Questions About The Looking Glass War (George Smiley, #4)

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Answered Questions (7)

J I think Leiser was nervous, and couldn't think of any alternatives (like withdrawing until the sentry moved on). I don't think Leiser's training at al…moreI think Leiser was nervous, and couldn't think of any alternatives (like withdrawing until the sentry moved on). I don't think Leiser's training at all covered using sound judgment in various potential scenarios. It was all focused on technical skills - including guncraft when he wasn't even going to be allowed to take a firearm.(less)

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I've been going through the Le Carre Smiley series in order. I read Call for the Dead, A Murder of Quality and the fantastic The Spy Who Came in from the Cold. I'm really eager to get onto Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. I've heard that The Looking Glass War is a bit weak. Is it worth reading? If I skip it will I miss information necessary to understand Tinker, Tailor?

Warren It may have been eclipsed by The Spy Who Came In From The Cold, but I didn't find it inferior at all. Perhaps darker and more cynical, but never less …moreIt may have been eclipsed by The Spy Who Came In From The Cold, but I didn't find it inferior at all. Perhaps darker and more cynical, but never less than an exceptionally good read.(less)

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Can I read this book without having read a single other one in the Smiley serie?

Jesse Nardy I think so. I started the series with Tinker Tailor and am now reading the previous books. You’ll understand what is going on without the other books,…moreI think so. I started the series with Tinker Tailor and am now reading the previous books. You’ll understand what is going on without the other books, especially with this one because most of the cast of characters are new people. There is some background in the prior books that provides some context, but not so much you won’t understand the plot. (less)

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Explain the title?