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."
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.
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“In the world of spies and secrets, the most important truth is often the illusion we create.”
The Honourable Schoolboy
By John le Carré
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
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.
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