Samir Chopra, RE/MAX India

What are you reading at the moment? What did you recently finish reading? What have you learnt from it?
I'm reading Business @ The Speed Of Thought by Bill Gates these days. I recently finished reading a remarkable book by the name of Everybody Wins by Phil Harkins and Keith Hollihan. It is a very exciting book that gives a detailed account on the stories and strategies behind the commendable growth of RE/MAX.

In my opinion this book offers invaluable advice on how to build a culture that supports both innovation and growth. It is a must read for people looking to convert their vision into action through constant learning.

The one book all leaders must read...
I strongly recommend, It's Not About The Bike: My Journey Back To Life by Lance Armstrong. An outstanding book about a person suffering from cancer, it depicts and advocates how determination and valour can change a story's ending. The book highlights and builds on the spirit and resilience of the human mind showcasing how where there is a will, there is definitely a way'.

One book everyone in your sector should pick up...
I feel everybody in this sector most definitely needs to read the book Everybody Wins. It's an exciting account of a very bold dream which turned the Real Estate industry in the US upside-down and started an all new trend.

What kind of books would you normally buy while traveling?
When I'm travelling I prefer quick reads. The list includes the likes of Who Moved My Cheese, Fish Philosophy, One Minute Manager etc.

Have you written any books? If not, do you plan to write in future? Pl also specify the topic you intend to write on.
No, but I intend to write one at some point in the future. The topics will be in line with all that I've achieved and worked on all my life, all the contributions I've made and things I've learnt. It could range from Business Ethics, to the Significance of transparency in human behaviour. The basic intention behind writing a book will be simply to pass on my learning's forward. All the success I achieve should give courage to others and all my mistakes should prevent others from making the same.

The books you grew up with? What did you like most about it?  
As a child, I read varied books like Commando Comics, Chandamama Inderjaal's Comics (Phantom), Hardy Boys, Enid Blyton, etc. I still remember how thrilling and full of suspense Hardy Boys and Enid Blyton were. It's amazing how every generation grows up with them and lives in that zone of adventure all their childhood. I can see my kids doing the same now. I also read other comic books like Amar Chitra Kathas. These were not only funny but also helped enhance and reinforce my understanding of the basic culture and religious philosophy of India.

Your book shelf consists of....
The book you will not miss at all would be The Alchemist, the most famous and exceptional novel by Paulo Coelho. Another one of my favourites is Jeffery Archer's Kane And Abel; a brilliantly written story of two men. Other books include Like a flowing river, Erin Brockovich, The Firm, Runway Jury,  The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, The Devil And Miss Prym, Jack: Straight From The Gut, 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People.

Where do you shop for books?
I really enjoy buying books with my family. My wife and daughters like to explore new book stores and are my constant guides on where to go and buy from. One place we frequent will be Teksons, besides so many others that we've explored over a period of time.

Have your reading habits changed in the past four or five years? If so, how....
Yes, they have changed with time. I now read short books, business journals and e-books. I like to read more about the industry, markets and the political, economic global environment. But at the same time I try to spare some time for leisure and recreation to maintain a balance.

One book you cherish that you received as a gift... and who gave it to you
I cherish the book, Everybody Wins as it was signed by Dave Liniger, the co-founder of RE/MAX.