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John Le Carré In His Own Words

John Le Carré In His Own Words

John le Carré is a bestselling author whose books include and Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. On this recording we hear - in his own words - about being brought up by his grandparents and feeling deserted by his mother and father. He talks about being creative as a means of escapism, by telling stories about his absent parents; as well as hating public school where he suffered severe beatings. We also hear about when he worked in the army as an interrogator and his experience working in British intelligence. He discusses becoming a writer, creating Smiley, working with Alec Guinness and why he hides behind two names. In addition, we learn what he thinks of awards - and critics. Due to the age and nature of this archive material, the sound quality may vary.

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About the Author

John le Carré

John le Carré was born in 1931 and attended the universities of Bern and Oxford. He taught at Eton before serving in British Intelligence during the Cold War. For more than fifty years he has lived by his pen. He divides his time between London and Cornwall.

John le Carré

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Features

Your first look at the TV adaptation of The Little Drummer Girl

John le Carré’s suspense-filled drama The Little Drummer Girl hits TV screens later this year. Here's your first look at the production that includes industry heavyweights Alexander Skarsgård and Michael Shannon.
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Extracts

The Pigeon Tunnel by John le Carre

In this extract from The Pigeon Tunnel, John le Carré describes the accusations of disloyalty he faced from former Secret Service colleagues - and how Alec Guinness used them in his portrayal of George Smiley
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Extracts

The Night Manager

Hide away in Cairo with this spy thriller masterpiece

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