Wings Of Fire-Storyline and Review

‘Wings of Fire’ is an honest and straightforward book about Dr Abdul Kalam, that aims to inspire the people of India, make them take pride in their country, and make them believe that all obstacles can be overcome and that all objectives can be achieved when one puts efforts into their work.

The story starts in a small town, Rameshwaram, where Dr Kalam is born, raised and completes his schooling. It takes the reader through the journey of his complete education, followed by his career till he retires. It talks about some of the most important projects he undertook, the difficulties and setbacks he and his team faced, and how they overcame them to achieve their objectives finally. It talks about all the people- his family members, school and college teachers, and colleagues and mentors in his professional career, who inspired and shaped his character.

Events go in chronological order, and, through the book, the reader can live the journey of the great legend from his childhood, his personal and professional experiences, and how he perceives the world around him. It makes one understand the legend’s journey from starting as an engineer to becoming the president of a country.

In some places, the book becomes too ‘Technical’ with loads of details about missile systems, their design, mechanics/electronics, etc. There are also project planning and management terminologies which not everyone can follow. In addition, there are plenty of names of team members, seniors, and colleagues, which are hard to remember. Still, it is done to ensure that no one is left out and everyone, who Dr Kalam appreciated for their work and efforts, is included as a part of his life’s story.

Overall, it is a motivational book that demonstrates heroism in a very unconventional way. It highlights the strength and power one can attain through knowledge and hard work. It indeed makes one believe that if one puts wholehearted efforts in the direction one believes in, all the forces of the world start working in one’s favour and helping achieve the desired goals.