Deep Undercover

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What to expect

One decision can end everything … or lead to unlikely redemption.

Millions watched the CBS 60 Minutes special on Jack Barsky in 2015. Now, in this fascinating memoir, the Soviet KGB agent tells his story of gut-wrenching choices, appalling betrayals, his turbulent inner world, and the secret life he lived for years without getting caught.

On October 8, 1978, a Canadian national by the name of William Dyson stepped off a plane at O’Hare International Airport and proceeded toward customs and immigration.

Two days later, William Dyson ceased to exist.

The identity was a KGB forgery, used to get one of their own―a young, ambitious East German agent―into the United States.

The plan succeeded, and the spy’s new identity was born: Jack Barsky. He would work undercover for the next decade, carrying out secret operations during the Cold War years—until a surprising shift in his allegiance challenged everything he thought he believed.

Deep Undercover reveals the secret life of this man without a country and tells the story no one ever expected him to tell.

Critics Review

  • “An intriguing inside look at international espionage.”

    Kirkus Reviews
  • “Fascination with spies runs deep, particularly those who are under deep cover…Reading [this] intriguing story, you realize how few of us would willingly undertake such a mission.”

    Peter Earnest, executive director, International Spy Museum
  • “Gripping and emotional, Deep Undercover peers beyond the Iron Curtain for a look into the world of a KGB officer illegally living abroad…Barsky tells his story with honesty and heart.”

    Joel Fields, writer and executive producer, The Americans
  • “As a double agent who worked against Russia, I thought I had heard it all. Then I heard Jack’s story.”

    Naveed Jamali, former double agent and author of How to Catch a Russian Spy

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