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Smiley’s People
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Smiley’s People

novel by le Carré
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Quick Summary

Smiley's People is a 1980 novel by John le Carré, a renowned author of realistic spy novels. The book features George Smiley, le Carré's most famous character, a British secret agent known for his unobtrusive and unglamorous approach to espionage.12

In Smiley's People, Smiley is drawn out of semi-retirement to confront his longtime adversary, the Soviet master spy Karla. The novel is the culmination of a trilogy that also includes Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and The Honourable Schoolboy, detailing the complex and often morally ambiguous world of Cold War intelligence. Smiley's dedication to his professional duty, even when it conflicts with his personal honor, is a central theme.21

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  1. George Smiley
  2. John le Carré

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