The only habit which never goes out of fashion and which cannot be outgrown is the habit of reading books. The types of books, the subject that they cover are so vast that it is impossible to even concieve a listing which makes sense. I have chosen therefore attempted to string the authors whose books I have liked most to peruse.

The list is not a countdown nor an attemp to give a rating t these authors as it is my belief that no comparison of authors can ever be accurate.

1. Agatha Christie - An all time favourite. Her books are essential reading for even those casually interested in fiction or detective stories. While the books may seem to be a bit dated and one does not find the tech jumble which is present in so many of recent books, they are as if not more enjoyable. The use of psychology for deduction and subtle clues and a narrative style which captivates the books are night stealers. Characters such as Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple are very famous and there are few people ignorant of them.

2. Erle Stanley Gardner - Another fiction author. But, these books focus on mainly courtroom drama. Though, the books are not lengthy and an avid reader can finish a book in as little as 6 hours you will find them very interesting. The plots are well thought out an frustrate any attempts at guessing the culprit. I have frequently seen the last pages after being unable to control my curiosity. Books featuring Perry Mason are the best. Rest are good too but once you read the exploits of Mason you get used to him.

3. J K Rowling - Hold your fire. You might well wonder what this author is doing in this list but I assure you that Harry Potter deserves to be here without the use of magic. It was with scepticism that I read my first Poter book but soon the world of Harry, Hermione, Ron and Hogwarts made me come back for more. It is almost a feeling of despondency when you have finished all the books and cannot wait for the next one to be out. Try one and then comment, if you want to.

4. Jefferey Archer - If someone has time on his hands and wants to read a novel of almost epic proportions dont miss your Archer. The now disgraced author has a real experience of the corridors of power and uses them well to plot a magnificent tale of personalities revolving around power. Though there are a few novels such as Not a penny less not a penny more which rae a bit different but he really is at his best in Kane and Able. Read it when there is no urgent work the followuing day.

5. Sydney Sheldon - There are people extremely intrested in soaps and Sheldon is a writer who can write the most engrossing novels about people. The books in themselves give a motion picture inside your head as you read it. The books like Other side of Midnight make him one of the best authors. It is guaranteed when you you purchase a Sidney Sheldon book that money would have been well spent.

I will give a few more names if I get encouraging reviews. Let me know what you think of my top authors.