To convert an autobiography of the President of the world's largest democracy into a musical audio-book is a daunting task, but the way Three Brothers And A Violin have done so, is exceptional. Using Girish Karnad's narration and providing the right mood with their music and songs (by Shankar Mahadevan and Bombay Jayashree), this talented trio turns the already inspirational story of A P J Abdul Kalam into a moving listening experience. How a small-town boy rose through the ranks to become India's premier rocket scientist and later went on to become its President, is a tale of a great man, and in an audio-book format, it becomes even more effective. (However, this book describes Kalam's early life-story and doesn't cover his Presidential journey). Kalam's never-ending quest to scale higher peaks of knowledge, his humane approach towards life and above all his humility - all these qualities shine through this book.

President A P J Abdul kalam's autobiography Wings of Fire has been a bestseller. And for those who couldn't read it, here's the change to reach for the headphones and hear it.

Karadi Tales has come of age... what better way can I compliment your foray into audio books - with the launch of an abridged version of Wings of Fire, the autobiography of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, His Excellency the President of India.

Look upon it as a milestone in your mystical journey, a transformation from adolescence to adulthood. For, you have now moved on from all things wise and wonderful, taking a quantum leap from talking bears, hungry crocodiles and mythological characters, to real life stories and heroes.

In crossing this chasm, you have been fortunate to be bestowed with a rare responsibility, of giving life to an inner voice, and echoing a heart that beats for a brighter India. The fruit of your labor, the audio CD and attendant book, prove that the confidence was well reposed.

The execution of the book - in terms of layout and visuals reflect the greatest attribute of the protagonist - simplicity.

The narration by Girish Karnad keeps us spell bound in Rameswaram, and it is with a sense of longing we take leave of his ancestral home and his father. From here, we are propelled as silent observers of a non-stop trajectory, a metamorphism from village lad to engineer to scientist to first citizen. We share his sense of surprise as one honor follows another, and we learn and retain one vital lesson as the audio fades, that humility is a sine qua non for success.

Best wishes to Karadi Tales for many more firsts.

R. Chandramouli, Bombay