Shahana Goswami, who made her mark in films like Rock On and Haal-E-Dil, tells Sandeep Hattangadi that a book can never be perfectly translated on celluloid.
Favourite reads
My favorite author is the Japanese writer Haruki Murakami and I have read all his books. I like his books because they tell us so much about life. I don’t have any specific genre but I like to read all kinds of books be it fiction or non-fiction.
Earliest reading memories
I remember reading short stories and fables and historical and mythological tales. Later on I would devour Agatha Christie and James Hadley Chase and Nancy Drew.
Weak spot
The British Pakistani writer Mohammed Hanif is another of my favourite authors. His works are like that of the genius Salman Rushdie. What’s more, many of his books have been adapted for films and plays.
A time to read
When it comes to an ideal time to read, any time is good for me as I am a voracious reader. I generally read more than two books at a time. I usually like to read while I am travelling.
Reading quota
I have a huge appetite for reading and, like I said, I generally read more than two books at a time and even more sometimes!
Highly recommended
All books by Roald Dahl and his short stories and novellas.
Preferred format
Given a choice between e-books and physical books, I definitely prefer the latter because holding a book in your hand gives you so much pleasure and happiness. We have read books always holding them in our hands right from childhood and e-books don’t give that human touch and feeling.
Currently reading
All the latest novellas by Haruki Murakami and Mohammed Hanif.
Fave book adaptation
Actually, I have yet to see a good adaptation for screen from a book because a book is so personal in nature and can never be translated on celluloid!
No lies!
Have I fibbed about reading a classic, which I actually hadn’t? No, I don’t do such things.
On the must-read list
It would include Roald Dahl, Haruki Murakami and Mohammed Hanif.