'Michelle Obama's book is as inspiring as it is well-written'

Talking books with Pallavi Sangtani, marketing manager at wecashanycar

Which book(s) are you reading at the moment?
Becoming by Michelle Obama. I have always been in awe of her, and a very dear friend gifted me a copy of her new autobiographical memoir for the new year. She talks about a range of topics from her roots and her political journey to her public service work and motherhood. She is an absolute bad*** boss woman and her book is as inspiring as it is well-written.
What are the books that changed your life and shaped your outlook?
Various books have made a difference in my life across different time periods. With Harry Potter, I discovered an escape into a world of magic when I was a teenager and it led to a long journey of reading, creativity, writing and discovery.?As a foodie who enjoys cooking, A Cook's Tour by Anthony Bourdain was very relatable. His vivid descriptions of his journey with food have helped diversify my understanding and appreciation of the culinary world, and I believe he will always remain to be an inspiration for the culinary world.
Lastly, one of the most difficult reads for me was Mayada by Jean Sasson. An emotional reading experience, it forces you to think about atrocities in the world you live in and you cannot help but appreciate and be inspired by the strength of the women Sasson talks about.
Most memorable literary character (and why)?
Albus Dumbledore from the Harry Potter series. A source of inspiration, advice, wisdom and occasional quirkiness, his character has always been my favourite, and continues to be with the Fantastic Beasts saga uncovering his journey as a young professor.
A book that you think is underrated (and why)?
India: From Midnight to Millennium by Shashi Tharoor. The book is compelling and very engaging, discussing matters like the caste segmentation within India, democracy, the Partition, and economic transitions in the country: significant topics which continue to hold high relevance even today - and quite a big feat, considering that the book was published in the 90s.
Your favourite book quote.
One is simply not enough so I'm going to pick two. "For you, a thousand times over" is how The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini ends, and it is one of the most hauntingly beautiful and memorable lines I have ever read.?
The quote through which I always aim to live my life is from Harry Potter: "Happiness can be found even in the darkest times if one only remembers to turn on the light." Believe it and you'll find it to be true.
- Staff reporter