By: Paul Kalinath
Pages: 225
Biography, Inspiration
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 10th Jul'17
Brief review: The biggest truth of life is death and yet we take life for granted. It is only when we face a near death experience our perspective of life changes. The key is to wake up before it is too late. Imagine a scenario when you give life to people and one fine day find yourself at the crossroad of fighting for your own life. A top neuro-scientist (Paul Kalanithi) suffers terminal illness at the age of 36 and this book is a memoir of his own life, illness and experiences thereof. The feeling to witness death from a short distance and the meaning of life and time in such a situation. Though the undertone of the book is painful and grim but it leaves the reader with a lot of inspiration to live well and value life. An emotional, heartbreaking but a beautiful read.
By: Abhinav Bindra & Rohit Brijnath
Pages: 221
Biography, Motivation
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 24th Jun'17
Brief review: Abhinav Bindra won India's first individual Olympic gold. It was in Beijing 2008 in the Men's 10 Metres shooting. This book is a step by step account of his love for the game, preparation for the big event, failing and winning. It talks about the small small things that makes a big impact, the unconditional support of family, the hurt and distraction because of the careless attitude of Indian officials and an untiring commitment to improvement. When Abhinav loses the finals in Athens 2008 due to a unthinkable freak occurrence, he goes in the grind again for four more years to take another shot in 2008. Finally, his efforts pay off as he creates history by becoming the first individual to win an Olympic gold for India. Abhinav defines what perfection is and takes it to next level. What failure teaches you and how you reignite yourself again. Written in a lucid language it will fill you with optimism and encourage to think big. Excellent read.
By: Paramhansa Yoginanda
Pages: 510
Biography
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 11th May'17
Brief review: It's an autobiography of Sri Paramahansa Yogananda who lived between 1893 & 1952. He narrates several of his encounters with spiritual figures. It is invigorating, touching and also sensational. We have heard of super natural powers possessed by saints and this book gives an account of exactly that. During my growing years, I already came across a few spiritual figures referred in the book and so it made a big influence on me.
By: Henry Ford
Pages: 222
Biography, Business
My recommendation: 10 / 10
Date read: 5th May'17
Brief review: Without a doubt, Henry Ford was an industrial genius whose contributions to industry changed the world. He was a thinker much ahead of time and his innovative ideas gave him a place in history. The book gives an account of his life through various challenges and success. It captures the clarity of thought he possessed along with a vision which is unmatched. Published 100 years ago, this book can send shivers to your nerves even today for the decisions he took back then.
By: Straight from the Gut
Pages: 496
Biography, Business
My recommendation: 8 / 10
Date read: 2nd May'17
Brief review: Jack Welch was arguably the best manager in the world. He was the CEO of GE for 20 years and is widely credit to have transformed the company. In this autobiography, he narrates his life story, his struggles, challenges at work and how he made GE one of the most admired company in the world. A must read.
