Book recommendations by Shah Rukh Khan: Want to think like the ‘Baadshah of Bollywood’? Here are 5 books recommended by SRK on leadership, ambition, friendship and courage

Shah Rukh Khan is known for his films, but the Bollywood superstar has also spoken about his love for books. Over the years, SRK has recommended books to fans, shared his thoughts on novels and used reading as part of his preparation for challenging roles.

His reading list spans fantasy, science fiction, thrillers, biographies and psychological fiction. Here are some books that have featured in Shah Rukh Khan’s reading journey.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

While preparing to play Rizvan Khan in My Name Is Khan, Shah Rukh Khan carried out extensive research to understand autism and the character’s perspective.


According to The Indian Express, SRK said he read several books as part of his preparation, including Mark Haddon’s The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, which he read more than once. He also watched videos and met people with Asperger’s syndrome to understand the condition and his character better.

The novel follows Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old boy with autism who begins investigating the mysterious death of his neighbour’s dog. Through Christopher’s perspective, the story explores his way of seeing the world, his logical thinking, family relationships and journey towards independence.

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

Walter Isaacson’s biography of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs is another book linked to SRK’s reading interests.

The biography follows Jobs’ life, from his childhood and early interest in technology to the creation and growth of Apple. Drawing on interviews with Jobs and people who knew him, Isaacson examines his creativity, leadership, perfectionism, approach to design and the decisions that shaped his career.

The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead is another notable title associated with Shah Rukh Khan’s reading list.

The novel centres on Howard Roark, an ambitious architect who refuses to change his creative vision to fit society’s expectations. It explores individualism, ambition, creativity and the struggle between following one’s principles and seeking acceptance.

Roark’s journey raises questions about originality, success and whether individuals should conform to society or challenge established ideas.

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

SRK has also shown an interest in Douglas Adams’ popular science-fiction comedy The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.

The story begins with Arthur Dent discovering that Earth is about to be destroyed to make way for an intergalactic highway. He escapes with Ford Prefect, an alien friend, and is drawn into a bizarre journey across the universe.

With its mix of humour, satire and science fiction, the book takes a playful look at humanity, technology, existence and the absurdities of life.

Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

Shah Rukh Khan has also recommended the Harry Potter series.

During a Q&A session on X, formerly Twitter, a fan asked him for a book recommendation to stay occupied during lockdown. SRK suggested starting the Harry Potter series again.

The seven-book series follows Harry Potter after he discovers that he is a wizard and joins Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Along with Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, Harry faces magical challenges, discovers secrets about his past and takes on Lord Voldemort.

The series combines fantasy and adventure with themes of friendship, courage, sacrifice, love and growing up.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians series has also featured in Shah Rukh Khan’s social media posts.

In 2014, SRK shared a line from The Lightning Thief on X while reflecting on how people can create their own versions of reality.

The 2005 novel, the first in the series, follows Percy Jackson, a teenager who discovers that his father is a Greek god. After being accused of stealing Zeus’ lightning bolt, Percy sets out on a quest with his friends to prove his innocence and prevent a conflict among the gods.

The story combines Greek mythology with modern-day adventure, humour and fantasy.

The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

Dan Brown’s bestselling thriller The Da Vinci Code is another book that caught SRK’s attention. The actor took to X to share his appreciation for the novel, calling it good fiction.

The story follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he investigates a murder at the Louvre Museum in Paris. Along with cryptologist Sophie Neveu, he follows a trail of clues involving secret societies, art, history and religion.

The novel combines mystery, conspiracy theories and historical references with a fast-moving plot.

Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

Fantasy fiction also appears on Shah Rukh Khan’s reading list, including Eoin Colfer’s Artemis Fowl. In 2010, SRK shared on X that he was reading the book.

The novel follows Artemis Fowl, a young criminal mastermind who discovers a secret civilisation of fairies. He kidnaps a fairy officer in an attempt to gain access to their technology and magic, but his plan soon turns complicated.

The book mixes fantasy, adventure, humour and problem-solving, making it another distinctive title from SRK’s reading list.

From fantasy adventures and science-fiction comedies to biographies, mysteries and psychological fiction, Shah Rukh Khan’s book choices cover a wide range of genres. His recommendations also offer a glimpse into the stories and ideas that have captured the actor’s curiosity beyond the world of cinema.