
Dr. Abdul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, commonly known as APJ Abdul Kalam, was much more than India’s 11th President. He was an aeronautical engineer, rocket scientist, visionary, teacher and one of the most inspiring heads of state in living memory. Honoured with prestigious awards like the Padma Bhushan, the Padma Vibhushan and the nation’s highest civilian award- the Bharat Ratna, Dr. Kalam always led a life of humility and discipline while serving the nation.
APJ Kalam, the Missile Man of India, was indeed the most revered Indian who remained dedicated throughout his life and led a remarkable life with grace and humility. Apart from being a great personality with a visionary approach, he was also a writer, and there are many books written by APJ Abdul Kalam. His books are an inspiration for many, and he always had a message for our countrymen and addressing every burning issue faced by India.
Check out the APJ Abdul Kalam books list, which every citizen of India should read.
Best 7 Books Written by APJ Abdul Kalam
1. Wings of Fire: An Autobiography
“Wings of Fire” is one of the most recognised autobiographies written by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. The book mentions the life journey of Dr. Kalam, from humble beginnings in Rameswaram to becoming the chief architect of India’s missile programs, everything is narrated in this book. Co-authored with Arun Tiwari, the book shares Dr. Kalam’s personal experiences, challnges, and his role in India’s defense sector.
APJ Abdul Kalam book wings of fire is a source of inspiration for millions, especially students and young professionals. By reading “Wings of Fire”, the world gets to know about some of the brilliant minds who worked behind Indian space research such as Dr Vikram Sarabhai and Dr Brahm Prakash.
Inspiring thought by APJ Abdul Kalam
“No dream is too big when you have the courage to pursue it. From a small town in Rameswaram to leading India’s missile program—Kalam’s life teaches us that determination can turn impossibility into destiny.”
2. India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium
Co-authored with Dr. Y.S. Rajan, this book mentions Dr. Kalam’s vision for India to become a developed nation by 2020. It emphasises the steps needed in various sectors such as science, technology, agriculture, and industry to achieve this goal. The book not only focuses on the challenges India faces but also provides solutions, encouraging citizens to contribute to the nation’s development.
Dr Kalam, through various statistical proofs, proves that ‘Vision 2020′ can be achieved. He further illustrated the same by giving many examples, like the success of the Green Revolution and the development of space technology.
Inspiring thought by APJ Abdul Kalam
“A nation’s true strength lies in the dreams of its people. Kalam’s vision for India is a call to every citizen to think beyond limitations and be active architects of a better tomorrow.”
3. The Luminous Sparks: A Biography in Verse and Colours
Published in 2004, Luminous Sparks: A Biography in Verse and Colours is a unique creation of many poems and biographical notes accompanied by matching and thought-provoking visuals. The book presents Dr. Kalam’s life and values through a beautiful combination of poetry, philosophical musings, and visual art.
For those looking for some inspiring thoughts, APJ Abdul Kalam‘s book offers a poetic lens into his heart and mind.
Inspiring thought by APJ Abdul Kalam
“Art, poetry, and purpose come together in this soul-stirring collection that reminds us: greatness is not only in action, but also in reflection.”
4. The Family and The Nation by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
This is one of the books written by APJ Abdul Kalam along with Dr. Y.S. Rajan. The book talks about how the Indian society can grow and considers spirituality an important factor in making a noble nation and a better world. The book provides a valuable counterpoint to the modern-day emphasis on consumerism and the philosophy that more is better, highlighting the sanctity of the natural world and its great power to evoke human creativity and love.
Moreover, it not only focuses on the challenges India faces but also provides solutions, encourages citizens to make meaningful contributions to the nation’s development.
Inspiring thought by APJ Abdul Kalam
“A strong nation begins with a strong family. Dr. Kalam beautifully reminds us that values, compassion, and spirituality are the true roots of national development.”
5. Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India

APJ Abdul Kalam’s book name Ignited Minds book was written keeping the youth of India in mind, as Dr. Kalam strongly believed that the younger generation had the potential to bring a revolution in the country. The book talks about Dr Kalam’s journey of connecting with students from all over the country and sharing their life experiences. In this book, he mentioned the key role of education, knowledge, and hard work in shaping the future of India.
He also prioritises the need for a developed India and inspires readers to dream big and work with resilience for the betterment of society and the country as a whole.
Inspiring thought by APJ Abdul Kalam
“When young minds are ignited with vision and passion, a nation’s future transforms. This book is a clarion call to India’s youth: believe in yourself, and the nation shall rise.”
6. Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji by Arun Tiwari
This book, Transcendence, is written by Dr Kalam along with Arun Tiwari. In this book, Dr. Kalam talks about his spiritual journey and close association with Pramukh Swami Maharaj, a spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan sect.
By reading this book, the readers can get key insights into Dr. Kalam’s spiritual beliefs and how they are an inspiration for others. Also, it provides readers a glimpse of his connection with faith and spirituality.
Inspiring thought by APJ Abdul Kalam
“True greatness is rooted in humility and faith. In his spiritual reflections, Dr. Kalam shows us how science and spirituality can walk hand-in-hand toward inner peace and universal progress.”
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Final Summary
The books written by APJ Abdul Kalam are always a source of inspiration for millions; they provide direction, purpose, and hope. Apart from his contribution to the development of ballistic missiles and launch vehicle technology, the books written by APJ Abdul Kalam will continue to ignite the minds.
These books remain timeless resources for all those who want to be inspired, informed, and ignited with purpose. As Dr. Kalam rightly said,
“Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts, and thoughts result in action.”