5 books Kalam wants kids to read

 

Narrating inspiring events in the lives of Father of Green Revolution Norman E Borlog and Mathematics genius Ramanujam, Kalam told a spell-bound audience of children to inculcate "scientific magnanimity" - the ability to recognise the best of knowledge without any reservations.

"You children should learn that great minds and great hearts will be together," he said. At the same time, the academician in the President wanted the teachers to spot the talent lay hidden in a student.

"Ramanujam had failed in all subjects except mathematics. It was his headmaster who, defying opposition gave him admission in high school," he said. Kalam entrusted the task of reforming children to parents, when Sushanti, a seventh standard girl, asked him about the means to tackle corruption among elected political representatives. "Righteousness is the virtue to be inculcated right from childhood.

For success in life, the President has a formula for children. "You develop courage to think differently, to discover, to confront the problems and succeed," he said.

There was also a homework for the students. "I want you all to finish this homework. You should read five books -

 

1.  Empires of the Minds  by Denis Waitly, 

2. Journey into Light by G Venkataraman, 

3. A Brief History of Time by S Hawking,

4. Parallel Worlds by Michao Kaku and

5. The Best of Indian Physics by Dr Siddharth,"

Kalam said. Finally, there was a promise for kids. "All of you should prepare a mission statement for yourself. You write to me one paragraph on what you are going to become in life and for what you will be remembered for. I will give a special gift for the best statement," the President promised the beaming children.