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Ruskin Bond's Children's Omnibus
An illustrated book for children and adults alike, Ruskin Bond's Children's Omnibus is a collection of some of his classic stories. Most of these stories are set in the hills, but their appeal in universal.
This volume includes the ever - popular Grandfather's Private Zoo written over twenty-five years ago and a favorite with two generations of children; Angry River and the Blue Umbrella, both of which have children as protagonists; The Road to the Bazaar, Ghost Trouble, 'Cricket for the Crocodile' and 'Dust on the Mountain', which chronicle small - town life in Northern India.
These stories highlight the charm of simple living and are written in Ruskin Bond's witty and humorous style.
This volume includes the ever - popular Grandfather's Private Zoo written over twenty-five years ago and a favorite with two generations of children; Angry River and the Blue Umbrella, both of which have children as protagonists; The Road to the Bazaar, Ghost Trouble, 'Cricket for the Crocodile' and 'Dust on the Mountain', which chronicle small - town life in Northern India.
These stories highlight the charm of simple living and are written in Ruskin Bond's witty and humorous style.
327 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1995
138 people are currently reading
1612 people want to read
About the author
Ruskin Bond
680 books3,563 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 64 reviews
November 29, 2014
I read this before any other book. Even before Harry Potter. It took me for the first time in my life, at the age of 12 or so to the corners of my mind I had never discovered. Its the reason why I am a reader. Its the reason why I am able to write and access deeper in my part because this book taught me to reach out, to find something unknown, dark and scary, find courage and above all beauty. My favourite story is Angry River. Its a shame children arent as enthusiastic about Ruskin Bond books.
I am indebted to Ruskin Bond's words. I am indebted to my close friend and soul sister Poonkuzhali to have gifted me this book on my birthday. This book is like a arrow on fire launched into the universe. Its the proof that the good and innocent survive in corners of the world that no force can conquer.
I am indebted to Ruskin Bond's words. I am indebted to my close friend and soul sister Poonkuzhali to have gifted me this book on my birthday. This book is like a arrow on fire launched into the universe. Its the proof that the good and innocent survive in corners of the world that no force can conquer.
July 26, 2025
From 2013 to 2016, Ruskin Bond’s Children’s Omnibus, a 325 odd page tome, was more than just a Rapid Reader for my Class 9 students at DPS Bangalore—it was a ritual.
A soft gateway between grammar drills and adolescence, between the syllabus and the soul. I taught it year after year, and yet each batch brought out something new in its pages. That’s the magic of Bond, isn't it? You think you’re teaching The Thief, and then suddenly you’re discussing forgiveness with 14-year-olds who surprise you with depth.
Bond’s simplicity was never simplistic. Whether it was the mischievous Rusty, the fragile beauty of Doon Valley, or the moment of quiet reflection under a gulmohar tree—his writing met my students where they were, and somehow nudged them gently ahead. In class, we’d pause at sentences and just let them breathe. “Sir, how can something be happy and sad?” they’d ask. And I’d smile, knowing Bond was doing exactly what great writing should: stir the still water.
Over the years, that omnibus became our shared hill station—where even the most indifferent students found something to hold on to. It taught them (and me) that good stories don’t shout. They listen.
And when the bell rang, and the chapter ended, there was always a little more silence in the room. The kind that meant something had settled, softly.
A soft gateway between grammar drills and adolescence, between the syllabus and the soul. I taught it year after year, and yet each batch brought out something new in its pages. That’s the magic of Bond, isn't it? You think you’re teaching The Thief, and then suddenly you’re discussing forgiveness with 14-year-olds who surprise you with depth.
Bond’s simplicity was never simplistic. Whether it was the mischievous Rusty, the fragile beauty of Doon Valley, or the moment of quiet reflection under a gulmohar tree—his writing met my students where they were, and somehow nudged them gently ahead. In class, we’d pause at sentences and just let them breathe. “Sir, how can something be happy and sad?” they’d ask. And I’d smile, knowing Bond was doing exactly what great writing should: stir the still water.
Over the years, that omnibus became our shared hill station—where even the most indifferent students found something to hold on to. It taught them (and me) that good stories don’t shout. They listen.
And when the bell rang, and the chapter ended, there was always a little more silence in the room. The kind that meant something had settled, softly.
December 15, 2014
My first read of Ruskin Bond was in sixth standard when i borrowed a book from a friend of mine.
I remember that i immensely enjoyed the book back then. But on starting this book i didn't imagined that i will end up enjoying it way more than childhood days.
Fantastic read
I remember that i immensely enjoyed the book back then. But on starting this book i didn't imagined that i will end up enjoying it way more than childhood days.
Fantastic read
May 3, 2014
When reading Ruskin Bond's stories you feel as though you are taking a small trip along with the characters. You'll feel yourself chasing the blue umbrella with Bindya, you'll imagine yourself watching Nakoo the crocodile from the banks along with the cricket playing children, ride the lorry in Dust on the mountains etc. His stories are simple and sweet and bring to mind nostalgic days spent in villages as children, stealing fruit, playing together and running barefoot. His stories can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Recommended for a light hearted read between heavy books or if you just want to curl up and soak in some nostalgia.
Recommended for a light hearted read between heavy books or if you just want to curl up and soak in some nostalgia.
April 12, 2010
A compilation of short stories and such, The Ruskin Bond children's Omnibus is an enticing read. Vivid details of Indian village life come to life with the sagas of The Blue Umbrella and The river. Bond does not fail to entertain the reader with such witty stories such as Cricket for the Crocodile. This book is a compilation of short stories but yet, Bond makes these moments last forever. It is a memorable read and definitely worth reading.
June 22, 2012
One of the best by Mr. Ruskin Bond. Completely enamoured by the book! A valuable possession, spectacular read providing stories that we could relish our whole lives. I am a great Fan of the author & this one is feather in the cap of the various books i hold. A must read for everyone who want to relinquish their childhoods.
July 9, 2013
I read this book first as a twelve year old, and have lost count of the number of times I have re-read it. I think capturing the experience of childhood without sinking into sentimentality is not easy - which Ruskin Bond manages in this book ( and many of his others') with deceptive simplicity.
August 9, 2010
an excellent collection of stories, my favourite is(no prizes for guessing)'my grandfather's zoo'. other than that 'dust on the mountains' and 'the blue umbrella' were briliant
December 2, 2014
A delightful set of stories in Bond's signature style, some of them funny, some bittersweet. Aimed at children but enjoyable by adults as well.
March 28, 2012
this was a great book. thoroughly enjoyed it. my favourite was - the road to the bazaar
May 11, 2021
‘It isn’t time that’s passing by, It is you and I.’
Children’s Omnibus I, is a collection of his beloved short stories which have been published numerous times in many books and magazines. More so, even puffin books went on to release separate chapter wise illustrated books on these stories. He indeed has a special bond with children that he writes them about so much. Stories so vigorous and vivid, as colorful as the rainbow that we can’t stop talking and praising about them.
Well, I also looked up for the word ‘Omnibus’ on internet and found out it refers to a large book that contains several other books previously published separately, for example novels by the same author or many books on the same topic which is in the case of Ruskin Bond Children’s Omnibus.
Bond has always been a children’s writer. He has written numerous stories for children in his life, sweet and quirky, horror and innovative, every genre you can think of. All of tales touch your heart, making you feel more loved than ever. Love always finds its way if you choose to find it. From watching a movie with your family on a TV set together to having a video chat with your long-distance friends can brighten up your day. Bond makes it sure you cherish the smallest moments in your life to make your life larger than ever.
He has been writing children stories on the hill for three decades and never failed us to amaze with his comic timings and his never-ending creativity.
Bond had a special vicinity for animals since his childhood only due to the fact that his grandfather maintained a Private Zoo in his house. Tales of Toto the monkey, nana the Donkey, henry the chameleon, Harold the Hornbill, smoky python, his adventures with Sarus Cranes, buffaloes and frogs in a nearby pool, spending summer days with Myna, jungle crows, squirrels, Caesar -the anti - social Crow are all beautifully in Grandfather's Private Zoo.
Two additional stories, one of his Grandmothers old black and white photograph found by Bond and then her describing the colors and recollecting her memories of the old picture; other one was Bond week spent in a jungle with his Uncle henry.
Another story pertained to a friendly Pret, or perhaps a ghostly apparition living on a Peepul tree troubling his family in his childhood days and doing all sorts of mischief.
I have read these stories many times as standalone books or some stories included in his other works and reviewed them separately there. You may find it in links attached below:
Cricket for the Crocodile
The Blue Umbrella
Angry River
The Road To The Bazaar
Dust on the mountain
Children’s Omnibus I, is a collection of his beloved short stories which have been published numerous times in many books and magazines. More so, even puffin books went on to release separate chapter wise illustrated books on these stories. He indeed has a special bond with children that he writes them about so much. Stories so vigorous and vivid, as colorful as the rainbow that we can’t stop talking and praising about them.
Well, I also looked up for the word ‘Omnibus’ on internet and found out it refers to a large book that contains several other books previously published separately, for example novels by the same author or many books on the same topic which is in the case of Ruskin Bond Children’s Omnibus.
Bond has always been a children’s writer. He has written numerous stories for children in his life, sweet and quirky, horror and innovative, every genre you can think of. All of tales touch your heart, making you feel more loved than ever. Love always finds its way if you choose to find it. From watching a movie with your family on a TV set together to having a video chat with your long-distance friends can brighten up your day. Bond makes it sure you cherish the smallest moments in your life to make your life larger than ever.
He has been writing children stories on the hill for three decades and never failed us to amaze with his comic timings and his never-ending creativity.
Bond had a special vicinity for animals since his childhood only due to the fact that his grandfather maintained a Private Zoo in his house. Tales of Toto the monkey, nana the Donkey, henry the chameleon, Harold the Hornbill, smoky python, his adventures with Sarus Cranes, buffaloes and frogs in a nearby pool, spending summer days with Myna, jungle crows, squirrels, Caesar -the anti - social Crow are all beautifully in Grandfather's Private Zoo.
Two additional stories, one of his Grandmothers old black and white photograph found by Bond and then her describing the colors and recollecting her memories of the old picture; other one was Bond week spent in a jungle with his Uncle henry.
Another story pertained to a friendly Pret, or perhaps a ghostly apparition living on a Peepul tree troubling his family in his childhood days and doing all sorts of mischief.
I have read these stories many times as standalone books or some stories included in his other works and reviewed them separately there. You may find it in links attached below:
Cricket for the Crocodile
The Blue Umbrella
Angry River
The Road To The Bazaar
Dust on the mountain
December 26, 2018
Reading this book was like spending a day on the hills of Mussoorie. This book is filled with heart warming stories from 'Angry River' to 'Dust on the Mountain', Ruskin Bond has written these stories almost effortlessly. Bond's way of expressing emotions and his description of nature is really fantastic. Reading this book will surely take you back to your childhood, when everything was beautiful and life was nothing but a fairytale.
Although all the stories were wonderful, if I had to pick a favourite I would pick 'Ghost Trouble'. Normally I have read about malevolent ghosts, but reading about a humorous ghost was even better. Reading about a prankster of a ghost and his day to day rounds of mischief was really good. But one story that touched me, was 'The Blue Umbrella'. I had heard that it was Bond's best story, and I was lucky enough to read it. Sometimes reading about simple things that many may not find important, is a good of reminding us how fortunate we are. This book surely proves why Ruskin Bond is the best author and story teller in India. If you have never read any of Ruskin Bonds stories, than this is the book for you!
Although all the stories were wonderful, if I had to pick a favourite I would pick 'Ghost Trouble'. Normally I have read about malevolent ghosts, but reading about a humorous ghost was even better. Reading about a prankster of a ghost and his day to day rounds of mischief was really good. But one story that touched me, was 'The Blue Umbrella'. I had heard that it was Bond's best story, and I was lucky enough to read it. Sometimes reading about simple things that many may not find important, is a good of reminding us how fortunate we are. This book surely proves why Ruskin Bond is the best author and story teller in India. If you have never read any of Ruskin Bonds stories, than this is the book for you!
November 20, 2020
A collection of simple stories for children. A welcome change from the current stories that are more fantastic than real.
January 22, 2022
Nice one
August 20, 2012
This is the first ever Ruskin Bond book I have read. And I wonder why I have not read any of his books till now. I would say he was an Indian Enid Blyton , but I understand the difference between now. The omnibus had some of his short novels or novellas. I especially liked the Blue Umbrella- the story of the village girl who trades her lucky charm for a pretty blue umbrella from a tourist couple- the umbrella which makes her the envy of the whole village. Ruskin Bond writes simple stories, beautiful from an era I can only imagine. Maybe My father’s time? Reminded me of my childhood. Remembered the time I stole guavas from Pathu uncle’s tree and him coming home to give me a whole bag of guavas after catching me, The time I climbed the tree near our home and made it my temporary home, the time the lady in the small shop in my native place kept 5 cylindrical fryams placed in all my fingers like extra-large ,salty and oily huge rings but strangely extremely tasty at that time.
The stories were very sweet and very simple. The language was simpler still. Do you know one important thing I realized when I was reading the story “the Blue Umbrella”? I was waiting for something to go wrong. I was so used to things always going wrong, that every time I turned a page, I expected something bad to happen. I realized how defensive we have become. It was a great lesson for me. It is a beautiful book. If you want to relax , if you want to go back to your childhood, if you want to go back to the simpler times, yes , this is the book for you. Really really recommend it to everyone. A perfect gift for a niece or nephew or your child.
The stories were very sweet and very simple. The language was simpler still. Do you know one important thing I realized when I was reading the story “the Blue Umbrella”? I was waiting for something to go wrong. I was so used to things always going wrong, that every time I turned a page, I expected something bad to happen. I realized how defensive we have become. It was a great lesson for me. It is a beautiful book. If you want to relax , if you want to go back to your childhood, if you want to go back to the simpler times, yes , this is the book for you. Really really recommend it to everyone. A perfect gift for a niece or nephew or your child.
March 14, 2014
Sometimes you need a place where things are calm and peaceful.
This book a wonderful collection of short stories with a pleasant setting and simple events put together wonderfully.
People who have spent at-least some time in a rural setting can really relate to the characters and the way of life. This book provides a peek into a wonderful world that was childhood.
This book a wonderful collection of short stories with a pleasant setting and simple events put together wonderfully.
People who have spent at-least some time in a rural setting can really relate to the characters and the way of life. This book provides a peek into a wonderful world that was childhood.
Read
April 15, 2014Ummm... I read this book back in 2007. An old edition , And I still remember the fact that around that time, I was so very obssesed with Ruskin bond and his writing that I was making plans for my secret escapade to Dehra. I was 12 then; and the stories engaged me like anything.
A Job Well Done was my favourite partly because i never had guts to do what Dhunki did.
A Job Well Done was my favourite partly because i never had guts to do what Dhunki did.
May 9, 2011
The book contains little bundles of excitement in the plain and simple short stories. And its not just for children.
March 21, 2012
Loved it! Ruskin Bond's books have an amazing charm!!! =)
November 4, 2012
Good collection.
I keep coming back to it as if it is a reference book. :)
Nice font size in this edition.
I keep coming back to it as if it is a reference book. :)
Nice font size in this edition.
Read
July 13, 2013Such an amazing writing just loving it......
September 7, 2013
excellent
June 28, 2014
I JUST FINISHED IT IT WAS NICE IT IS MUST A READ
July 25, 2014
good book.Recommended for reading.On the back ground of rural india, Ruskin tell the story of children and their world.
September 12, 2014
stuff my childhood dreams were made of
April 23, 2017
Such childhood and summer feels. And Grandfather's Private Zoo is pure delight!
September 24, 2008
there are many stories in this book
February 18, 2014
good part of my summer holidays were spent with these stories. Simple yet deep short stories :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews