A good book should leave you…slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading it. ~William Styron, interview, Writers at Work, 1958.
World Book Day is celebrated every year on April 23 to promote reading, publishing, and copyright. A book always proves to be the best friend of mankind.
We asked some friends and acquaintances about 1-2 of their favourite books. A common response we received across genders, age and professions was that it is impossible to name 1 or 2 favourite books. When you are an avid reader, books and stories are the different lives you lead, moments you share with the characters, locations and concepts and stuff you get acquainted with…it’s a whole lot of education. You grow with books. There is no ‘one particular book’ that has constructed you in what you are today.
Yet, after coaxing them, we received this list as their favourites. Hope our readers have already, or will catch up with these soon…!
- The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho: I am a firm believer in luck and destiny whatever it maybe called and I also believe that one should keep pursuing one’s dreams and that is what this book is all about.
2. Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown: I immensely liked this thriller book which keeps you on an edge all the time.
3. Mahabharat: Has to be read…
4. Ramayana: Can feature on the all-time favourite list.
5. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy Series (trilogy in 5 parts) by Douglas Adams: This is by far the best book series I have read. Humour and witty punchlines abound in the book. However, what gets me is the profound thoughts that expand your horizon. In a universe where intelligent life exists in every conceivable form (plant to animals included) – is it not better to consume what gives their permission to be consumed – The Restaurant at the End of the Universe. The existence of the most impossible in the Universe – Infinite Improbability Drive. What would happen if earth as in the way of the development of intergalactic highway – would it be demolished. The list is endless and mind blowing. This must read for all Sci-Fi enthusiasts.
6. Why I killed Gandhi by Nathhuram Godse: We get to hear his side of the story, and see a clear picture as to what must have happened…
7. Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card: Simple writing simple characters. Yet, it is a lesson in survival and group dynamics. It is about a young boy who manages to save earth from existential threat. It is about long term planning and mission focus. It is about friendships and sibling bond. The storytelling is compelling, and the narrative is tight. The book leaves you spell-bound.
8. Bhagvad Gita: It teaches Life Management to those who are willing to understand and learn from it…along with laying emphasis on Karma, action, hard work, benevolence, etc. It can transform people into good citizens!
9. Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda: It is like a direction post for spiritual seekers.
10. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: They are the most delightful stories, perfectly portraying human psychology, with humour and kindness.
11. China – A History by John Keay: Perspective….
12. Tamerlane by Justin Marozzi: Good perspective.
You know you’ve read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend. ~Paul Sweeney
Monica (Managing Editor) is the quintessential researcher - she thrives on showcasing overlooked aspects that form the foundation blocks of people, places and issues. She is a social scientist by profession with masters in Economics and loves to travel.