George Smiley
About the Series
Novels by John le Carre in which the character George Smiley appears. Note that, with the exception of The Karla Trilogy, these are standalone works, and Smiley is often only a supporting character.
Series Details
- Author:John Le Carré
- Started:1961
- Books:5
- Status:Ongoing
Genres
Themes
No themes available
Books in Order
Call for the Dead
1961A Murder of Quality
1962The Spy Who Came In from the Cold
1963The Looking Glass War
1965A Legacy of Spies
2017Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the George Smiley book series by John le Carré?
The George Smiley series primarily features the character George Smiley, a complex British intelligence officer. The novels delve into espionage, moral ambiguity, and the intricacies of spy craft during the Cold War era. While Smiley is often a central character, he also serves as a supporting figure in several standalone works.
In what order should I read the George Smiley books?
While many of the novels can be read as standalone stories, the recommended order to experience George Smiley’s character development and the overarching narrative is: 1. Call for the Dead 2. A Murder of Quality 3. The Spy Who Came in from the Cold 4. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy 5. The Honourable Schoolboy 6. Smiley's People 7. A Legacy of Spies
Is George Smiley a recurring character throughout all the books in the series?
No, George Smiley is featured prominently in several novels, particularly in those from the Karla Trilogy (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, The Honourable Schoolboy, and Smiley's People), but he also appears as a supporting character in standalone novels. The character’s depth and complexity unfold over the suite of works, but each book can be appreciated on its own.
What are the main themes explored in the George Smiley novels?
The George Smiley novels grapple with themes of loyalty, betrayal, moral ambiguity, and the psychological toll of espionage. They often reflect on the grey areas of politics and personal ethics, offering a critical examination of the intelligence community during the Cold War.
Are the George Smiley books suitable for readers interested in fantasy or adventure genres?
While the George Smiley series contains elements of suspense and intrigue characteristic of the spy thriller genre, it isn't classified as fantasy or traditional adventure fiction. Readers can expect a more grounded and realistic portrayal of espionage rather than fantastical elements.
Can you recommend a good starting point if I’m new to John le Carré and the Smiley series?
A great starting point is "Call for the Dead," as it introduces George Smiley and sets the tone for the intricacies of his character and the world of espionage. Alternatively, "The Spy Who Came in from the Cold" is another standalone novel that is highly regarded and serves as an excellent introduction to le Carré’s writing style and themes.
Is there a common setting for the George Smiley books?
While there isn’t a singular setting for all the novels, many take place during the Cold War in various locations, including England and Eastern Europe. The backdrop of espionage provides a rich environment for exploring the intricacies of intelligence operations, relationships, and the ethical dilemmas faced by spies.
You Might Also Enjoy
1Night Stand
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
200 Harley Street
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
24 Declassified
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
3 Babies For 3 Brothers
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
A Blossom Valley Mystery
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
A Cotten Stone Mystery
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
A Dance of Dragons
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
A Delilah Dickinson Literary Tour Mystery
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
A Galaxy Unknown
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
A Goldy Bear Culinary Mystery
• Similar genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction