Call for the Dead

I've always wanted to read John le Carre's George Smiley books, but starting at ‘Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy', I failed to get into the story and given up. Actually starting at the first appearance of Smiley (and le Carre's first book), has made me realize that the background is necessary to (hopefully!) appreciate the later books. I absolutely loved this, and question why this book isn't more well known, as it should be; a rough diamond waiting to discovered by a wider audience. My advice? Don't start with the Karla books, start with this little gem.