“Happiness is a mysterious thing, to be found somewhere between too little and too much.” The prolific Anglo-Indian writer Ruskin Bond said these words, but little did he know that the happiness he was talking about could easily be found in the pages of his books.
Click start to play today’s Crossword, which celebrates the work and life of Bond.
Regarded as one of the best children’s authors in India, Bond has written dozens of novels, short stories, non-fictional pieces and essays. His wonderful books are known for their heartwarming characters and their descriptions of serene, idyllic life in the picturesque Indian countryside.
Bond was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1999 – the fourth-highest civilian award of India – and received the Padma Bhushan in 2014 – an award that is given for “distinguished service of a high order... without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex”. He turned 87 this year, and to celebrate his life and works, here are 5 books from India’s favourite storyteller, which you could consider adding to your bookshelf:
1. The Night Train at Deoli (and other stories)
This is a collection of 30 beautiful short stories, with each one more inspiring and insightful than the next. Set in the beautiful locales of Dehradun and Mussoorie, the book begins with the story of a boy who sees a girl on the platform of Deoli train station, and immediately captures readers’ attention, as we wonder if he will ever find her again.
2. The Room on the Roof
This coming-of-age masterpiece is Bond’s first literary venture, and a favourite among millions of readers around the world. Written when Bond was 17, the semi-autobiographical book follows the story of an orphaned Anglo-Indian boy living in Uttarakhand. It brilliantly captures the hopes and passions that stir young hearts, and explores the enduring themes of love and friendship. The book won the John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize in 1957.
3. The Blue Umbrella
Adapted into a National Film Award-winning movie by the same name, this novel revolves around a young girl, Binya, who acquires a blue umbrella that makes her the envy of everyone in the village. A simple, yet effective story, it expertly dissects human emotions, especially the rot that jealousy sets in, and the restorative powers of generosity.
4. A Face in the Dark
Although Bond is best known for children’s literature, he has also written stories in numerous other genres, like romance and horror. Regarding the latter, Bond once famously said that even though he doesn’t believe in ghosts, he sees them all the time. A Face in the Dark is a collection of supernatural tales, told as if their occurrence is the most natural thing. The stories are set in eerie locations, such as pine forests, abandoned cemeteries and a haunted house.
5. Rusty, the Boy from the Hills
Bond created the beloved character, Rusty, to spin stories about his own past. In this quiet, charming book, Rusty lives with his grandparents in pre-Indian independence Dehradun. Though he doesn’t seek out adventure, the most extraordinary things keep happening around him, and he is swept up in fascinating tales.
Which is your favourite Ruskin Bond story? Play today’s Crossword and let us know at games@gulfnews.com.
