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A Song of India: The year I went away
- GenresNonfiction
115 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2020
1 person is currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Ruskin Bond
681 books3,565 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 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 3, 2020
'A Song of India' is the next installment in a series of memoirs by our very own Ruskin Bond. It talks about his days before he left India, days spent tutoring, exploring the city and writing (lots of writing). His rather impulsive nature, his passion for writing, the initial money orders and the party with friends, it's all in there, waiting to be read.
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Just like any other book by Bond, this has the familiar feel of comfort. His witty side shines more than once, making us chuckle, especially during all kinds of crisis he found himself in, as a child. The writing is accompanied with gorgeous illustrations that makes it all the more enjoyable.
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On a personal note, I had the chance to meet Ruskin Bond earlier this year (yeah, the only highlight of my year) and he gives such warm and dizzy vibes. As i read this book, I could feel myself imagine this child and the adult he grew up into. And it just made me happy, the soothing kind. Ruskin Bond will always feel like home to me.
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Just like any other book by Bond, this has the familiar feel of comfort. His witty side shines more than once, making us chuckle, especially during all kinds of crisis he found himself in, as a child. The writing is accompanied with gorgeous illustrations that makes it all the more enjoyable.
.
On a personal note, I had the chance to meet Ruskin Bond earlier this year (yeah, the only highlight of my year) and he gives such warm and dizzy vibes. As i read this book, I could feel myself imagine this child and the adult he grew up into. And it just made me happy, the soothing kind. Ruskin Bond will always feel like home to me.
June 19, 2022
The sequel to Coming Round The Mountain, A Song Of India contains tales from the time before young Ruskin embarks on his journey to England to pursue his dreams.
Young Ruskin is sixteen and is back home to Dehradun from his final year at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla. He is living with his mother and stepfather Hari at the Old Station Canteen in Dehradun due to his stepfather's uncertainty in his business of old cars. Ruskin is trying to write and make money out of it by submitting it to certain magazines and newspapers. Certain magazines accept his writings and pay him for the same which young Ruskin spends with friends the very same day. We get to witness the coming of his book the room on the roof. We also get to witness his love interest with whom he used to enjoy playing badminton. Our 16 year old Ruskin also ends up teaching a class of three people which made a hilarious tale. There are a few more enjoyable stories which make this collection unique to me.
There were stories in this book I hadn't read before and were very very interesting to me. Certain reminders from The Room On The Roof flashed in my mind and made me feel very nostalgic since it was the first book by Ruskin Bond I had read years back.
I found the writing in this book was very fresh, the information was very fresh and new to me. Listen To Your Heart is the sequel to this title. I’m very glad @penguinsters organised this readathon for it gave me a chance to read these books again. Also, @artofmihir has done such a wonderful job illustrating these books; our Rusty looks so dashing. ❤️
Young Ruskin is sixteen and is back home to Dehradun from his final year at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla. He is living with his mother and stepfather Hari at the Old Station Canteen in Dehradun due to his stepfather's uncertainty in his business of old cars. Ruskin is trying to write and make money out of it by submitting it to certain magazines and newspapers. Certain magazines accept his writings and pay him for the same which young Ruskin spends with friends the very same day. We get to witness the coming of his book the room on the roof. We also get to witness his love interest with whom he used to enjoy playing badminton. Our 16 year old Ruskin also ends up teaching a class of three people which made a hilarious tale. There are a few more enjoyable stories which make this collection unique to me.
There were stories in this book I hadn't read before and were very very interesting to me. Certain reminders from The Room On The Roof flashed in my mind and made me feel very nostalgic since it was the first book by Ruskin Bond I had read years back.
I found the writing in this book was very fresh, the information was very fresh and new to me. Listen To Your Heart is the sequel to this title. I’m very glad @penguinsters organised this readathon for it gave me a chance to read these books again. Also, @artofmihir has done such a wonderful job illustrating these books; our Rusty looks so dashing. ❤️
September 1, 2020
I picked up this book as part of the #discoveringindiareadathon. A Song of India is the next installment in the series of memoirs by my beloved writer Ruskin Bond. This book talks about his days before he left India and how he spent his days. The book chronicles that year when he spent with his family in Dehra and his journey as a writer. The book beautiful pictorial depictions illustrated by Mihir Joglekar about writer’s tutoring days, his exploration of the city and his budding romance with Raj; his friend’s sister.
Just like any other book by Bond this book is a perfect pick to curl up in a corner with a warm cuppa and seek comfort in these accounts. I had my moments of happiness while visualizing this writer’s journey and his witty side shines more than once in these brilliant accounts. The plain but subtle illustrations make the reading experience very enjoyable.
Bond’s writing has always been very soothing. Every time I read his books; I am taken back to that pleasant memory lane where I travelled all the way to Landour to meet this brilliant writer. His books have always occupied a special place in my heart and they will dwell for eternity.
Just like any other book by Bond this book is a perfect pick to curl up in a corner with a warm cuppa and seek comfort in these accounts. I had my moments of happiness while visualizing this writer’s journey and his witty side shines more than once in these brilliant accounts. The plain but subtle illustrations make the reading experience very enjoyable.
Bond’s writing has always been very soothing. Every time I read his books; I am taken back to that pleasant memory lane where I travelled all the way to Landour to meet this brilliant writer. His books have always occupied a special place in my heart and they will dwell for eternity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2020
When I need a break from endless screen-time for work, I just curl up with a good book ♥️
And I couldn’t have found a better treat today than “A Song of India: The Year I Went Away” by Ruskin Bond!
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This is the 4th instalment in his autobiographical series for children, and is set in Dehradun in the year 1951, after he graduated from school and before he left for England.
Bond beautifully captures the age of 16/17- a time of growth, friendship, first loves and freedom.
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Though written for children, the book’s relatability will appeal to everyone. I devoured it in one single sitting and it moved me to tears. I could identify with every subject he touched on, most of all his passion for writing. The illustrations are wonderful and make it an easy and engaging read. You must pick this gem for your children, or for yourself!
And I couldn’t have found a better treat today than “A Song of India: The Year I Went Away” by Ruskin Bond!
-
This is the 4th instalment in his autobiographical series for children, and is set in Dehradun in the year 1951, after he graduated from school and before he left for England.
Bond beautifully captures the age of 16/17- a time of growth, friendship, first loves and freedom.
-
Though written for children, the book’s relatability will appeal to everyone. I devoured it in one single sitting and it moved me to tears. I could identify with every subject he touched on, most of all his passion for writing. The illustrations are wonderful and make it an easy and engaging read. You must pick this gem for your children, or for yourself!
August 18, 2020
There are a few things that give me comfort and happiness, like a nicely made warm cup of tea, cozy and warm blanket, cuddling up with my furry baby, and writings by Ruskin Bond.
The fourth book in the series of his memoirs, the author takes us to a quieter and greener Dehradun, sharing stories of his first earning through writings, being a tutor, happy times he had spend with friends, his first crush...filled with laidback yet beautiful illustrations by Mihir Joglekar transported me to the summer of 50s and wander around with young Bond. That couple of hours of reading this book had been a great escape from my daily mundane routine.
The fourth book in the series of his memoirs, the author takes us to a quieter and greener Dehradun, sharing stories of his first earning through writings, being a tutor, happy times he had spend with friends, his first crush...filled with laidback yet beautiful illustrations by Mihir Joglekar transported me to the summer of 50s and wander around with young Bond. That couple of hours of reading this book had been a great escape from my daily mundane routine.
June 3, 2024
Finally, I got and read 'A Song of India'- the fourth book in the series of memoirs that are illustrated beautifully by Mihir Joglekar. As always, it is with Ruskin Bond books, it's a feel-good book. The first book in the series, 'Looking for the Rainbow' was about a kid, Ruskin's two wonderful years with his father. The second book in the series, 'Till the Clouds Roll by' was about his adjustment to a new life in Dehra, during winter vacation, with his mom and step-dad, and making some unusual friends. The third book in the series, 'Coming Round the Mountain,' was about his wonderful final year in boarding school. And now, he has presented his life in writing as a sixteen year old youth.
"Sixteen! What a wonderful age to be. It comes only once in a lifetime... Treasure it, remember it, hold it close to your bosom."
No matter how many times, in how many different ways, and in how many different books you read about Ruskin Bond's life incidents, they always appear fresh whenever he writes it once again. This book shows Ruskin, the future writer, in the becoming. The incidents mentioned in this book are the ones that had made the base of his most memorable first book 'The Room on the Roof. It was the journal entries of this period that he turned into a novel. So this book is as special for his fans as for him. The ease with which he writes everything is just amazing. It is such a kind of book that you want to keep close to you every time. I hope he keeps on writing more memoirs in this series.
"Sixteen! What a wonderful age to be. It comes only once in a lifetime... Treasure it, remember it, hold it close to your bosom."
No matter how many times, in how many different ways, and in how many different books you read about Ruskin Bond's life incidents, they always appear fresh whenever he writes it once again. This book shows Ruskin, the future writer, in the becoming. The incidents mentioned in this book are the ones that had made the base of his most memorable first book 'The Room on the Roof. It was the journal entries of this period that he turned into a novel. So this book is as special for his fans as for him. The ease with which he writes everything is just amazing. It is such a kind of book that you want to keep close to you every time. I hope he keeps on writing more memoirs in this series.
July 31, 2020
Yet again, Mr. Bond envelopes the reader in his simple yet charming world.
Take a bow, sir.
Take a bow, sir.
August 25, 2020
A song of India
The year I went away
By - Ruskin Bond
This book is a memoir of the author's early days. This is a very small book full of beautiful illustrations and I'm very glad that I get to read this book. I finished it in one sitting as I was totally hooked.
This book talks about Bond's youthful years, his first crush the girl who was older than him, his friends, his first step towards being a writer, his first paycheck, the time he spent tutoring three children to earn some money and his decision to go abroad to become a published author. The writing is very simple yet captivating as usual. The book is written beautifully and is recommended to readers of any age.
The cover is very beautiful and eye-catching and describes the book wholly. The illustrations in the book are very interesting and go with the story. The book is basically a short story that I finished in just an hour. So even if you are a beginner you can pick this book. You won't regret it.
The year I went away
By - Ruskin Bond
This book is a memoir of the author's early days. This is a very small book full of beautiful illustrations and I'm very glad that I get to read this book. I finished it in one sitting as I was totally hooked.
This book talks about Bond's youthful years, his first crush the girl who was older than him, his friends, his first step towards being a writer, his first paycheck, the time he spent tutoring three children to earn some money and his decision to go abroad to become a published author. The writing is very simple yet captivating as usual. The book is written beautifully and is recommended to readers of any age.
The cover is very beautiful and eye-catching and describes the book wholly. The illustrations in the book are very interesting and go with the story. The book is basically a short story that I finished in just an hour. So even if you are a beginner you can pick this book. You won't regret it.
February 20, 2021
'A Song of India' is part of the memoir series of Ruskin Bond's life for children between ages 8 to 80 ! It is the 4th book in the series & it is a treat to read. This book talks about Ruskin Bond spending his time in 'the room on the roof' which is worth reading & cherishing. I have read the first book in the series & have just realized that I need to purchase the other two books in the series which I will definitely do. This book is a collector's item & a must have for all Ruskin Bond fans out there. This cute little book gets 5 stars from me. Happy Reading to all !
August 8, 2020
Ruskin Bond needs no introduction to the world of books and here is another one of his tale coming from his youthful days about the boy Ruskin.
The book is called " A Song of India, the year i went away". The book mainly speaks about the cause and inspiration behind Ruskin moving from India to Abroad. The light and everyday events are narrated in the regular interesting writing of Mr. Bond.The book is a collection of narrations of small- small incidents that took place paving a way for Ruskin's move to abroad.His friends, his relationship with his step-father, the tution he took for 3 children, his cute attempts to impress elder to him Rajeshwari, his first paycheque for a writeup, as usual Ruskin has, in very simple words have been able to spread out his well known charm in the book. The illustrations are lovely and goes well with the story. A must must light just about an hour's read.
The book is called " A Song of India, the year i went away". The book mainly speaks about the cause and inspiration behind Ruskin moving from India to Abroad. The light and everyday events are narrated in the regular interesting writing of Mr. Bond.The book is a collection of narrations of small- small incidents that took place paving a way for Ruskin's move to abroad.His friends, his relationship with his step-father, the tution he took for 3 children, his cute attempts to impress elder to him Rajeshwari, his first paycheque for a writeup, as usual Ruskin has, in very simple words have been able to spread out his well known charm in the book. The illustrations are lovely and goes well with the story. A must must light just about an hour's read.
Read
December 14, 2020The 4th in a series of short memoirs, Song of India is the tale of 16 year old Ruskin in the mountains of Dehra. Having completed school, he decides to become an author. His choice of career is challenging, but armed with a type writer and an encouraging band of friends, he trudges ahead.
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Song of India is a piece of the pie for those who have read "The lone fox dancing", Ruskin's complete autobiography. This book is designed for young readers and has beautiful illustrations.
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The "Song of India", a poem at the climax of the book is a classic Ruskin touch - it is beautiful, filled with his love for the land and its people.
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Song of India is a piece of the pie for those who have read "The lone fox dancing", Ruskin's complete autobiography. This book is designed for young readers and has beautiful illustrations.
---
The "Song of India", a poem at the climax of the book is a classic Ruskin touch - it is beautiful, filled with his love for the land and its people.
October 2, 2022
Young Ruskin Bond is delighted to have finished his schooling. No school meant, no strenuous hours of exercising. He expressed his desire to become a writer which was rudely brushed aside by his mother. Ruskin Bond loved daydreaming in his younger days. He dreamt of dining with the king of England and glancing at Charles Dicken’s house. We see him as an avid reader, aspiring writer and regular cinema goer. A Chennai-based periodical - My Magazine of India, published his stories and the income derived from it supplemented his small pleasures.
It was the year when India saw a considerable rise in bicycles as they were cheaper than used cars. But Ruskin preferred to walk and watch the formidable ways of nature in Dehra. A heated exchange with his stepfather led him to storm out of the house and embark on a journey to an unknown land.
The title ‘Song of India’ gave me a feeling that it recounted an era before independence when patriotic fervour was rising. But it encompassed his feelings for his motherland and the pall of gloom that descended on him when he went away. The illustrations that depicted the yesteryears gave a retro feeling. There was a portrait of Ruskin Bond which was sketched in great detail. The chapters are short and the narrative had free-flowing language. We get to know how Ruskin Bond intently observed his surroundings to gather inspiration for his novels.
Like other volumes in the boyhood memoirs, the language forms an instant connection and we imagine Ruskin as a young lad of seventeen. I read the chapters twice just to revel in the atmospheric setting of a time when listening to radios, reading books and going to cinemas were considered a luxury. There was a hint of romance when Ruskin Bond harboured an intense feeling for Raj, an aspiring badminton player.
December 31, 2021
Eastward the sun and Westward the moon,
If you think of me, I'll come back soon!
A song of India is Ruskin Bond's Memoir, of his days as a teenager in India. In the book Bond recounts his time after finishing school, how he got his first money order as a young writer, how he was a part time tutor, and how he eventually moved to England.
Bond displays his well known writing style, painting a rich vivid picture of post independence India, from the Hills of Dehra Dun to the banks of the ganga at Rishikesh.
Bond's memoir displays his unrequited love, the times he had with his friends and his struggle as a writer.
This book was more of a picture book, it's pages had a beautiful rustic texture, accompanied by the lively illustrations by Mihir Joglekar. It is definitely a must read for any reader.
If you think of me, I'll come back soon!
A song of India is Ruskin Bond's Memoir, of his days as a teenager in India. In the book Bond recounts his time after finishing school, how he got his first money order as a young writer, how he was a part time tutor, and how he eventually moved to England.
Bond displays his well known writing style, painting a rich vivid picture of post independence India, from the Hills of Dehra Dun to the banks of the ganga at Rishikesh.
Bond's memoir displays his unrequited love, the times he had with his friends and his struggle as a writer.
This book was more of a picture book, it's pages had a beautiful rustic texture, accompanied by the lively illustrations by Mihir Joglekar. It is definitely a must read for any reader.
August 31, 2020
The book is a memoir from Mr Ruskin Bond's life when he was 16 years old and had just finished School. The year he spent in Dehra before he went to Jersey to stay with his aunt. It is the fourth book in his series of memoirs of his younger years where he talked about his dreams of becoming a writer, his first crush, his love for India and a lot more. The writing is simple yet beautiful. This is a short book but it has been so long since I have read even short stories in one go and this book did it. I got absorbed in the story completely and finished it in a matter of few hours yesterday which was very refreshing for me. The book overall left me feeling very happy and I think it is the kind of book that both children and adults will love to read. Also the illustrations done by Mihir Joglekar in the book are very beautiful. 😍❤
September 4, 2020
A song of India : The year I went away from Author Ruskin Bond is a memoir of his sweet 16ish life.
Passionate about writing and shared how he has struggled to step forward in his writing journey. It also tells about his joy of receiving first money order from "My magazine of India" for publishing his short stories, his first crush for Raj, who was 2 years older than him and being a tutor to three students and shared a little of every event that he had spent in that time.
This book is accompanied by beautiful, captivating and inspiring illustrations by illustrator Mihir Joglekar which grabs the readers attention.
The language of the book is commendable with easy flow. Now I can't wait to discover other books.
Passionate about writing and shared how he has struggled to step forward in his writing journey. It also tells about his joy of receiving first money order from "My magazine of India" for publishing his short stories, his first crush for Raj, who was 2 years older than him and being a tutor to three students and shared a little of every event that he had spent in that time.
This book is accompanied by beautiful, captivating and inspiring illustrations by illustrator Mihir Joglekar which grabs the readers attention.
The language of the book is commendable with easy flow. Now I can't wait to discover other books.
July 20, 2024
Bond's prose is as comforting as a warm embrace. He captures the essence of India with a delicate touch, from the bustling city life to the serene beauty of nature. The characters are endearing and relatable, adding depth to the narrative.
While the book is a short read, it leaves a lasting impression. It's a testament to the enduring power of nostalgia and the magic of Ruskin Bond's storytelling. A Song of India is a must-read for fans of the author and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted coming-of-age tale
While the book is a short read, it leaves a lasting impression. It's a testament to the enduring power of nostalgia and the magic of Ruskin Bond's storytelling. A Song of India is a must-read for fans of the author and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted coming-of-age tale
July 21, 2020
This is a fourth book in memoirs series. As a reader who read most of his works will find it rereading. Simple quick read and always a pleasure reading few lines that are new. With his usual style of wit and curiosity to learn and accepting the facts of life make me enjoy his works.
September 17, 2023
Such a happy read! Wish he married Raj at the end. It would have been such a nice story!
So good to read about post Independence India, travel scenario, the value of literature (print media) and Rishikesh.
My friend gifted this book for me. And I am really thankful for it.
So good to read about post Independence India, travel scenario, the value of literature (print media) and Rishikesh.
My friend gifted this book for me. And I am really thankful for it.
December 16, 2020
A glimpse at young Ruskin's foray into writing before going to London. A best nostalgic treat. Review coming soon.
May 19, 2022
The book is pure delight! And the illustrations are great! Both the stories and the illustrations make it a must-have for collectors.
September 16, 2022
Very well written from a young boys' point of view. Innocent yet so revealing 👍
January 2, 2023
Lovely book , easy to understand so many anecdotes ..
November 22, 2024
Story story about author’s preparation and journey from India to jersey, giving nostalgic feeling, good read.
June 28, 2025
a cute fast read, first 1 sitting read-and really relatable for a indian
July 20, 2022
By the fourth book “A Song of India: The year I went away”, Ruskin Bond has identified his love for writing. The freedom of getting a space of his own, and being able to write uninterrupted, plays a big role in his writing journey, giving the readers hope that the tiniest wins of life can actually lead them to bigger achievements. However, like many of us, he struggles to get recognition for his talent. He faces rejection and critique, but nothing makes him lose hope. He knows he wants to become a writer, and he takes all the necessary steps to get closer to his goal. One of those steps being to leave India
August 13, 2025
My Rating : 5 🌟
"It's much easier being an author than a tutor. A writer has only to deal with his own muddled mind. A tutor has to deal with countless minds, some cuddled , some muddled, some befuddled."
Following the trail of "Looking for the Rainbow" , "Till the Clouds Roll By" , and "Coming Round the Mountain" , "A Song of India" is fourth novel of this series that describes another year from the life of fiery teenager, as he embarks on a journey to an unfamiliar land. 🙂
A Song of India is a tale narrated by the author himself about his life in India just before leaving for london. This book makes you laugh, makes you sad(a bit), makes you say aww while reading about the sweet as well as sad moments in the life of author. ❤❤❤
The narration is so pure and simple that it seems like the author is sixteen years old now. 😁. The book is filled with the vallies , lifestyle and nature of Dehra which is so lovely🤩🤩
While about the author's life, the book beautifully describes the his daydreaming, chaos, affection, little success and achievements in the life of a teenager, his positive attitude towards the life and his determination to become an author is very good. 👍👍 The book ends with the author bidding farewell to his mates and family and start his voyage for England telling that he will return back to India one day, followed by a lovely poem "A Song of India". ❤❤❤
"Eastward the sun and Westward the moon, if you think of me, I'll come back soon! "
🙂🙂🙂
"It's much easier being an author than a tutor. A writer has only to deal with his own muddled mind. A tutor has to deal with countless minds, some cuddled , some muddled, some befuddled."
Following the trail of "Looking for the Rainbow" , "Till the Clouds Roll By" , and "Coming Round the Mountain" , "A Song of India" is fourth novel of this series that describes another year from the life of fiery teenager, as he embarks on a journey to an unfamiliar land. 🙂
A Song of India is a tale narrated by the author himself about his life in India just before leaving for london. This book makes you laugh, makes you sad(a bit), makes you say aww while reading about the sweet as well as sad moments in the life of author. ❤❤❤
The narration is so pure and simple that it seems like the author is sixteen years old now. 😁. The book is filled with the vallies , lifestyle and nature of Dehra which is so lovely🤩🤩
While about the author's life, the book beautifully describes the his daydreaming, chaos, affection, little success and achievements in the life of a teenager, his positive attitude towards the life and his determination to become an author is very good. 👍👍 The book ends with the author bidding farewell to his mates and family and start his voyage for England telling that he will return back to India one day, followed by a lovely poem "A Song of India". ❤❤❤
"Eastward the sun and Westward the moon, if you think of me, I'll come back soon! "
🙂🙂🙂
March 29, 2024
A pleasant read about the days before Ruskin Bond went away from India to England; when he completed his school and wanted to become a writer; when he received his first payment by selling a story to a magazine; when he became a tutor of three children, and finally when he said goodbye to India.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2020
Loved it!!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews