The Irregulars: Roald Dahl and the British Spy Ring in Wartime Washington

This carefully researched chronicle of Dahl’s WWII espionage ought to be more interesting than it is—the word “spy ring” suggests thrilling acts of derring-do, yet they never come. While occasionally intriguing, this is too frequently a dry collection of old gossip with too many tangents discussing minor characters, their real estate and their clothing. Simon Prebble reads creditably and distinctively, and his English accent is perfect for the subject. But even he can’t hold one’s attention in this excessively digressive, slowly paced academic work. It’s a pity, because this is a comprehensive look at a topic that most people probably know little about: England’s efforts to counter American isolationism. A Simon & Schuster hardcover (Reviews, June 9). (Sept.)