Writer Nick Harkaway grew up hearing his dad read drafts of his George Smiley novels. He picks up le Carré's beloved spymaster character in the new novel, Karla's Choice. He spoke with Sam Briger about choosing his own pen name, channeling his dad's writing style, and his stint writing copy for a lingerie catalogue.

Subscribe to Fresh Air's weekly newsletter and get highlights from the show, gems from the archive, and staff recommendations.



Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NPR Privacy Policy