I read The Bourne Identity when it first came out, in 1980. I devoured it. The movie, 22 years later wasn’t bad, and I’ll be sure to see the new one. I’ve read many of Robert Ludlum’s other books, including the very funny The Road to Gandolfo, so I was pre-disposed to grab Ludlum’s The Janson Directive in the airport ten days ago. I was happy to see that (a) I had not read one of his books and (b) that Ludlum is still alive… but he’s not. He died in 2001, and The Janson Directive was published in 2002. Apparently, he has a few more finished books that are still awaiting publishing. I wonder how finished they were? After completing The Janson Directive, I’ll sum it up as a reasonably fast-paced rewrite of the basic Bourne Identity plot, without the amnesia. A fun read, but not memorable.
For a quick laugh, read the FAQ at the Ludlum Books website. One of the frequently asked questions is “May I please get a signed copy of one of Mr. Ludlum’s books?” Remember, folks, he’s dead! (That’s not their answer, but it should be.)