“Books are my favourite friends, and I consider my home library, with many thousand books, to be my greatest wealth. Every new book, based on some new idea inspires me and gives me a new thought to ponder,” said A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in a seminal interview to DNA over a decade ago. It's been just under a decade since one of India's most well-respected public figures has passed, and yet his memory echoes on in countless speeches, essays, and even in his multiple posthumously published books, which rather fittingly, comment on everything from his early years to his thoughts on spirituality.
Though the erudite scientist-turned-statesman left behind a massive bibliography of over 25 works, he's also mentioned the works of several other authors whose thoughts on self-development, futurism, moral dignity and more have left echoes in his personal and professional life. Here's a closer look at these books, and why they merit a place on your to-read list:
Tirukkural by Thiruvalluvar
A foundational text in Tamil literature, Tirukkural consists of couplets covering various aspects of life—politics, spirituality, social, and domestic matters. Dr. Kalam, who had a deep connection with Tamil culture, often quoted from this classic to reflect on moral and ethical living .
Light from Many Lamps by Lillian Eichler Watson
Dr. Kalam stumbled upon this book in a second-hand store, and it became a “guiding light” for him. The collection of essays and stories from notable figures like Abraham Lincoln and William Shakespeare helped him during tough times, and he frequently cited passages in his speeches .
Empires of the Mind by Denis Waitley
This self-help book provides personal strategies for leadership and self-mastery. Dr. Kalam used it to reflect on adapting to the fast-paced, knowledge-driven world and often recommended it for those seeking to build leadership skills and personal growth .
Everyday Greatness by Stephen R. Covey and David K. Hatch
A motivational collection of stories about making purposeful choices in life, this book resonated with Dr. Kalam’s belief in living a life of integrity and intention. He admired its practical advice on focusing energy, setting principles, and staying true to one’s values .
Tiya: A Parrot’s Journey Home by Samarpan
Dr. Kalam recommended this philosophical fable about a parrot, Tiya, who leaves its comfortable home to explore the world. He appreciated the book’s message about embracing life’s uncertainties and seeking personal growth beyond comfort zones .
Man, the Unknown by Alexis Carrel
Dr. Kalam referenced this book in My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Actions to stress the importance of balancing the mind and body. Written by Nobel laureate Alexis Carrel, it explores how a healthy mind and body can work together to create wonders, a theme that Dr. Kalam emphasised in his speeches .
The Power by Rhonda Byrne
Another self-help favourite of Dr. Kalam’s, The Power focuses on harnessing positive thinking and emotions to transform one’s life. Dr. Kalam valued the book’s message on the importance of self-belief and its encouragement to attract positive change by giving love .
Gitanjali by Rabindranath Tagore
Dr. Kalam often referenced Gitanjali for its spiritual and philosophical depth. Particularly, the poem “Where the mind is without fear” resonated with his vision for India’s development. Tagore’s exploration of divinity and the human spirit was a source of inspiration for him .
The Prophet by Khalil Gibran
In his spiritual discussions, Dr. Kalam frequently cited The Prophet, a collection of poetic essays on topics such as love, work, and freedom. He valued Gibran’s reflections on life and found the spiritual inspiration it offered to be profoundly impactful .
The Qur'an and The Bible
Dr. Kalam often referenced both the Bible and the Quran in his reflections on unity, morality, and leadership. In his book Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji, he drew upon these religious texts to highlight universal principles of compassion, justice, and peace .
