'The Sorcerer's Apprentices motivated me to take the path less travelled'

Nigel Lobo, Executive Chef, The Tap House, tells us how his reading inspired his life choices

What book(s) are you reading right now?
Amish Tripathi's Scion of Ikshvaku. It is the first book of the Ram Chandra series. The book is based on the life of Ram, the legendary Indian king, and is a prequel to the author's Shiva trilogy. I like the way Amish Tripathi reimagines ancient deities and writes in his own distinct style.

Which are the books that changed your life?
Lisa Abend's The Sorcerer's Apprentices. It is one of the books that motivated me to take the path less travelled. I can relate to the book very closely as I have been in the shoes of the apprentices, training in Michelin-starred restaurants that have often been voted as being one of the world's best.
Name one underrated book, and why you'd recommend it.
Life, on the Line by Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas. Beyond television shows, there is more to opening that perfect restaurant. I'd highly recommend this book for people who aspire to be in this profession. It shows the struggle, trials and tribulations of what it takes to be the absolute best in the industry. All this whilst Grant was diagnosed with tongue cancer.
Your favorite literary character.
Fictionally, I guess, it would be Hassan from The Hundred-Foot Journey. His journey - from a humble beginning to becoming a world-famous chef - is something I appreciate.
Your favourite book quote?
"If you want to know what a man's like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals." - J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
- Staff Reporter