Shikhar Pandit is the Managing Associate at Gandhi & Associates. A graduate of Cardiff University, UK, Pandit, who considers himself to be a full-time lawyer and part-time chef, believes books are the best source of motivation. The Post’s Marissa Taylor talked to him about his reading habits. Excerpts:

How did you first come to love books?

I would say it started when I was in school. We had to spend a couple of hours every week in the school library (forcefully, might I add)

and write book reviews. The  Goosebumps series interested me then. Down the line I discovered books like The Alchemist and Eat that Frog, and started developing a sense of liking towards self-development books.

What was the last book you read and how did you like it?

The last book I read was Steve Jobs, by Walter Isaacson. It motivated me to think in a different light and take steps that would help me personally as well as my organisation to stand out and have the back force to follow through.

Which book do you want to read next and why?

A friend recommended Delivering Happiness, by Tony Hseih, so I’m currently going through it. I also look forward to reading Leading, by Sir Alex Ferguson.

What is your favourite genre?

I am drawn towards books on management skills and creativity.

How do you select books to read?

Most of the books I read are based on friends’ suggestions and the-ever-helpful Amazon. Whenever I browse through bookstores, I just pick up random books and read the synopsis (followed by a quick review on Amazon).

Name a book that you would or would not recommend, and why?

The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho is one book I would recommend; it really makes one wonder about the secrets of the universe. Every time

I read it, I feel the gist is different. One book I would not recommend would be Spark! How Exercise

Will Improve Your Performance, by Dr John J Ratley and Eric Hagerman. It’s like a thesis put in paperback. Although the message is clear, it is truly boring.

Do you prefer fiction or non-fiction? Why?

Non-fiction. I’m more interested in reading about people’s experiences and perspectives than fabricated tales.

What is good writing for you? What would you say makes a good writer?

When a writer can really engage my attention, I consider him/her to be a good writer. When a writer’s articulation of each scene gels with a reader’s state of mind and builds up an emotional connection  that’s when I fall in love with a book.

One book that inspired you a lot and why?

The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho. It has really helped me believe in my dreams and pushed me to achieve them. The Alchemist taught me that there is nothing one can lose by risking everything for your dreams.

Your advice for general readers…

Books do inspire and motivate. They make you ask questions. Everyone should develop a habit of reading–just take out 30 minutes a day, at least, and spend it on learning something new. Start out with audio books if you will. I am a big fan of audio books; when I’m driving, cooking or even going for a walk, audio books really take the edge off.