The Spy Who Came in from the Cold

Ah, the Cold War. Has there ever been any other historical event that has given us more excellent films and stories? I mean we've got The Hunt for Red October, Rocky IV, every James Bond film, as well as this little gem from John Le Carre. The Spy Who Came in from the Cold is the story of Alec Leamas, a field agent with British Intelligence who is asked to do one last mission before he "comes in from the cold." This story tells about that last mission in the divided city of Berlin. There's really not much to say about the book beyond that. It's a fun read, and pretty engaging. Unlike the James Bond books (which I haven't read, but so I've heard) this book tends to be more psychological than action-packed. It addresses the moral conflict and ambiguity that exists within the minds of the agents who sacrificed their own moral compass for the sake of a greater good. The novel explores these questions elegantly and with pathos, and by the end you really care about the characters. This book is considered one of the best spy novels ever written, and I can see why. It's not an action thriller, but it has all the twists and turns of a good mystery, and will keep you engaged and guessing clear to the end.

Score: 8/10
Read this book if: You want a quick, fun read that has more psychological action than actual explosions-and-guns action, or if you like the Cold War.
Don't read this book if: You want explosions-and-guns action, or aren't in the mood for light reading.