Kemudi (Almayer's Folly) - Joseph Conrad

The original book was written by Joseph Conrad in 1895. It was translated to Malay language by Hamidah Hassan and Morne Hashim under the initiative of Institut Terjemahan dan Buku Malaysia (ITBM). Usually I would dread reading translated versions (you would be utterly confused after reading). But surprisingly, I must admit that this is not of that kind. It's well written and beautifully narrated. So much so that I could not help turning the pages till the end. Kudos ITBN !

Points to learn:

• A person's heart is so mysterious..either it makes you or breaks you

Rating:✮✮✮

Muhammad Bukan Nasionalis - TGNA & Azrul Hakim Suradi

The title of the book says it all. Allahyarham TGNA (Tuan Guru Nik Abdul Aziz) is no stranger in the Malaysian Islam as well as political scene. It's written to reiterate the universality of Islam. As with the other books by TGNA, it's written in a light yet enjoyable manner (being a book on religion!).

Points to learn:

• Islam is for all
• Islam transcends race, colour or nationality
• In Islam,  Eemaan is the benchmark for a person's status in community

Rating:✮✮✮

Tiga Puteri Gemilang - Fawzia Abdullah

A book written on the illustrious life of  Allahyarham Tan Sri Noah and his three daughters. The original text was published in English. However, the translated copy(in Bahasa Malaysia) is readable(..to note that many books are translated poorly and give the reader a splitting headache).

Points to learn:

• greatness in life is achieved in many ways
• phases in life is a norm
• the end would be to meet your Maker..

Ratings:✮✮

The World of The Noble Angels - Dr 'Umar S. al-Ashqar

Another well-written book (translated from Arabic text) by Dr 'Umar, published by IIPH which is known for its standard and quality. Volume 2 of its Islamic Creed Series. Most recommended to be crystal clear in our beliefs.

Points to learn:

• What you cannot see does not mean it doesn't exists
• Allah created both the seen and unseen
• what the mind(..and heart) doesn't know the eyes don't see

Ratings: ✮✮✮✮

Lakaran Jiwa Merdeka: Catatan dari Penjara Kajang - Tian Chua

Written by a towering figure in the Malaysian political scene (literally speaking as well). Shares his days (30 day to be exact) in the Kajang prison. Gives a glimpse of life inside prison, though not everything. The writer was already a member of Parliment when he was sentenced to prison. Nevertheless, it's an enjoyable read.

Points to learn:

• in prison, time is at your leisure
• many noted figures take this opportunity to read
• freedom is in the mind

Rating: ✮✮

Ubah - Syed Alwi Alatas

A surprisingly simple book BUT with tremendous IMPACT! Can be read in one go! Gives iron-clad motivations which everyone can relate to. A must-read especially for those who need a little nudge in life.

Points to learn:

• Change is inevitable
• Change starts within 
• And hopefully...the rest of the WORLD!

Ratings: ✮✮✮

Formula Solat Sempurna - Ust Zaharuddin Abd Rahman

The author attempts to explain the ways to being khushoo (the heart stands before Allah in humility) during salaah (prayer). A number of pointers are given which In shaa Allah will benefit those facing problems (wandering minds) during salaah.

Points to learn:

• khushoo begins even before salaah
• our daily lifes and beliefs affects khushoo
• khushoo in salaah will bring sweetness and joy in one's life

Rating: ✮✮✮