Cricketers reveal their favourite books (part two)

In the second part of ESPNcricinfo's series promoting literacy through cricket, some more leading names from the game reveal the books that they've loved and been inspired by:


Salman Butt
Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert
When a friend from Croyden first recommended this I was a bit bemused, but I soon realised that this story about winning the battle against avarice stands out as a roadmap for life. Refusing to give in to excessive temptation or the pangs of greed that can afflict us all, the central character show us how a modest existence untainted by the vile cloud of materialism is achievable without problematic consequences. I have encouraged some of the younger players in the team to read it.

Andrew Hilditch
Lucky Jim by Kingsley Amis
I remember the first time I read this tale of how those in power have to struggle with the pathetic ambition of those beneath them. I loved the way that logic and rationality is trumped by internal politics and whimsical favouratism. Never understood the ending though when the key upstart is seemingly rewarded for his application and intelligence. Bizarre.

Giles Clarke
Twilight by Stephanie Meyer
Everyone else has jumped on this bandwagon so I don't see why I shouldn't. Besides, I loved the cover and that's as good a way as any to judge a moustache. Sorry, I didn't mean moustache. I meant book. Don't blame me if you realise it's fraudulent, insipid cack after a couple of pages.

Nathan Hauritz
The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
I found this a bit depressing, but I'll go for it because Ricky said he'd have the confidence to bowl me on those tracks. He's a top bloke.

Harbhajan Singh
The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling
Haven't actually read the book, but man, I just love that cartoon with King Louis. King of the Swingers. What a dude. Made me realise that monkeys are really great guys. Often say to my pals, "Hey, monkey! You're my BFF!". Sometimes people misunderstand, especially back home in the Punjab, and then they get the grumps so I slap them.

Chris Tavare
War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
Rather flamboyant and fast-paced, but once it settles down this is an engaging, if too brief, tome that I often read at the crease in between scoring.

If you liked these choices why not read them yourself? At time of writing, books are still available at libraries in some parts of Britain.

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