Book Review: Supertraits of Superstars

Author: Priyanka Sinha Jha

Published by: Rupa Publications

Genre: Non Fiction/Self Help

ISBN: 978-81-291-2978-9

No.of Pages: 186

Price: INR 195

Synopsis: Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Vidya Balan, Karan Johar. These celebrities are adored and looked up to by millions who aspire to emulate their success stories. But what is it that separates them, and other Bollywood stars, from the rest? Which is that one trait that makes them stand out, and how can you benefit from knowing it?  In this one of a kind book, the author looks at eleven luminaries from Bollywood, and the attribute that is perhaps most responsible for their success. She details their stories, and what is it about them that made them not just reach the top of their game, but stay there. With pithy observations and inspirational conversations, 'Supertraits of Superstars' will show you how to live life star-size.

Review: We have all seen the Bollywood Superstars on screen enacting with finesse and ease as if it is a cake walk. But a lot of efforts goes into performing an absolute perfect shot that the director needs. This is just what we, as an audience are able to see on the screens through various mediums. But we rarely get to know our Superstars so closely and 'Supertraits of Superstars' is the book that gives us the all the insights to that defining trait of the eleven most distinguished and respected Superstars.

In this book, the author has picked eleven Superstars and in that one defining Supertrait among various other traits that each of them possess and have mastered it. And that is how the chapters are named. For eg: Amitabh Bachchan: Discipline, Aamir Khan: Pursuit of Perection and so on. The book actually is a sort of biography on the above which also includes John Abraham, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Salman Khan apart from the ones mentioned above.

What is it that keeps these Superstars going and always on their toes and how does they handle the ups and downs in their? Is what the book tell us. What is most striking in the book is the ease with which it is written, in simple and lucid language, with proper references, interesting quotes at the start of each chapter, coupled with some interesting anecdotes to share highlighting a particular trait along with a caricature of artist. The author has managed to focus on their early life, struggles, accomplishments and what can we learn or rather should learn and imbibe into our systems. 

Of all the eleven chapters, my personal favourites are on Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan and Vidya Balan highlighting the trait Discipline, Pursuit of Perfection and Reinvention and will keep on coming back to read again and again.

Overall: A good read for understanding the traits that one really feels one should possess and carry on with it. 

Ratings: 3.5/5

The book was received as part of Reviewers Programme on The Tales Pensieve.