Why people recommend it
Call for the Dead by John le Carré is a classic espionage novel that introduces intelligence officer George Smiley as he investigates the apparent suicide of a foreign office employee. On an episode of The Book Review titled Chang-rae Lee on His New Novel: Its Kind of a Crazy Book, John Williams recommended John le Carrés early mystery novel, noting that he had read both it and another early title and really enjoyed them. In the same podcast episode, Joseph Kanon discussed the origins of the book, explaining that it became John le Carrés very first published novel, for which the author reportedly received a modest advance of one hundred pounds. These reflections on The Book Review offered listeners a fascinating look into the beginnings of a legendary spy fiction author's career. The hosts and guests celebrated the craftsmanship of le Carrés early writing, tracing how a modest publishing milestone blossomed into an iconic literary legacy. Through these discussions, the podcast highlighted the enduring appeal of George Smileys debut adventure, reminding audiences of the humble origins behind some of the twentieth centurys most celebrated espionage storytelling and the lasting pleasure found in revisiting classic spy thrillers.
Who recommended it
- John Williams Recommended
- Joseph Kanon Discussed
John Williams — 1 mention
“those are called call for the dead and a murder of quality and I really enjoyed them”
Joseph Kanon — 1 mention
“and it became call for the dead his first novel for which I think he got 100 pound”
Also mentioned in the same episodes
- The Spy Who Came in from the Cold
- Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy
- A murder of quality
- Binge
- Career of Evil
- Dear Child
Other mentions (1: passing, ad reads, own books)
“I actually read the early ones I read call for the dead a murder of quality and the spark came from the cold”