The Constant Gardener
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The Constant Gardener
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The Constant Gardener
The Constant Gardener by John le Carré is a masterfully crafted tale of love, loss, and the quest for justice, set against a backdrop of political intrigue and corporate corruption. This gripping narrative begins with the brutal murder of Tessa Quayle, a passionate and determined humanitarian, on the remote shores of Lake Turkana in Northern Kenya. The enigmatic circumstances surrounding her death and the mysterious disappearance of her supposed African lover, a doctor affiliated with an aid organisation, spark a relentless pursuit for truth.
Justin Quayle, Tessa’s husband, a mild-mannered career diplomat and an ardent amateur gardener at the British High Commission in Nairobi, embarks on a heart-wrenching journey to unveil the murky depths behind Tessa’s untimely demise. His mission propels him from the corridors of the Foreign Office in London, through the intricate web of international conspiracies spread across Europe and Canada, and back to the dangerous landscapes of Africa, including the volatile region of South Sudan.
Throughout his odyssey, Justin encounters a spectrum of human emotions and experiences: the terror and violence inherent in his quest, the unexpected moments of laughter and camaraderie, and the dark undercurrents of conspiracy and deception. In the process, he uncovers not only the shocking truths behind Tessa’s murder but also profound revelations about the woman he realised he had barely begun to know and love.
The Constant Gardener is more than a tale of individual vengeance; it is a poignant exploration of love’s enduring power and a scathing critique of the exploitation perpetuated by powerful pharmaceutical conglomerates. This modern classic, adapted into an award-winning film in 2005 featuring Ralph Fiennes and Rachel Weisz, resonates with readers and viewers alike for its intricate plot, well-drawn characters, and the moral quandaries it presents.
Written with John le Carré's characteristic precision and penetrating insight, The Constant Gardener exposes the motivations that drive individuals and organisations, delving into global issues that remain strikingly relevant. Through Justin's transformative journey, le Carré invites readers to reflect on the ramifications of unchecked corporate power and the human cost of corruption.
Series: Penguin Modern Classics
View allBook Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The Constant Gardener by John le Carré has been praised for its intricate plot, strong character development, and thought-provoking themes. Reviewers commend the book for its exploration of pharmaceutical industry corruption, its gripping storytelling, and the emotional depth achieved through the protagonist's journey. Some critics note that the narrative may require patience, but overall it is considered a compelling and insightful read.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780241322307
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 27 September 2018
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Penguin Classics
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 24.0mm
Width: 129.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 383g
Pages: 560
About the Author
John le Carre was born in 1931. For six decades, he wrote novels that came to define our age. The son of a confidence trickster, he spent his childhood between boarding school and the London underworld. At sixteen he found refuge at the University of Bern, then later at Oxford. A spell of teaching at Eton led him to a short career in British Intelligence (MI5 & 6). He published his debut novel, Call for the Dead, in 1961 while still a secret servant. His third novel, The Spy Who Came in from the Cold, secured him a worldwide reputation, which was consolidated by the acclaim for his trilogy, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, The Honourable Schoolboy and Smiley's People. At the end of the Cold War, le Carre widened his scope to explore an international landscape including the arms trade and the War on Terror. His memoir, The Pigeon Tunnel, was published in 2016 and the last George Smiley novel, A Legacy of Spies, appeared in 2017. He died on 12 December 2020. His posthumous novel, Silverview, was published in 2021.
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