Yahoo News The books that shaped me: Romesh Ranganathan
Welcome to 'The books that shaped me' - a Good Housekeeping series in which authors talk us through the reads that stand out for them. This week, we're hearing from Romesh Ranganathan, the award-winning comic, actor and author. A former maths teacher, he made his comedy circuit debut in 2010, and has quickly established himself as one of British comedy's brightest stars. He's written several books, including his latest, As Good As It Gets: Life Lessons From A Reluctant Adult.
What impact have books had on you as a person and an author?
I grew up with the idea that you should always be reading a book. Books have influenced major decisions I have made in my life. Reading Frank Skinner’s autobiography made me decide I would give stand-up comedy a go. When it came to writing my own, I always had in mind that I wanted to make people laugh and take a look at my view of the world. My favourite books take you from where you are sitting and to wherever the author wants you to. There is no chance that my books do that but I gave it a go!
The childhood book that's stayed with you...
The book that has stayed with me the most is probably Fantastic Mr Fox by Roald Dahl. It is the first book I ever read in one sitting and I found the story utterly compelling. I was very sad when I grew up and found myself feeling a bit sorry for Boggis, Bunce and Bean, the three farmers who were targeted by Mr Fox, because I knew that meant I had become a boring adult.
Your favourite book of all time...
I love Life of Pi by Yann Martel. The cultural aspect plays a part, as Pi has the same interest in all religions as I do, and the food he describes eating are the same foods that I remember eating when I grew up. The story is tragic and beautiful and I love the fact the ending is completely open to your own interpretation. I remember reading the book on holiday, and I was so sad that it ended that I immediately turned back to the beginning and started reading it again.
The book you wish you’d written...
I wish I had written Ramble Book by Adam Buxton because it would mean I was him and a genius. I think he’s so brilliant, and this book shows you exactly what he is all about and how funny he is, while also touching on relationships and mental health, all with expertly delicate navigation. He is somebody that you makes you feel completely comfortable in his company.
The book you wish everyone would read...
I think everyone should read Why I’m No Longer Talking To White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge. It is a great insight into Black British history and also opens up the world of why racism and discrimination is so complex and why some people find it’s existence plainly obvious and oppressive, while others think it’s a huge fuss about nothing. It’s a powerful read that I think everyone would benefit from.
The book that got you through a hard time...
When I was going through a particularly tough time at home, a book that got me through all of that was Pryor Convictions by Richard Pryor. It helped me along to my realisation that hardships can be dulled or amplified by the way you choose to process them. It all sounds very corny, but that helped me deal with the personal struggles I was having at the time. I was having what I perceived to be having a tough time, and then Richard Pryor told a life story that was 100 times bleaker.
The book that uplifts you...
I love The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night -time by Mark Haddon, a book written from the perspective of an autistic boy who finds the dead body of his neighbour’s dog and decides to investigate. It is beautifully told, and wonderfully poignant. Whenever I read it I feel a little bit sad, and then always much better for having read it.
As Good As It Gets by Romesh Ranganathan, published by Bantam Press, is out now.
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