News by Levels · Level 2 · Student worksheet

The Taper Man Takes Smiley to America

In this lesson: Connect family authorship with distinct publication timelines.

Name: __________________________ Date: __________________

Read the story

Nick Harkaway continues John le Carré's fictional world in The Taper Man. Harkaway, the author's son, sends George Smiley to America in 1965.

The novel was published in Britain this week. Penguin Random House lists the US hardcover for November 17.

Readers should distinguish the historical setting from the modern release dates. The spy mission belongs to fiction.

Source: Penguin and Penguin Random House, 2026-11-05. https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/475384/the-taper-man-by-harkaway-nick/9781405986342

Read and practise

1. How is Harkaway related to le Carré?

   1. He is the author’s son
   2. He is the author’s brother
   3. He is the author’s publisher

2. Which publication statement is supported?

   1. Both countries must release the book together
   2. Britain has published it; the US hardcover is listed for November 17
   3. The US hardcover has appeared, but the British edition is still pending

Your turn

Explain why a British reader and a US hardcover buyer may see different availability.

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Read online: https://newsbylevels.com/news/nick-harkaway-taper-man-publication-november-2026/level-2/