What's on Zahabiya Khorakiwala, Sahil Malik's reading list while travelling?

Leading names reveal the tomes that they have carried on their travels.

Ashwini Ponnappa - Badminton player
“A Nicholas Sparks book. They are fun, exciting, romantic and take you on a lovely journey.

I love most of his books and would definitely take one of them on a holiday. I loved his book See Me. It’s sort of a thriller, romantic story.”

Zahabiya Khorakiwala MD, Wockhardt Hospitals
“I picked up Andre Agassi’s autobiography 'Open' at an airport book store on my way to New York and it has been a treasured source of inspiration for me since. One of the most colourful and compelling characters tennis has ever seen, Agassi changed the sport forever and made it more inclusive.

With his unwavering spirit, unconventional air and nonconformist approach towards tennis and life, not only has he achieved success for himself but has also wooed youth to tennis. His story is about never giving up, believing in one’s own game and playing it with courage and determination. I cherish 'Open' because it encourages one to persevere, even when everything seems to be set against you.”

Sahil Malik MD, Da Milano
“When I travel on holiday, I prefer to read nonfiction. The book that I last read and would recommend is 'Good to Great' by Jim Collins, which is a good read for everyone — especially those in business.

Reading is something I do not get time for in my day-to-day schedule. But while on a holiday, you have less on your mind and your long-haul flights can get interesting with some learning. The next book I’m looking forward to finish on my next break is 'Outliers: The Story of Success' by Malcolm Gladwell.”

Sumit Rai MD, Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance
“There is always a new book to read on holidays. And depending on how many days, there will be multiple books ranging from history and biographies to management, as well as the occasional thriller.

I love to read whenever I have free time on holidays, and before going to sleep every day. The one sure book for the next holiday is Walter Isaacson’s 'Leonardo Da Vinci'. It’s been on my list for some time.”

Bojan Jankulovski Head of operations, Maserati India
“I usually prefer reading biographies of people who left behind a legacy and inspired millions. Fearlessness — just one word is enough to define Muhammad Ali, a personality who has deeply inspired me. And his biography ['Ali: A Life'] by Jonathan Eig is one book that I carried with me on my trip to Croatia.

Eig’s comprehensive account of Ali pulls no punches. The possibility of turning your weakness into strength and then becoming ‘the greatest’ is what leadership and self-actualisation is all about. We all face challenges professionally and personally, but great books like this on greater people are my major source of inspiration.”