Wings of Fire

Name of Reviewer – Archana Pant, Final Year B.A.B.Ed, Ashoka College of Education, Nashik.
I issued this amazing book from library and after reading it I started looking at things from different perspective like the struggles of life and the things which I have are enough that are not available to others.
The book is divided into four parts, each detailing a specific phase of his life that are orientation, creation, propitiation and contemplation.
Right from childhood his lessons begin right from his home where his role models were his own parents. APJ Kalam is known for his humbleness and noble character which he acquired from his family .
From phase 1 talks about his early life and education : Abdul Kalam was born in 1931 to a humble Tamil Muslim family in Rameswaram. His parents, especially his father Jainulabdeen and mother Ashiamma, made him learn the virtues of hard work, humility, and spirituality despite financial constraints. He excelled in academics and encouraged by family and villagers to study further.
Phase2 is Creation: Career in Aeronautics where Kalam joined the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT) and specialized in aeronautical engineering. He started his professional career at the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and later at the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). During his period at ISRO, Kalam worked on the SLV-III project with which India launched its first satellite, Rohini, into orbit in 1980. This was a launching pad for India as a space-faring nation.
Phase 3 is Propitiation: Contributions to Defense and Technology here Kalam returned to DRDO, where he became involved in India’s missile development program, earning him the title “Missile Man of India.”
Phase 4 is Contemplation: Vision for India .He emphasized education, innovation, and the empowerment of the youth. Kalam believed that India’s strength lay in its human resources and their ability to dream and achieve.
So this is a deeply moving journey of Kalam from nothing to achieving and inspiring everyone. Every page tells a new story and shine in the heart of the reader. My favorite quote from the book which really stayed with me is” We are all born with a divine fire in us ,our efforts should be to give wings to this fire and fill the world with the glow of its goodness”.What is truly commendable is his humbleness even after reaching heights and leading our country that teaches us the lesson of simple thoughts and hardwork. It also explains if your plan is not successful then there is another path destined for you which will be far greater just like his dream of joining Indian air force but not able to clear interview later we all know what he achieved with great thoughts and constant efforts. I truly grateful to Abdul Kalam for his teachings and inspiring different generations also Arun Tiwari for co authoring this book. Lessons I learned are resilience in the face of challenges, humility, simplicity and service to nation. He will always be remembered for his simplicity and noble thinking
Dream is not that which you see while sleeping; it is something that does not let you sleep.”
This quote summarizes the essence of Wings of Fire—the power of dreams and the determination to turn them into reality.
Wings of Fire is not just an autobiography but a guide to achieving greatness through determination and teamwork. It’s a must-read for students, professionals, and anyone seeking motivation to overcome challenges and contribute to the greater good. Thus this book really helped me to dream and follow them without worrying about result because learning is all that matters in the end. I would like to recommend this book to all for turning your dreams into reality.
Thank you