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The Golden Years: The Many Joys of Living a Good Long Life
Ruskin Bond is eighty-nine years long past sixty, the age at which one becomes a senior citizen; also the age around which it is said one should think of retiring from active life. As the years go by, his contentment with living the life he has chosen--keeping to himself, with his family and his books, in Landour--has only grown stronger. He takes great joy in the world outside his the changing shades of nature, interesting people, good food, nice walks. Inside his room there are thoughts and memories, and the journal and letters he writes every day. All of it makes for a wonderful life--and that is what this book is about. In his trademark warm, witty, whimsical style and his marvellously simple prose, Ruskin tells us how to enjoy the advancing years some of us are blessed with, and how to make the most of the amazing gift called life.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2023
26 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Ruskin Bond
635 books3,557 followersRuskin Bond is an Indian author of British descent. He is considered to be an icon among Indian writers and children's authors and a top novelist. He wrote his first novel, The Room on the Roof, when he was seventeen which won John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize in 1957. Since then he has written several novellas, over 500 short stories, as well as various essays and poems, all of which have established him as one of the best-loved and most admired chroniclers of contemporary India. In 1992 he received the Sahitya Akademi award for English writing, for his short stories collection, "Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra", by the Sahitya Akademi, India's National Academy of Letters in India. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1999 for contributions to children's literature. He now lives with his adopted family in Landour near Mussoorie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 19, 2023
The Golden Years by Ruskin Bond is an enchanting memoir that beautifully celebrates the joys and serenity of growing old. Bond, at eighty-nine years old, invites readers into his world, where he has embraced a life of contentment and appreciation for the simplest of pleasures.
Through his eloquent prose, he captures the essence of his chosen existence in the idyllic town of Landour, Mussoorie. Bond's reflections on nature, flavorful cuisine, captivating walks, and fascinating encounters transport readers to a realm of tranquility and contemplation. His words impart wisdom and encourage us to find happiness in life's unassuming moments.
The book is a heartfelt reminder to cherish every moment, embrace the passage of time, and discover the magic in each phase of our journey.
Read the detailed review here - Books Charming
Through his eloquent prose, he captures the essence of his chosen existence in the idyllic town of Landour, Mussoorie. Bond's reflections on nature, flavorful cuisine, captivating walks, and fascinating encounters transport readers to a realm of tranquility and contemplation. His words impart wisdom and encourage us to find happiness in life's unassuming moments.
The book is a heartfelt reminder to cherish every moment, embrace the passage of time, and discover the magic in each phase of our journey.
Read the detailed review here - Books Charming
November 29, 2023
Review coming soon!
April 27, 2024
The Golden Years - Ruskin Bond
Rating 3/5
Another of Ruskin Chacha's recent books. The book is a short one comprising of essays. Each essay is at the max 3 pages. I could read the book in under 3 hours.
Bond writes about his experiences having grown older and wiser. Loneliness, solitude, plants, trees, seasons, India back then versus now find a mention. Apart from these Bond's childhood memories - time he spent with his grandmother, gardener Dhuki - back in the days when Dehra was a sleepy town. Few essays include Bond's stay in Jersey Islands, England his routine and food habits back in England versus India. A couple of essays are on the books which Bond read during his childhood, a mention about his school library his ' no say ' to any physical activity.
Mostly these are about his recollections about the life gone by. The book can be classified as a super comfort read, plus knowing you could complete this one in such less time, makes you feel good too.
Cheers,
Rating 3/5
Another of Ruskin Chacha's recent books. The book is a short one comprising of essays. Each essay is at the max 3 pages. I could read the book in under 3 hours.
Bond writes about his experiences having grown older and wiser. Loneliness, solitude, plants, trees, seasons, India back then versus now find a mention. Apart from these Bond's childhood memories - time he spent with his grandmother, gardener Dhuki - back in the days when Dehra was a sleepy town. Few essays include Bond's stay in Jersey Islands, England his routine and food habits back in England versus India. A couple of essays are on the books which Bond read during his childhood, a mention about his school library his ' no say ' to any physical activity.
Mostly these are about his recollections about the life gone by. The book can be classified as a super comfort read, plus knowing you could complete this one in such less time, makes you feel good too.
Cheers,
February 8, 2025
Breezy, leisurely read but at the same time thoughtful and profound. Makes me want to read more books by Ruskin Bond!
May 5, 2024
A comfort read, the quintessential Ruskin Bond. This book is a collection of 60 chapters - each one an observation on life and the many joys of living a simple and good life, filled with family, friends, nature, books and music. Not to forget his pet cat Mimi.
July 4, 2023
Initial chapters felt like, this book is written for those who have retired or are going to retire. But soon the chapters grew towards those Bond like- simple and nature loving anecdotes about finding beauty and happiness in small things around us.
December 26, 2023
Ruskin Bond's writings are the constant comforts that soothes and helps to find joy in little things for big happiness.
December 31, 2023
Enjoyed it
November 7, 2024
Ruskin Bond : A connoisseur of life
In this book, Ruskin Bond has a delightful freewheeling conversation with his readers about life lived so far and how he is not done yet. He doesn't try to use heavy words and obtuse deep philosophy. These are honest reflections about various mundane as well as important things in life. The title makes it seems like a book written for senior citizens but that is not really the case. Each chapter is of 2 to 4 pages. The book can be easily finished over a weekend. Another plus point is that it comes in a beautifully designed hardcover format.
I am noting some of the highlights from the book here :
1) Why do people retire at all? Why does that number 60 fill them with apprehension? Why do they feel it ends the active period of their life?
It is actually opposite of that. We have, hopefully, learned from all the mistakes of our youth. We have acquired maturity, if not great wisdom. We can't change the world. We grew up in a troubled world and here we are, still in a troubled world. It is so because humans are troublesome by nature.
But if we have reached the age of 60, that means we have learned to live with trouble!
2) Ancient Hebrew sage Hillel said,
“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?”
Ruskin agrees with it.
3) Loneliness is somethings that is thrust upon us. Solitude is something which we seek.
4) Idleness is different from laziness. Idleness is aimlessness and non-productive. It signifies an empty head. Laziness is different. It is a quality possessed by an intelligent person, or cat, who just wants to sit back a little and watch the world go by.
5) Gentle reader, if you are reading this, you have probably made the right choice. For you are a reader of the printed word and those who have read widely of great men, philosophers, saints, failed men have acquired a knowledge of human nature and are better placed to make the right choices.
6) Laugh it off: That's the best way to deal with an unkind remark, undeserved criticism or even a personal insult. Your critique would like to see you lower your guard, react with anger, lose your dignity. But if you can remain courteous and good humoured, you will have taken the moral high ground and you will feel and be the better for it.
7) French political philosopher Montesquieu observed, "Happy is the country which has no history." A country inherits its conflicts, prejudices, divisions, ethnic and religious differences and it cannot change the past. A past of lost empires, failed kingdoms, invasions, migrations. It takes a very wise leadership and a reasonably wise political class to deal with the unhappiness all these conflicts bring about.
8) There is of course one antidote to unhappiness, and that is prosperity. If all of us are making a good living and our family & friends are comfortable, harmony prevails.
A hungry man is an angry man and no one feels like fighting after a heavy meal.
9) When all the wars are done:
Ruskin bond expands on his famous line : When all the wars are done, a butterfly will still be beautiful.
When the battle is over and the field is empty of warring men, the birds will return to the remaining trees.
As the dead and wounded are carried away, the whistling thrush will sing its song and the rooks will return to their homes.
When all the wars are done, my friend, a dewdrop on a blade of grass will still reflect the universe.
10) As we grow older we learn to differentiate between the creators and destroyers, and we look to the great thinkers and artists and writers to give our lives some meaning. And they do give us what we are looking for, because over the years we have seen both good and evil, love and hate, perfection and pollution, kindness and cruelty. As we grow old we can look back on all our faults and frailties, strengths and achievements, and come to a place of calm, the summit of a mountain, from which we can look down on the seething mass of humanity, and see both the beauty and the terror. That is our privilege. These are our golden years. We have become connoisseurs of life. We have finally learnt to think for ourselves. We can distinguish the tremendous from the trivial.
Considering the increasing life expectancy in India and elsewhere in the world, there are many useful wise words in this small book for all of us.
In this book, Ruskin Bond has a delightful freewheeling conversation with his readers about life lived so far and how he is not done yet. He doesn't try to use heavy words and obtuse deep philosophy. These are honest reflections about various mundane as well as important things in life. The title makes it seems like a book written for senior citizens but that is not really the case. Each chapter is of 2 to 4 pages. The book can be easily finished over a weekend. Another plus point is that it comes in a beautifully designed hardcover format.
I am noting some of the highlights from the book here :
1) Why do people retire at all? Why does that number 60 fill them with apprehension? Why do they feel it ends the active period of their life?
It is actually opposite of that. We have, hopefully, learned from all the mistakes of our youth. We have acquired maturity, if not great wisdom. We can't change the world. We grew up in a troubled world and here we are, still in a troubled world. It is so because humans are troublesome by nature.
But if we have reached the age of 60, that means we have learned to live with trouble!
2) Ancient Hebrew sage Hillel said,
“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?”
Ruskin agrees with it.
3) Loneliness is somethings that is thrust upon us. Solitude is something which we seek.
4) Idleness is different from laziness. Idleness is aimlessness and non-productive. It signifies an empty head. Laziness is different. It is a quality possessed by an intelligent person, or cat, who just wants to sit back a little and watch the world go by.
5) Gentle reader, if you are reading this, you have probably made the right choice. For you are a reader of the printed word and those who have read widely of great men, philosophers, saints, failed men have acquired a knowledge of human nature and are better placed to make the right choices.
6) Laugh it off: That's the best way to deal with an unkind remark, undeserved criticism or even a personal insult. Your critique would like to see you lower your guard, react with anger, lose your dignity. But if you can remain courteous and good humoured, you will have taken the moral high ground and you will feel and be the better for it.
7) French political philosopher Montesquieu observed, "Happy is the country which has no history." A country inherits its conflicts, prejudices, divisions, ethnic and religious differences and it cannot change the past. A past of lost empires, failed kingdoms, invasions, migrations. It takes a very wise leadership and a reasonably wise political class to deal with the unhappiness all these conflicts bring about.
8) There is of course one antidote to unhappiness, and that is prosperity. If all of us are making a good living and our family & friends are comfortable, harmony prevails.
A hungry man is an angry man and no one feels like fighting after a heavy meal.
9) When all the wars are done:
Ruskin bond expands on his famous line : When all the wars are done, a butterfly will still be beautiful.
When the battle is over and the field is empty of warring men, the birds will return to the remaining trees.
As the dead and wounded are carried away, the whistling thrush will sing its song and the rooks will return to their homes.
When all the wars are done, my friend, a dewdrop on a blade of grass will still reflect the universe.
10) As we grow older we learn to differentiate between the creators and destroyers, and we look to the great thinkers and artists and writers to give our lives some meaning. And they do give us what we are looking for, because over the years we have seen both good and evil, love and hate, perfection and pollution, kindness and cruelty. As we grow old we can look back on all our faults and frailties, strengths and achievements, and come to a place of calm, the summit of a mountain, from which we can look down on the seething mass of humanity, and see both the beauty and the terror. That is our privilege. These are our golden years. We have become connoisseurs of life. We have finally learnt to think for ourselves. We can distinguish the tremendous from the trivial.
Considering the increasing life expectancy in India and elsewhere in the world, there are many useful wise words in this small book for all of us.
May 19, 2023
The Golden years- “The many joys of living a good long life”, as I read through this book with 60 short stories and recollections, I could gather that he is one such person who could find a story in the minutest experience of his life. This book talks about his English teacher, donating his CD’s to Odean Cinema person to play at intervals, a muleteer who taught him the importance of eating onions while trekking. He recalls bits of remarkable history of India partition, Second World War, Queen’s coronation. How dearly he misses typing his typewriter that travelled from Channels Island to England and then to Mussoorie, India which he still holds on to but does not use it.
Furthermore there were few incidents that I could relate to like his love for Jalebi’s, mangoes, his walks and love for plants and trees. Even I hate seeing greenery departing and the earth turning into clay. Greenery, trees and flowers provide delight and pleasure to me to just like him. He grew a fried pea in his bedside pot and enjoyed its growth, I enjoy growing seeds too. Some grow up to become a plant and some just die. But I still enjoy their plant journey.
He talks about his granny and it reminds me of mine except she never left a dime to me in her will.
I also love the creamy white butter on my toast and hot parathas and this reminds me of my mother who used to churn it herself every Sunday. And when it comes to naming, I have given names to all my pets and street dogs too.
Just like a crow that sits on his window ledge, an eagle visited me on a regular basis on the windowsill at my work desk at Statesman House Building in Connaught Place Delhi.
And yes!! He is not the only person who makes chapatis in the shape of an Indian map, I have been cooking since 18years now and I till date I am imperfect.
At many intervals he recalls Delhi and I consider myself a perfect example of a pure “Delhiet”, born brought up and married in Delhi. I love my city the way he loves Landour Mussoorie. This reminds me to inform his that yes there are still many ‘jamun’ trees near Rashtrapati Bhavan and there is one outside my house which creates a havoc in monsoon when the road becomes dark blue in colour because of the scattered Jamuns.
His walks in front of legendary homes in streets of London reminds me how I first met him, I was only 17. I was staying near his house in a lodge in Landour with my friends from school. An old man sitting with his spectacles outside a book store. He was down to earth and cute as a Santa Claus. Everyone in Mussoorie knows him and his house, so we did a peak a boo whenever we crossed his house on the way to our lodge.
I love each and every book written by my favourite Author and here’s wishing him a happy birthday and many more to come and many books to read…
Furthermore there were few incidents that I could relate to like his love for Jalebi’s, mangoes, his walks and love for plants and trees. Even I hate seeing greenery departing and the earth turning into clay. Greenery, trees and flowers provide delight and pleasure to me to just like him. He grew a fried pea in his bedside pot and enjoyed its growth, I enjoy growing seeds too. Some grow up to become a plant and some just die. But I still enjoy their plant journey.
He talks about his granny and it reminds me of mine except she never left a dime to me in her will.
I also love the creamy white butter on my toast and hot parathas and this reminds me of my mother who used to churn it herself every Sunday. And when it comes to naming, I have given names to all my pets and street dogs too.
Just like a crow that sits on his window ledge, an eagle visited me on a regular basis on the windowsill at my work desk at Statesman House Building in Connaught Place Delhi.
And yes!! He is not the only person who makes chapatis in the shape of an Indian map, I have been cooking since 18years now and I till date I am imperfect.
At many intervals he recalls Delhi and I consider myself a perfect example of a pure “Delhiet”, born brought up and married in Delhi. I love my city the way he loves Landour Mussoorie. This reminds me to inform his that yes there are still many ‘jamun’ trees near Rashtrapati Bhavan and there is one outside my house which creates a havoc in monsoon when the road becomes dark blue in colour because of the scattered Jamuns.
His walks in front of legendary homes in streets of London reminds me how I first met him, I was only 17. I was staying near his house in a lodge in Landour with my friends from school. An old man sitting with his spectacles outside a book store. He was down to earth and cute as a Santa Claus. Everyone in Mussoorie knows him and his house, so we did a peak a boo whenever we crossed his house on the way to our lodge.
I love each and every book written by my favourite Author and here’s wishing him a happy birthday and many more to come and many books to read…
December 14, 2024
Ruskin Bond is one of my favourite authors. While this review might appear biased, I assure you it is not. The Golden Years–The Many Joys of Living a Good Long Life is a worthwhile read and deserves all the praise in the world.
This book is special to me for two reasons–First, of course, it is by a beloved author. And secondly, it is an autographed copy that I won as part of an Instagram giveaway.
In this book, Bond shares vignettes from his life, starting from early childhood days to the present. In the introductory note, the author states,
“This book is about growing old and liking it.”
This book is inspiring on so many levels. I paused often to ponder over the words, absorb their magic, and just contemplate on my journey. That’s the power of Bond’s writing.
To say I loved this book would be an understatement. One thing’s for sure, I would be returning to this book often, to seek guidance, to reflect, and to learn to enjoy life more fully.
I wish I could quote all the lines that stirred my heart and soul. But that’s an impossible task, so I am being as selective as it is possible.
There are 60 chapters in this book. Each chapter is just 2-3 pages long, but it's worth its weight in gold.
This is undoubtedly one of the most memorable books I’ve ever read. Thank you, Mr. Bond for sharing these pearls of wisdom with the world. I highly recommend The Golden Years–The Many Joys of Living a Good Long Life. It’s a book that everyone should read.
_________________________________________________
Connect with me on Twitter | Instagram | Blog and let’s talk BOOKS!!
This book is special to me for two reasons–First, of course, it is by a beloved author. And secondly, it is an autographed copy that I won as part of an Instagram giveaway.
In this book, Bond shares vignettes from his life, starting from early childhood days to the present. In the introductory note, the author states,
“This book is about growing old and liking it.”
This book is inspiring on so many levels. I paused often to ponder over the words, absorb their magic, and just contemplate on my journey. That’s the power of Bond’s writing.
To say I loved this book would be an understatement. One thing’s for sure, I would be returning to this book often, to seek guidance, to reflect, and to learn to enjoy life more fully.
I wish I could quote all the lines that stirred my heart and soul. But that’s an impossible task, so I am being as selective as it is possible.
There’s a certain joy in writing, in putting words down on paper and creating a story or a poem or a novel or even a memoir: and if no one else enjoys what you have composed, never mind, you have done it for yourself and your own pleasure.
Don’t wait for your birthday. make today your birthday.
Don’t put off your plans, your creative works, the project of your dreams. If you delay and prevaricate, they will fade away, become castles without foundation.
Avoid quarrelsome people. They vitiate the environment.
Better to welcome the approaching wind, become one with it, and allow it to take you where it will.
There are 60 chapters in this book. Each chapter is just 2-3 pages long, but it's worth its weight in gold.
This is undoubtedly one of the most memorable books I’ve ever read. Thank you, Mr. Bond for sharing these pearls of wisdom with the world. I highly recommend The Golden Years–The Many Joys of Living a Good Long Life. It’s a book that everyone should read.
_________________________________________________
Connect with me on Twitter | Instagram | Blog and let’s talk BOOKS!!
July 23, 2023
The sub-title kind of suggested how to live a long life which made me think that it would be journey to the golden years. But the writer that Ruskin Bond is - takes you by surprise by starting with something like so-what-if-you-are-sixty.
Thought it would be a single sitting read, and would have been till chapter 5, when something struck the 60+ year old me. Each chapter is small - one to two pages max - hence a lot has to be internalised as the narrative would leave much to imagine and leverage the past, present and what is still to come. So I slowed down.
It’s hard to review such a book - it has to be experienced, not so much as what happened in the past, but how to live the future a day at a time. There is no preaching here - just tune each part of the body to expect to what is up next, simply because it can be controlled by oneself. The idea of licking lollipops, grabbing an icecream, lazing around, seeing things happen around you - a total package on how to live a new life as one ages.
Typical of this master storyteller, there are events, emotions, joy, fun, humour and guess what, a teeny weeny bit of dark humour (in last paragraph of chapter 50 titled Laugh It Off). The last three chapters make the reader to start believing in the days to come in the golden years
As the author aptly wrote in the opener “So prepare for what is truly the best time of your life”, I simply felt “Why Stop”, “I’m on My Way”.
Thank you Mr Bond Sir - yet another jewel in your collection, just loved it.
Thought it would be a single sitting read, and would have been till chapter 5, when something struck the 60+ year old me. Each chapter is small - one to two pages max - hence a lot has to be internalised as the narrative would leave much to imagine and leverage the past, present and what is still to come. So I slowed down.
It’s hard to review such a book - it has to be experienced, not so much as what happened in the past, but how to live the future a day at a time. There is no preaching here - just tune each part of the body to expect to what is up next, simply because it can be controlled by oneself. The idea of licking lollipops, grabbing an icecream, lazing around, seeing things happen around you - a total package on how to live a new life as one ages.
Typical of this master storyteller, there are events, emotions, joy, fun, humour and guess what, a teeny weeny bit of dark humour (in last paragraph of chapter 50 titled Laugh It Off). The last three chapters make the reader to start believing in the days to come in the golden years
As the author aptly wrote in the opener “So prepare for what is truly the best time of your life”, I simply felt “Why Stop”, “I’m on My Way”.
Thank you Mr Bond Sir - yet another jewel in your collection, just loved it.
October 15, 2023
Ruskin Bond seems to be getting more prolific in his writing in his advancing years. The master author is nearing ninety and does not show any sign of slowing down. In his inimitable style, Ruskin has produced a sterling collection of 60 short essays which touches almost all the aspects of his long and productive life as an author par excellence.
In the foreword, Ruskin mentions that the short book is about growing old and liking it. Each of the delectable essays in this collection shows the boundless energy and zest for life that the author has. The hallmark of Ruskin’s writing is the simple, straightforward prose that he employs. His writing has the unique ability to put across lofty ideas in simple words and this is a gift that very few writers possess. It’s no wonder that Ruskin’s writing is adored by young and old alike.
The topics of the essays span the entire gamut of Ruskin’s life. There are delightful vignettes about his childhood as well as the lofty ideals that should be aimed for by any writer who aspires for success. He talks about the trees, the flowers, the mountains, the fruits and the beautiful meadows amongst which he spends his days. Often, the author laments about the world that has become a complex place with too much strife and hatred. He yearns for the carefree days of his childhood. At the same time, he gives priceless pearls of wisdom to help us live fulfilling lives just as he has done.
This book is to be cherished and should become part of the collection of any self-respecting book lover.
In the foreword, Ruskin mentions that the short book is about growing old and liking it. Each of the delectable essays in this collection shows the boundless energy and zest for life that the author has. The hallmark of Ruskin’s writing is the simple, straightforward prose that he employs. His writing has the unique ability to put across lofty ideas in simple words and this is a gift that very few writers possess. It’s no wonder that Ruskin’s writing is adored by young and old alike.
The topics of the essays span the entire gamut of Ruskin’s life. There are delightful vignettes about his childhood as well as the lofty ideals that should be aimed for by any writer who aspires for success. He talks about the trees, the flowers, the mountains, the fruits and the beautiful meadows amongst which he spends his days. Often, the author laments about the world that has become a complex place with too much strife and hatred. He yearns for the carefree days of his childhood. At the same time, he gives priceless pearls of wisdom to help us live fulfilling lives just as he has done.
This book is to be cherished and should become part of the collection of any self-respecting book lover.
October 11, 2023
Ruskin Bond is clearly India’s most well-known author. One who has regaled us with his stories, books and articles for as long as most of us can remember.
Now at a ripe age of 89, he has written this book, The Golden Years, as a way to share some snippets of wisdom from his passage through Planet Earth.
Structured as a series of really short stories, rather anecdotes, Mr Bond takes us through his life as a child and then a young adult, before getting to Landor where he sets up base for good. Each anecdote focuses on some memory which has carried through with him over the years and is linked to some aspect of how he has led his life. It could be about his father, who he lost rather early, his mother and step-father, the neighbours, some good Samaritan he came across in his life, or just about walking!
Given that the book is written by him in his golden years, it might seem a little silly to those who still haven’t seen enough of life to have the maturity to appreciate Mr Bond’s points. That will also be my excuse for rating this a bit below where many others have slotted it.
But before I do, I would like to quote the one comment which I think is the most powerful for me – “Laugh it off! That’s the best way to deal with an unkind remark, undeserved criticism or even a personal insult.”
Now at a ripe age of 89, he has written this book, The Golden Years, as a way to share some snippets of wisdom from his passage through Planet Earth.
Structured as a series of really short stories, rather anecdotes, Mr Bond takes us through his life as a child and then a young adult, before getting to Landor where he sets up base for good. Each anecdote focuses on some memory which has carried through with him over the years and is linked to some aspect of how he has led his life. It could be about his father, who he lost rather early, his mother and step-father, the neighbours, some good Samaritan he came across in his life, or just about walking!
Given that the book is written by him in his golden years, it might seem a little silly to those who still haven’t seen enough of life to have the maturity to appreciate Mr Bond’s points. That will also be my excuse for rating this a bit below where many others have slotted it.
But before I do, I would like to quote the one comment which I think is the most powerful for me – “Laugh it off! That’s the best way to deal with an unkind remark, undeserved criticism or even a personal insult.”
March 3, 2024
📚 Just finished reading "The Golden Years" by Ruskin Bond and I'm in awe of the beautiful storytelling and the way the author captures the essence of growing older
❤️. Each chapter of this collection is a gem, filled with warmth, humor, and a deep sense of longing for the past. Bond's love for nature and his ability to weave it into his narratives is truly magical. The way he paints the picturesque landscapes and the charm of small-town life is simply enchanting.
❤️The book takes us on a journey through the author's own golden years, filled with nostalgia, wisdom, and a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. It's a delightful read that warms the heart and leaves you with a sense of contentment.
❤️As someone who appreciates poignant, reflective writing, I found "The Golden Years" to be a captivating and deeply moving collection. It's a reminder to cherish the memories of the past while finding joy in the present. Bond's storytelling is as captivating as ever, and his ability to evoke the magic of the mountains and the charm of small-town life is truly enchanting.
❤️If you're a fan of Ruskin Bond's work or simply enjoy heartwarming stories that make you reflect on life, I highly recommend picking up "The Golden Years." It's a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. ✨📖
❤️. Each chapter of this collection is a gem, filled with warmth, humor, and a deep sense of longing for the past. Bond's love for nature and his ability to weave it into his narratives is truly magical. The way he paints the picturesque landscapes and the charm of small-town life is simply enchanting.
❤️The book takes us on a journey through the author's own golden years, filled with nostalgia, wisdom, and a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. It's a delightful read that warms the heart and leaves you with a sense of contentment.
❤️As someone who appreciates poignant, reflective writing, I found "The Golden Years" to be a captivating and deeply moving collection. It's a reminder to cherish the memories of the past while finding joy in the present. Bond's storytelling is as captivating as ever, and his ability to evoke the magic of the mountains and the charm of small-town life is truly enchanting.
❤️If you're a fan of Ruskin Bond's work or simply enjoy heartwarming stories that make you reflect on life, I highly recommend picking up "The Golden Years." It's a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. ✨📖
August 12, 2024
In his eighties, Ruskin Bond gifts us with "The Golden Years," a book rich with wisdom. It's a heartfelt collection of reflections from his earlier years, offering simple yet profound ideas on living a fulfilling life. Whether it's taking a nap, planting a seed, cherishing the good old days, reconnecting with an old friend, or learning to cook for ourselves, Bond reminds us to appreciate the small joys of life.
The book beautifully reiterates that aging is an inevitable process, one that should be embraced rather than feared. Bond, who lived in a world far removed from our technology-driven lives, has much to share from his experiences. He recalls moments like a gardener who worked for his family, being stranded in the mountains without food and the taste of a chapati and onion that saved him, the books he read, the movies he watched, the walks he took, and the trips he embarked on.
Each of the 60 essays in this collection serves as a micro-pill of happiness, joy, and wisdom, leaving the reader with a sense of momentum after finishing each one.
Two essays that particularly stand out (for me) are the ones on "Solitude" and "Loneliness." Bond masterfully differentiates between the two, exploring which one is needed, which is inevitable, and how to find joy in each when they occur.
Love, joy, wisdom, and happiness are the essence of this beautiful book.
The book beautifully reiterates that aging is an inevitable process, one that should be embraced rather than feared. Bond, who lived in a world far removed from our technology-driven lives, has much to share from his experiences. He recalls moments like a gardener who worked for his family, being stranded in the mountains without food and the taste of a chapati and onion that saved him, the books he read, the movies he watched, the walks he took, and the trips he embarked on.
Each of the 60 essays in this collection serves as a micro-pill of happiness, joy, and wisdom, leaving the reader with a sense of momentum after finishing each one.
Two essays that particularly stand out (for me) are the ones on "Solitude" and "Loneliness." Bond masterfully differentiates between the two, exploring which one is needed, which is inevitable, and how to find joy in each when they occur.
Love, joy, wisdom, and happiness are the essence of this beautiful book.
May 28, 2023
I, a young boy from extremely Orthodox Brahman family have studied in Dehradun from 1970 to 1974 and believe my innocence, while my friend asked me about ever hearing of Raskin Bond, I replied her " Yes, I have read two novels of that detective." It created a belly laughter even to that highly reserved girl. Later on I was posted at Dehradun ( as behaviour science faculty) for four years and read his book. Habitual of reading critical philosophical books, he appeared as too childish but now at the age of 66, I enjoy being a child while reading his books. I live in Haridwar and to me flow of Sacred Ganga and his writing are alike and give identical serenity. Regards to this great human being and hope to see many many such books. Amazing is the realization how identical we all are in our small desires, stubbornness which has so easily been identified and put in words by Raskin sir. Thanks for such a book I finished on priority otherwise I am habitual of reading six or more books at a time and take about one month to finish each of them.
July 12, 2024
Ruskin Bond is eighty-nine years long past sixty, the age at which one becomes a senior citizen; also the age around which it is said one should think of retiring from active life. As the years go by, his contentment with living the life he has chosen--keeping to himself, with his family and his books, in Landour--has only grown stronger. He takes great joy in the world outside his the changing shades of nature, interesting people, good food, nice walks. Inside his room there are thoughts and memories, and the journal and letters he writes every day. All of it makes for a wonderful life--and that is what this book is about. In his trademark warm, witty, whimsical style and his marvellously simple prose, Ruskin tells us how to enjoy the advancing years some of us are blessed with, and how to make the most of the amazing gift called life.
August 2, 2023
A beautiful autobiographical memoir, The Golden Years written by none other than our Ruskin Bond. It gives panoramic views of life an author who had already broken the monotony by taking risks in order to do what he intended to do.
I enjoyed the reading as I did for The Angry River and The Blue Umbrella. Your age and your pattern of writing are neither proportional nor inversely proportional. This book is the message for young folks and people who are retired/ing. Readers of all age strata have something or other to gain from this book. Its just a summation of life in the tailing end.
Looking forward more reading from Ruskin Bond
Keep Reading and Keep Walking!
Faith
Amol Nakve
December 14, 2023
#233
Book 74 of 2023- The Golden Years
Author- Ruskin Bond
“There isn’t a lot of time left,but that doesn’t matter.I take one day at a time,and once again I clear the decks (or rather my desk),take up a new pad and a new pen,and sing out:‘I’m on my way!”
Ruskin Bond,is now 89 years old, and he is still writing, he is still publishing books,when I think of how he is able to pull off this so effortlessly,the only answer I found is he always enjoys life, he always find joy in littlest of little things, he never stopped enjoying and that’s why he never stopped writing. He takes life as it is and enjoys “one day at a time”.
This book is all about his stories and wisdom about life. This book will help you find content in your life no matter what’s your age. It’s a wonderful life, but we keep missing out on small things by worrying about so many things,you can still make a wonderful life with all the worrying and even the loneliness, because life is a mix of everything.
Growing old is fun! Not everyone wants to grow old though. Even for me, the thought of growing old scares me a little. But, Ruskin bond is telling us through this book on how to enjoy life when you are growing old, and how to make the most of this amazing gift called life.
I found this book in the right time, that’s all I can say. I smiled a lot while reading this book and learnt a lot. Ruskin Bond is someone who lives his life to the fullest, there’s so much for everyone to learn from him. Read this and enjoy life a little extra!
Book 74 of 2023- The Golden Years
Author- Ruskin Bond
“There isn’t a lot of time left,but that doesn’t matter.I take one day at a time,and once again I clear the decks (or rather my desk),take up a new pad and a new pen,and sing out:‘I’m on my way!”
Ruskin Bond,is now 89 years old, and he is still writing, he is still publishing books,when I think of how he is able to pull off this so effortlessly,the only answer I found is he always enjoys life, he always find joy in littlest of little things, he never stopped enjoying and that’s why he never stopped writing. He takes life as it is and enjoys “one day at a time”.
This book is all about his stories and wisdom about life. This book will help you find content in your life no matter what’s your age. It’s a wonderful life, but we keep missing out on small things by worrying about so many things,you can still make a wonderful life with all the worrying and even the loneliness, because life is a mix of everything.
Growing old is fun! Not everyone wants to grow old though. Even for me, the thought of growing old scares me a little. But, Ruskin bond is telling us through this book on how to enjoy life when you are growing old, and how to make the most of this amazing gift called life.
I found this book in the right time, that’s all I can say. I smiled a lot while reading this book and learnt a lot. Ruskin Bond is someone who lives his life to the fullest, there’s so much for everyone to learn from him. Read this and enjoy life a little extra!
December 20, 2023
In this book, Ruskin bond shares his thoughts, experiences and events from his long-lived life, hoping that he will have even more. Reading these stories did change my perspective about old age and growing old from the viewing it as something negative to positive. From now on, I will gladly embrace the everyday that is being added to my life and the age that is increasing of my body.
Coming to Ruskin bond, he is the comfort I seek again and again. He is someone who transports me to another world through his stories and expands my world either from his thoughts and imagination or from his experiences. The writing prowess of Ruskin bond is unparalleled. Always love and love towards him.
Coming to Ruskin bond, he is the comfort I seek again and again. He is someone who transports me to another world through his stories and expands my world either from his thoughts and imagination or from his experiences. The writing prowess of Ruskin bond is unparalleled. Always love and love towards him.
June 17, 2023
This is a collection of vignettes cited by the 89 year old author from his life experience. The little things of life - humour, love, loneliness, fun etc. are brought out in the inimitable style of this beloved author. He essentially mentions that neither 60 nor 80 years should be considered as the end of life. People should live their life enjoying whatever each person likes e.g. reading, walking, travelling, singing etc. His love for books and reading is also brought out in several sections of the book. Reading these 152 pages was a very soothing experience!
July 9, 2023
I tend to like every book/story written by Ruskin bond as I adore and love his writing a lot.
But this one was emotional, now he is 89th he has lived his life at his own pace and is still singing the life song but it is emotional to read about it .. This book talks about the joy of getting old and how one can embrace his given life, the little things in life which matters a lot in our young age as well as old age.
Also, one should only fear dying without memories and experiences rather than getting old.
But this one was emotional, now he is 89th he has lived his life at his own pace and is still singing the life song but it is emotional to read about it .. This book talks about the joy of getting old and how one can embrace his given life, the little things in life which matters a lot in our young age as well as old age.
Also, one should only fear dying without memories and experiences rather than getting old.
November 2, 2023
A very simple book with each chapter consisting of only 2 pages but giving you the simple wisdom which we humans have forgotten. Things like getting up a bit early, investing time for reading, doing and making our own bed etc
Everything is laid down in the layman language and even though you may not have reached the golden age of your life, incorporating these habits from now on will get you the desired results to live a fulfilling life.
Of course the Ruskin Bond style of humor is omnipresent, so this book is a must one time read for sure.
Everything is laid down in the layman language and even though you may not have reached the golden age of your life, incorporating these habits from now on will get you the desired results to live a fulfilling life.
Of course the Ruskin Bond style of humor is omnipresent, so this book is a must one time read for sure.
September 22, 2025
Love is the best antidote for loneliness. But it's no use going out in search of it. Elusive as a butterfly, it will elude your grasp. Stay Still, and it might just settle on your hand.
No book would give me a greater pleasure than Ruskin Bond's warm collection of stories, whimsical tales, some life lessons scattered and of course- his simple and joyful prose. As I continue my journey to read as much of Bond's writing as I can, I find myself more motivated than ever...
September 18, 2023
This is not a book to be marked as completed. This is a book to be revisited like a jar of candy, just dip your hand in it and you are guaranteed to find a small toffee that will give you the sweetness you crave!
November 19, 2024
Really liked the book as it teaches that our life is valuable and much beyond our biological aging. One need to pause for a while , enjoy whatever valuable things, people, nature around you and do what gives you happiness, fulfilment and satisfaction.
May 12, 2025
My ever favorite author shares his cherishing memories right from childhood to his current life - nestled under the mountains, constantly in touch with the nature, his take on midnight snacking, walking, war and peace, humanity in general, and finally, being at peace with oneself.
May 17, 2025
Though this book is primarily meant for old people, I found it a comforting read. Ruskin Bond weaves together elements of nature, humour, and love, infusing a sense of warmth that resonates with the readers.
May 19, 2023
60 pieces of short writings by the author on growing old. Thought-provoking, funny, and witty makes the readers enjoy the writing.
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