The always keenly watched -- some say overwatched -- presidential reading list included some unsurprising choices, such as Ron Chernow's acclaimed biography of first president George Washington.
Against the backdrop of racially tinged violence that has marred the second term of America's first black president, Obama is also digging in to Ta-Nehisi Coates's letter to his son about race in America, "Between The World and Me."
There is also a natural history tome, "The Sixth Extinction" by Elizabeth Kolbert, which fits nicely with the environmental focus planned when Obama returns to Washington.
Following up on his trip to India earlier this year, Obama also took along Pulitzer Prize winner Jhumpa Lahiri's "The Lowland," set in Kolkata.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
