One of India’s most loved writers, Ruskin Bond started his writing career at the young age of 17. And now, seven decades and several books later, he is still a best-selling novelist. What is it about him that makes him so popular among avid readers and the masses alike? It is a strong sense of familiarity that he fills his stories with that the readers find so relatable. Plus, his books even though filled with good literature, are never pricy. How often do we find that, right? Winner of several prizes and accolades, let’s have a look at some of the best books of Ruskin Bond that you should read if you haven’t already.
Also read: 10 Best Indian Writers and Authors of the 21st Century
1. The Blue Umbrella
This is one of the most amusing novellas that you’ll ever come across. A village girl named Binya exchanges her precious leopard pendant for a pretty blue umbrella. Soon the umbrella becomes an object of envy for the entire village.
2. The Night Train at Deoli and Other Stories
Bond proves that he is a master storyteller in this beautiful collection of short stories. Set in the Himalayan foothills, this book is a hit of nostalgia and a huge celebration of the value system of the country at large. Each story is so much different and unique from the other that the reader’s excitement will always be at its peak.
3. Rain in the Mountains: Notes from the Himalayas
This book is a little different from the others. It is a collection of essays, journal entries, and poems, all echoing the life of the author growing up in the midst of the Himalayan mountains. The book has a strong semi-autobiographical tone and serves as a comfort read.
4. Love Among the Bookshelves
Let this wonderful writer tell you about the wonderful books that shaped him into the wordsmith that he is. This book is a bibliophile’s saga and a gift to the world.
5. The Hidden Pool
This novel is claimed as Ruskin Bond’s first novel for children. Three friends set out on an enchanting and adventurous trek towards the Pindari Glacier. This novel will give you the vibes of a Mark Twain novel but with the special touch of Ruskin Bond.
6. Falling In Love Again
This delightful anthology of short stories will surely make you fall in love. With each story, you’ll feel like Bond is taking a chapter out of your life and presenting it on paper. This book is that relatable. These stories will simply melt your heart.
7. The Cherry Tree
Who knew that a simple Cherry Tree can be such a powerful symbol of hope and survival! This heart-touching tale of innocence and struggle is one of the best works of Ruskin Bond.
8. A Book of Simple Living
One of the most refined works of Ruskin Bond, this book is a hidden treasure of inspiration. One can feel the wisdom of the writer soaking into the reader’s skin through the pages. That’s the brilliance of this writer.
9. Delhi is Not Far
This book is a gem. It presents a wonderful picture of a small town in India named Pipalnagar, the residents of which share the common dream of living in a big city. This shared dream is the driving force of the novel as the reader joins in with the characters in inexplicable melancholia.
10. A Face in the Dark
This is another amazing collection of short stories and this time the genre is horror! Yes, Ruskin Bond also writes horror fiction and he is damn good at it. The title story will give you chills. Take my word for it.
11. Susanna’s Seven Husbands
One of the most interesting thriller novellas by an Indian author, Susanna’s Seven Husbands is one hell of a read. It’s extremely dark and at the same time induces a kind of sympathy in the hearts of the readers for the protagonist. And while you’re on it, do check out its wonderful adaptation starring Priyanka Chopra. You can thank me later.
12. The Room on the Roof
His first ever novel, this masterpiece got him the prestigious John Llewellyn Rhys Prize in 1957. It is the story of a young adult named Rusty and his coming of age. This is one of the finest books written by Ruskin Bond.
So, these were some of the best books of Ruskin Bond. Are you a Ruskin Bond fan? Do let us know why you love the writer in the comments section. Happy reading!