Exploring a Lifelong Love for Reading

How many novels have you read so far? The exact number is lost to memory, but I estimate around 90 books, a modest start that pales in comparison to the thousands I’ve read throughout my life.

Recommended Novels

Here are a few novels that I particularly enjoyed and would like to recommend:

Angels and Demons - A thrilling mix of mystery and religion. The Kite Runner - A poignant tale of friendship and betrayal. The House in the Cerulean Sea - A heartwarming story of guardians and guardianship. The Truly Devious Series - A gripping series filled with mystery and suspense.

Currently, I’m reading The Box in the Woods, which has been absolutely amazing so far!

My Reading Beginnings

The love for books began at a very young age in my house, where reading was encouraged and seen as a natural part of life. I read an astonishing 4-5 books a day, often with books shelves providing access to a vast variety of genres, from science fiction and fantasy to classic literature and art.

There were no restrictions, and I devoured everything from sci-fi and fantasy to science, art, culture, and nature. It wasn’t until I was 66 years old that I started officially tracking my reading; and by that reckoning, I have likely read several thousand books in my lifetime. Although I read less now, my hobbies have taken up more of my time.

The Start of My Reading Journey in 2020

When the lockdown began in 2020, my routine was significantly disrupted. However, reading novels became an escape and a way to keep my mind engaged. My journey in this year began with the first book by Robin Sharma: 'Who Will Cry When You Die.' The book's message to live a guilt-free life resonated deeply with me.

The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari – An inspiring story of a lawyer who achieves spiritual enlightenment. One Night at Call Center – A thrilling murder investigation novel by Chetan Bhagat. Three Mistakes of My Life – A story of three Gujarati friends and their life-changing mistakes. Koi Pochey – A story of three IITians, which formed the basis of the movie '3 Idiots.' Revolution 2020 – A story of two friends with differing mindsets, one failing to crack IIT and the other succeeding. An Indian Girl – A tale of an independent Indian woman and her challenging marriage. The Alchemist – A must-read book with a famous line The world's greatest lie is not believing in lies. The Fault in Our Stars – A heart-wrenching love story by John Green. If I Too Had a Love Story – A book about a life-changing love story of an IITian. The Girl on the Train – A thrilling psychological thriller by Paula Hawkins. The Silent Patient – Another psychological thriller by Alex Michaelides. The Women in Cabin 10 – Yet another psychological thriller by Ruth Ware.

Currently, I am reading The Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini, a story that sheds light on the issues in Afghanistan during 1970-1980, through the journeys of two girls, Mariam and Laila.

Happy reading!