is this book as boring as the movie?

[Feliks]

You probably come from the action-movie era. In the 60s and 70s many movies were what audiences today might consider slow-moving. They emphasized acting; and this was because there was an abundance of incredible, wonderful actors who populated movie casts and the audiences in theaters were more adults than kids.

Admittedly the film wasn't that great--but not because it moved slow. This is an adaptation of a John LeCarre book, any film of a John LeCarre novel moves slow. He didn't write action thrillers.

Here's the answer to your question: yes the book moves slow, too. LeCarre writes about psychology and character. You wouldn't even bother to pick this title up if you want something fast-paced.

But if you are embarking on a full read of the Smiley series, it is the book to start with; and that series is one of the best ever written in its subject matter and its genre.

[Feliks]

You've been told a-rightly. Exactly correct.

Another ex-agency man, is this author: Charles McCarry

More discussion here:
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...-

[David]

I haven't seen the film, but I loved this book.

I thought it built a taut level of suspense which kept me engaged; I think I read it in two sessions. It was really engrossing.

If I already knew the plot, it may have been less suspenseful and less engrossing, but I'd say give it a go; it's so short! that if you read fast, you'll finish it in two days.

I *really* recommend his later book "The Spy Who Came in from the Cold". It's the real spy game, but concerned with Operations.

Graham Greene, prominent author and former agent, considered it the best spy novel he'd ever read.

[Brolie]

Yeah I agree with the others- and especially David with The Spy Who Came in From the Cold. That one was probably my favorite. Loved it.