Question From A Newcomer To The Novels
Andy362
Posts: 11MI6 Agent
I've been a fan of the Bond films for roughly twelve years now. But, I've not even started to think about reading the novels...until now. After hearing everybody praise them, I want a piece of the action.
I just wanted to know what types I should buy. Obviously, the Fleming Bond Series is the one I'm talking about. Should I get the older versions? The new Penguin Classic versions? Or doesn't it really matter?
May be an idiotic question. But, I don't know if anything's edited in the newer novels, or if anything else is different.
So, thanks in advance for anyone that can give a clear answer.
I just wanted to know what types I should buy. Obviously, the Fleming Bond Series is the one I'm talking about. Should I get the older versions? The new Penguin Classic versions? Or doesn't it really matter?
May be an idiotic question. But, I don't know if anything's edited in the newer novels, or if anything else is different.
So, thanks in advance for anyone that can give a clear answer.
Comments
In particular, the recently released Penguin editions (with the Retro covers). As not only do they look great, but this edition of "Octopussy And The Living Daylights" includes a short story by Fleming entitled "007 In New York".
Enjoy!
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Once upon a time you could pick them up at second hand book shops. The old Fifties Pan novels are very good, with the yellow strip etc, but change design by the time they get to about Dr No (maybe the sixth novel) or thereabouts... so you can't get the set, it doesn't exist.
If you're asking which novels to start with, well, Casino Royale is as good as any, but Doctor No and Live and Let Die are easy reads, FRWL is a great read.
Leave the Blofeld trilogy for later imo, and defer DAF and TMWTGG, they're not great.
Roger Moore 1927-2017
If, however, I had to choose specific titiles, I'd go with MOONRAKER and DR. NO. Both are absolutely brilliant! MOONRAKER is where Fleming really hits his stride . . . great stuff!
M: "Jealous husbands, outraged chefs, humiliated tailors . . . the list is endless."
I'd have to agree with that. Andy362, if you're going to read the Bond books, read them in order, I think you'd find that they make more sense that way. In some books there is a reference to the previous novel(s), and unless you've read them, you won't get the full picture.
As for which novels are the best ... I'd choose Moonraker, From Russia With Love, Goldfinger, in that order. But they're all good.
Congratulations! I'm insanely jealous---reading them for the first time is a distinct pleasure.
Enjoy :007)
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM