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Delhi: A Nature Journal
This nature journal of Delhi by Anuradha Kumar-Jain follows the changing seasons as they play out day after day in an uncompromisingly urban landscape. Delhi, while lying in the tropics, is sufficiently distant from the equator to enjoy largely distinct seasons, each of which brings with it its own flavour—from the golden cascades of laburnum in summer to the indigo skies of monsoon, the riotous blooms of winter and the nesting birds of spring. Life and nature thrive everywhere; birds sing, trees burst into new leaves, flowers bloom, butterflies flutter by, clouds scud across the sky; each at their own pace and at their appointed hour, as if keeping time with some unsung melody. This book urges the reader to stop, listen, observe and maybe even reconnect with this magical performance that is enacted everywhere, every day, even in a bustling metropolis like Delhi. It is a reminder that nature is all around us; in the chirping of house sparrows, nostalgia of petrichor, fragrance of jasmine on sultry evenings, fluttering down of leaves in March. It is our oft-neglected friend, our haven of tranquillity. The beautiful illustrations by Bahaar Meera Jain bring alive Anuradha’s highly evocative nature writing. A Nature Journal could be cathartic even, if only we were to pause and let our surroundings calm us, heal us.
240 pages, Paperback
Published August 8, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
August 25, 2024
"Delhi: “A Nature Journal ” by “Anuradha Kumar-Jain” is an emotive and reflective documentation of nature in the midst of the burgeoning urban sprawl of Delhi. It is not just a nature journal but a poetic interpretation of the seasons of a city and how it interacts with the world it inhabits.
The book divides itself into a year’s events, neatly outlining the changes in the season in terms of the observer’s verse. The book presents each season as a separate entity, trying to depict the mood and the spirit of the Delhi weather. The summer’s golden laburnum cascades, the monsoon’s indigo skies, the winter’s riotous blooms, and the spring’s avian serenades are rendered with a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for nature’s subtleties. Her writing is imbued with a lyrical quality, transforming the mundane into the magnificent and encouraging readers to view their environment through a more appreciative and discerning lens. It encourages a sort of self-reflection to get back to a long-lost friend, nature is there, in the piping of house sparrows, the missing petrichor, jasmine in the evening and the whispering leaves in spring.
The illustrations done by Bahaar Meera Jain are a necessity complement in relation to the text. They are not merely decorative but integral to the book's impact. Every picture supplements the elaborate descriptions of the author, turning the book into an artistic composition that exploits a reader’s sense. This is in view of the fact that the colors used in the artwork and the design details contain an allure that can complement the rhetoric strength of the text in the engagement of the reader.
In conclusion, it is more than a book; it is a meditation on the intrinsic beauty that exists within the fabric of everyday life. It challenges readers to step away from the frenetic pace of modern existence and reconnect with the serene rhythms of nature. The fusion of her reflective writing with the illustrator's evocative illustrations creates a compelling narrative that is both visually and intellectually stimulating. This book serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder of the quiet splendor that can be found in the most unexpected manner.
The book divides itself into a year’s events, neatly outlining the changes in the season in terms of the observer’s verse. The book presents each season as a separate entity, trying to depict the mood and the spirit of the Delhi weather. The summer’s golden laburnum cascades, the monsoon’s indigo skies, the winter’s riotous blooms, and the spring’s avian serenades are rendered with a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for nature’s subtleties. Her writing is imbued with a lyrical quality, transforming the mundane into the magnificent and encouraging readers to view their environment through a more appreciative and discerning lens. It encourages a sort of self-reflection to get back to a long-lost friend, nature is there, in the piping of house sparrows, the missing petrichor, jasmine in the evening and the whispering leaves in spring.
The illustrations done by Bahaar Meera Jain are a necessity complement in relation to the text. They are not merely decorative but integral to the book's impact. Every picture supplements the elaborate descriptions of the author, turning the book into an artistic composition that exploits a reader’s sense. This is in view of the fact that the colors used in the artwork and the design details contain an allure that can complement the rhetoric strength of the text in the engagement of the reader.
In conclusion, it is more than a book; it is a meditation on the intrinsic beauty that exists within the fabric of everyday life. It challenges readers to step away from the frenetic pace of modern existence and reconnect with the serene rhythms of nature. The fusion of her reflective writing with the illustrator's evocative illustrations creates a compelling narrative that is both visually and intellectually stimulating. This book serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder of the quiet splendor that can be found in the most unexpected manner.
September 2, 2024
Delhi: A Nature Journal by Anuradha Kumar-Jain is a captivating tribute to the ever-changing seasons within an urban setting, where nature's beauty unfolds amidst the hustle and bustle of Delhi. Kumar-Jain takes readers on a poetic journey through the city's distinct seasons—each with its own charm. From the golden cascades of laburnum in the scorching summer to the indigo-hued skies of the monsoon, the riotous blooms of winter, and the gentle nesting of birds in spring, the book beautifully encapsulates the essence of Delhi's natural rhythm.
This book does more than just narrate; it invites the reader to pause, observe, and reconnect with the world around them. Kumar-Jain's evocative prose serves as a gentle reminder that even in the busiest of cities, nature is an ever-present companion, offering solace in the chirping of house sparrows, the fragrant jasmine on a sultry evening, or the nostalgic scent of petrichor after the first rain.
The visual beauty of the book is just as compelling as its content. The cover is a masterpiece, drawing the reader in with its depiction of Delhi's natural splendor. Inside, the colored edges and Bahaar Meera Jain's exquisite illustrations bring the text to life, making each page a feast for the eyes. The inside of the cover, with its intricate design, mirrors the book's theme of discovering beauty in the details, much like the real aesthetic charm of Delhi.
Reading Delhi: A Nature Journal feels like skimming through the heart of the city itself, where every page offers a new discovery. This book is a reminder that amidst the urban chaos, nature thrives, offering moments of calm and healing to those who take the time to notice. It is a celebration of the subtle, often overlooked beauty that surrounds us, making it not just a book but a sensory experience—wholesome, immersive, and profoundly moving.
#readwithak #delhianaturejournal #bookstagram #bookish #bookandcoffee #book
This book does more than just narrate; it invites the reader to pause, observe, and reconnect with the world around them. Kumar-Jain's evocative prose serves as a gentle reminder that even in the busiest of cities, nature is an ever-present companion, offering solace in the chirping of house sparrows, the fragrant jasmine on a sultry evening, or the nostalgic scent of petrichor after the first rain.
The visual beauty of the book is just as compelling as its content. The cover is a masterpiece, drawing the reader in with its depiction of Delhi's natural splendor. Inside, the colored edges and Bahaar Meera Jain's exquisite illustrations bring the text to life, making each page a feast for the eyes. The inside of the cover, with its intricate design, mirrors the book's theme of discovering beauty in the details, much like the real aesthetic charm of Delhi.
Reading Delhi: A Nature Journal feels like skimming through the heart of the city itself, where every page offers a new discovery. This book is a reminder that amidst the urban chaos, nature thrives, offering moments of calm and healing to those who take the time to notice. It is a celebration of the subtle, often overlooked beauty that surrounds us, making it not just a book but a sensory experience—wholesome, immersive, and profoundly moving.
#readwithak #delhianaturejournal #bookstagram #bookish #bookandcoffee #book
October 20, 2024
Delhi: A Nature Journal offers a refreshing perspective on the vibrant city of Delhi, focusing on its often-overlooked natural beauty. The book is a poetic exploration of the changing seasons within an urban landscape. Through detailed descriptions of flora, fauna and seasonal transitions the author encourages an appreciation of the environment that surrounds us even in a bustling metropolis like Delhi.
The structure of the book is cleverly divided by months from January to December, giving a thorough account of Delhi’s five distinct seasons—winter, spring, summer, monsoon and autumn. Although spring and autumn are brief, the author captures their fleeting beauty with keen attention to detail. Each chapter seamlessly blends personal observations with factual information, inviting readers to pause and reconnect with the natural world.
What makes this journal truly captivating are the accompanying illustrations which complement the text and spark the reader's imagination. Whether describing the vibrant blooms of winter flowers, the scorching summer heat or the enchanting light of Delhi’s late evenings the author succeeds in portraying the city in a completely new light -one where nature thrives even in the most unexpected corners.
The journal also celebrates Delhi’s rich cultural heritage intertwining the natural landscape with the city’s history and festivals. The author’s personal anecdotes like witnessing the golden hue of winter sunlight streaming into a café add warmth and intimacy to the narrative
The structure of the book is cleverly divided by months from January to December, giving a thorough account of Delhi’s five distinct seasons—winter, spring, summer, monsoon and autumn. Although spring and autumn are brief, the author captures their fleeting beauty with keen attention to detail. Each chapter seamlessly blends personal observations with factual information, inviting readers to pause and reconnect with the natural world.
What makes this journal truly captivating are the accompanying illustrations which complement the text and spark the reader's imagination. Whether describing the vibrant blooms of winter flowers, the scorching summer heat or the enchanting light of Delhi’s late evenings the author succeeds in portraying the city in a completely new light -one where nature thrives even in the most unexpected corners.
The journal also celebrates Delhi’s rich cultural heritage intertwining the natural landscape with the city’s history and festivals. The author’s personal anecdotes like witnessing the golden hue of winter sunlight streaming into a café add warmth and intimacy to the narrative
September 10, 2024
This book is a gentle journey through the natural world around Delhi, offering a smooth and calming read that deeply connects with the reader. Author shares her everyday experiences with changing seasons—capturing the magical sounds, the touch of plants, the beauty of new leaves, and the presence of birds.
What I truly appreciate is the author's dedication throughout . In a city as busy and bustling as Delhi, with its endless traffic and urban sprawl, finding solace in nature feels like a form of meditation and calmness in & out.
This book is made even more special by the beautiful artwork of Bahaar Meera Jain. Her vibrant and stunning illustrations take the experience to another level, making the book not just a collection of thoughts, but a visual delight as well.
Additionally, loving quotes /poetry scattered throughout the book, add depth and invite you to pause and reflect. If you have a love for nature and seek something that brings peace and joy, this book will resonate with you deeply. Grab it , you will definitely enjoy your leisure time.
What I truly appreciate is the author's dedication throughout . In a city as busy and bustling as Delhi, with its endless traffic and urban sprawl, finding solace in nature feels like a form of meditation and calmness in & out.
This book is made even more special by the beautiful artwork of Bahaar Meera Jain. Her vibrant and stunning illustrations take the experience to another level, making the book not just a collection of thoughts, but a visual delight as well.
Additionally, loving quotes /poetry scattered throughout the book, add depth and invite you to pause and reflect. If you have a love for nature and seek something that brings peace and joy, this book will resonate with you deeply. Grab it , you will definitely enjoy your leisure time.
September 8, 2024
Delhi: A Nature Journal by Anuradha Kumar-Jain is a breathtaking exploration of the city’s hidden natural wonders through the seasons. Picture this: the golden laburnum cascading in summer, the monsoon skies painted in deep indigo, winter’s vibrant blooms, and the lively chatter of spring’s nesting birds, all weaving through Delhi’s urban fabric.
Kumar-Jain’s vivid writing isn’t just a glimpse into nature’s splendour but a call to pause and rediscover the magic around us. Have you ever stopped to savour the chirping sparrows, the nostalgic petrichor after a downpour, the jasmine's fragrance on a sultry evening, or the gentle flutter of leaves in March?
Enhanced by Bahaar Meera Jain’s captivating illustrations, this journal transforms each moment into a visual and emotional delight. Delhi: A Nature Journal is more than a book; it’s a powerful reminder to reconnect with the often-overlooked beauty in our bustling lives. Ready to see your city with new eyes?
Kumar-Jain’s vivid writing isn’t just a glimpse into nature’s splendour but a call to pause and rediscover the magic around us. Have you ever stopped to savour the chirping sparrows, the nostalgic petrichor after a downpour, the jasmine's fragrance on a sultry evening, or the gentle flutter of leaves in March?
Enhanced by Bahaar Meera Jain’s captivating illustrations, this journal transforms each moment into a visual and emotional delight. Delhi: A Nature Journal is more than a book; it’s a powerful reminder to reconnect with the often-overlooked beauty in our bustling lives. Ready to see your city with new eyes?
October 8, 2024
-Finding nature in a city-
Review of "Delhi: A Nature Journal" By @anuradhakumar
If I were to ask you five things you associate with Delhi, nature probably wouldn't make it to top 5. Kumar-Jain however has captured the different colours of changing seasons across the park and nature spcaes in the capital of India.
Decorated with eye-catching illustrations and art, Delhi: A nature journal is a love letter to Delhi. You've to be truly in love with the city that regularly makes it to the most polluted cities not only in the country but all across the world.
Strewn with poetry from Dickens, Byron and Tagore, this book attempts to capture the changing seasons in the bustling metropolis. The nature journal kickstarts with the winters on the first of January. The author goes on bird watching from one spot to another. There is a poignant paragraph where she spots a bird nest at a precarious spot, only to see it go missing after a week.
Read this if you are a Delhi person
Review of "Delhi: A Nature Journal" By @anuradhakumar
If I were to ask you five things you associate with Delhi, nature probably wouldn't make it to top 5. Kumar-Jain however has captured the different colours of changing seasons across the park and nature spcaes in the capital of India.
Decorated with eye-catching illustrations and art, Delhi: A nature journal is a love letter to Delhi. You've to be truly in love with the city that regularly makes it to the most polluted cities not only in the country but all across the world.
Strewn with poetry from Dickens, Byron and Tagore, this book attempts to capture the changing seasons in the bustling metropolis. The nature journal kickstarts with the winters on the first of January. The author goes on bird watching from one spot to another. There is a poignant paragraph where she spots a bird nest at a precarious spot, only to see it go missing after a week.
Read this if you are a Delhi person
July 29, 2025
A fitting tribute to Delhi and the greenery that encompasses it, featuring some very amazing illustrations by Bahaar Meera Jain.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews