved early acclaim with his co-writing and starring role in "Good Will Hunting" (1997), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay alongside Matt Damon. Affleck further showcased his directorial prowess with the critically acclaimed film "Argo" (2012), which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. His work often explores complex characters and social issues, making a substantial impact on contemporary storytelling. Additionally, Affleck has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support numerous charitable causes.

View Collection
Emily Blunt's Book Recommendations

Emily Blunt's Book Recommendations

Emily Blunt is an acclaimed British actress known for her versatility and powerful performances in film and television. Though not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, her portrayal of literary characters in film adaptations, such as "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins, has brought literary works to a broader audience. Her role in this film was highly praised and showcased her ability to bring depth to complex characters. Blunt has received numerous awards, including a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award, solidifying her status in the entertainment industry. Her contributions extend beyond acting, as she continues to inspire through her diverse roles and commitment to her craft.

View Collection
Gretchen Rubin's Book Recommendations

Gretchen Rubin's Book Recommendations

Gretchen Rubin is a bestselling author and happiness expert, best known for her books The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. She explores the science of habits, happiness, and human behavior, helping readers improve their everyday lives. Gretchen’s popular podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to cultivate a more joyful and meaningful life. Her work emphasizes small, daily changes that can lead to long-term well-being. She continues to be a sought-after speaker on topics of happiness and habit formation.

View Collection

In the world of spies and secrets, the most important truth is often the illusion we create.

The Honourable Schoolboy

By John le Carré

Frequently Asked Questions