What do you think?
Rate this book
Tales From My Heart
Miss Kellner has a tin of biscuits that fascinates little Ruskin. And granny’s cat is just so full of attitude. Oh, and have you heard about the famous playback singer from Mumbai who sang for the ghost of the maestro Tansen?
Ruskin Bond’s charming life has been anything but ordinary. In this wonderful collection, he scours through his memories to come away with tales that celebrate life, its myriad splendours and many lessons; spectacular wonders of nature; stories of ghosts; and the surprising friendships between animals and people. Tales From My Heart, written in Bond’s inimitable style, is peppered with his trademark warmth and wit. Vividly illustrated by Sumouli Dutta, this is a gift for all readers, big and small—a family treasure to return to with joy and affection over the years.
About the Author
Ruskin Bond is India's most-loved and read children's author. His first novel, The Room on the Roof, written when he was seventeen years old, won the John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize in 1957. Since then he has written several novels, essays, poems and children’s books. He has also written over 500 short stories and articles that have appeared in a number of magazines and anthologies. He received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1993 and the Padma Shri in 1999
Ruskin Bond’s charming life has been anything but ordinary. In this wonderful collection, he scours through his memories to come away with tales that celebrate life, its myriad splendours and many lessons; spectacular wonders of nature; stories of ghosts; and the surprising friendships between animals and people. Tales From My Heart, written in Bond’s inimitable style, is peppered with his trademark warmth and wit. Vividly illustrated by Sumouli Dutta, this is a gift for all readers, big and small—a family treasure to return to with joy and affection over the years.
About the Author
Ruskin Bond is India's most-loved and read children's author. His first novel, The Room on the Roof, written when he was seventeen years old, won the John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize in 1957. Since then he has written several novels, essays, poems and children’s books. He has also written over 500 short stories and articles that have appeared in a number of magazines and anthologies. He received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1993 and the Padma Shri in 1999
113 pages, Paperback
Published July 15, 2021
25 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Ruskin Bond
680 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 31, 2021
Charming as always,the stories are in the classic Bond style,the beauty of mother nature,trees,birds and animals and his philosophical one liners in between😍
Most amazing part is his digital signature on the first page💃🏻
Most amazing part is his digital signature on the first page💃🏻
July 25, 2021
Ruskin Bond is a friend for many readers, a friend who gifts us words. Beautiful words of wisdom and deep observations from a simple world. People, animals, things and incidents that might appear mundane to the majority appeal to him and therefore us. His latest book called 'Tales From My Heart' published by Red Panda is a collection of 16 anecdotes and reflections through his life, the remarkable part is the attention to the details in the incidents despite them having occurred decades ago. The illustrations by Sumouli Dutta are endearing and paint a perfect picture.
One wouldn't be surprised if some of them call it a children's book, for its simplicity and shortness. There is a blessed ingenuousness in his writing. The way he weaves his memories with humour and foresight he makes the reader develop a divine and a personal connection, and this only a seasoned Bond reader will understand. These tales did reach our heart!
One wouldn't be surprised if some of them call it a children's book, for its simplicity and shortness. There is a blessed ingenuousness in his writing. The way he weaves his memories with humour and foresight he makes the reader develop a divine and a personal connection, and this only a seasoned Bond reader will understand. These tales did reach our heart!
April 14, 2023
I learnt a lot about nature from this book. And it was very informative.
March 26, 2025
Small lil novella with short stories
One with cat(Mimi), Owl r my favs
One with cat(Mimi), Owl r my favs
August 9, 2021
"Why and who created us?
What is life?
If, life's as beautiful as a poet's imagination then, why do we suffer?
Why some of us have to go through hardships whereas others enjoy a lavish lifestyle?
Are we alive? Or, just trying to survive?"
Most of us must have tried to figure out the true meaning of this terribly simple yet highly complex, word- 'Life'.
Some say, it's about achieving your dreams while, for some others, life is about living and working for the betterment of others.
If you ask a businessman, life, for him, is about amassing wealth and creating a name for himself, whereas, on the other hand, an ascetic's view of life is about detachment from worldly pleasures and attainment of Nirvana.
Life, from a kid's POV, is about having his/her cravings for chocolates and toys, satisfied, whereas, an employee's life is about fulfillment of his/her superiors' orders within the given deadline.
But, is life that simple? If it is, then why hasn't it been decoded, yet?
We've always been so engrossed in the quest for something or the other to add meaning to our lives, that we've forgotten what it means to LIVE.
India's favourite storyteller Ruskin Bond's latest release 'Tales from my Heart' is an illustrated compilation of mesmerizing, ultra short tales from his own simple yet, eventful life. The ever-easy-going Bond, walks down the memory lane to handpick some of the most beautiful, simple, impactful and unforgettable experiences from every stage of his life, well, not in a chronological order. Every chapter, a lesson, every page, a realisation. That's what this book is to me. Ruskin's optimistic view of life reflects through every sentence and is highly infectious. Starting from the experience of getting his writing published for the first time, to remembering his grandma's philosophical gardener, Dhuki, Mr. Bond has magically portrayed life in all its glory, with/without intending to do so.
The cover and illustrations are a treat to go through. 😍 The writing is simple and lucid, based on keen observation and laced with humour- the typical Bond way! Ruskin's 'Tales from my Heart' is beyond the premises of age groups!! A must read!! ❤️
What is life?
If, life's as beautiful as a poet's imagination then, why do we suffer?
Why some of us have to go through hardships whereas others enjoy a lavish lifestyle?
Are we alive? Or, just trying to survive?"
Most of us must have tried to figure out the true meaning of this terribly simple yet highly complex, word- 'Life'.
Some say, it's about achieving your dreams while, for some others, life is about living and working for the betterment of others.
If you ask a businessman, life, for him, is about amassing wealth and creating a name for himself, whereas, on the other hand, an ascetic's view of life is about detachment from worldly pleasures and attainment of Nirvana.
Life, from a kid's POV, is about having his/her cravings for chocolates and toys, satisfied, whereas, an employee's life is about fulfillment of his/her superiors' orders within the given deadline.
But, is life that simple? If it is, then why hasn't it been decoded, yet?
We've always been so engrossed in the quest for something or the other to add meaning to our lives, that we've forgotten what it means to LIVE.
India's favourite storyteller Ruskin Bond's latest release 'Tales from my Heart' is an illustrated compilation of mesmerizing, ultra short tales from his own simple yet, eventful life. The ever-easy-going Bond, walks down the memory lane to handpick some of the most beautiful, simple, impactful and unforgettable experiences from every stage of his life, well, not in a chronological order. Every chapter, a lesson, every page, a realisation. That's what this book is to me. Ruskin's optimistic view of life reflects through every sentence and is highly infectious. Starting from the experience of getting his writing published for the first time, to remembering his grandma's philosophical gardener, Dhuki, Mr. Bond has magically portrayed life in all its glory, with/without intending to do so.
The cover and illustrations are a treat to go through. 😍 The writing is simple and lucid, based on keen observation and laced with humour- the typical Bond way! Ruskin's 'Tales from my Heart' is beyond the premises of age groups!! A must read!! ❤️
August 20, 2021
Book Review: Tales from My Heart by Ruskin Bond
This is not a novel. This is not even a collection of short stories. Yet, these are tales, woven out of anecdotes in the life of the author.
Each of the short tale celebrates life. The author finds joy in the blooming flowers, in the birds and animals, even in an owl living in his house, in the vision that he had of his dead grandmother petting her pet cat, in the duet sung by the famous singer with the ghost of Tansen, in the exploits of people who want to do something different.
This is a book from which you can narrate different stories to your children, or read them with a smile and a chuckle, to perk you up when you think life has dealt you a poor hand.
Yes, I am biased towards Ruskin Bond. But I will any day take hope over despair - like the author has been doing since he was 17 years old.
This is not a novel. This is not even a collection of short stories. Yet, these are tales, woven out of anecdotes in the life of the author.
Each of the short tale celebrates life. The author finds joy in the blooming flowers, in the birds and animals, even in an owl living in his house, in the vision that he had of his dead grandmother petting her pet cat, in the duet sung by the famous singer with the ghost of Tansen, in the exploits of people who want to do something different.
This is a book from which you can narrate different stories to your children, or read them with a smile and a chuckle, to perk you up when you think life has dealt you a poor hand.
Yes, I am biased towards Ruskin Bond. But I will any day take hope over despair - like the author has been doing since he was 17 years old.
September 11, 2021
Another spellbound book of Ruskin Bond!😍
The book consists 16 short stories or rather I can say 16 nostalgic memories of Ruskin Bond. From a 16 years old young Ruskin whose first story got published in the famous "The Illustrated Weekly of India" magazine to he pursued a professional writing career and started to live in Mussoorie, this book contains quite a journey. These stories are too short that one can finish it within an hour. My favourite chapter from this book is chapter 2, where he talks about the nature of life & how we ignore everything around us & we don't appreciate things around us. Then he advises us to seize the moment and embrace everything around us.❤️
One cannot explain the wizardry of Ruskin's writing, but one can surely recommend, as it's an absolute recommendation from me!
The book consists 16 short stories or rather I can say 16 nostalgic memories of Ruskin Bond. From a 16 years old young Ruskin whose first story got published in the famous "The Illustrated Weekly of India" magazine to he pursued a professional writing career and started to live in Mussoorie, this book contains quite a journey. These stories are too short that one can finish it within an hour. My favourite chapter from this book is chapter 2, where he talks about the nature of life & how we ignore everything around us & we don't appreciate things around us. Then he advises us to seize the moment and embrace everything around us.❤️
One cannot explain the wizardry of Ruskin's writing, but one can surely recommend, as it's an absolute recommendation from me!
September 20, 2021
My love for short stories never ends. So is Ruskin Bond in writing such stories. He never stops in getting such unique pieces. Tales From My Heart is one such book. Mr. Ruskin has vividly put down the tales straight from his heart, from his very own life. His meetings, encounters, observations of nature, his little loves, and also, here and there, he touched upon the lessons he had learnt from random incidents in life and career. These stories have such strong impact that we reflect on them deeply and they reminds us to enjoy and cherish all little things and details that we come across.
To say about Bond’s writing style, it is always light to heart, easy and breezy! But this ends so soon as the book is very very short read and can be completed in less than an hour. Good one. If you love short stories like me and enjoy light and fun reading, you are good to go with it.
To say about Bond’s writing style, it is always light to heart, easy and breezy! But this ends so soon as the book is very very short read and can be completed in less than an hour. Good one. If you love short stories like me and enjoy light and fun reading, you are good to go with it.
January 30, 2024
After reading Tales From My Heart, it becomes evident that the title is indeed well-deserved. Within the pages of this book, Ruskin Bond candidly shares his childhood memories, infused with subtle reflections on life, the environment's decline, the state of Indian media, and a myriad of other subjects. If you're a fan of Bond's distinctive style, rest assured that you'll thoroughly enjoy this charming, uplifting read that's coupled with beautiful illustrations by Sumouli Dutta.
August 1, 2021
Tales from my Heart comprises of 16 short stories from Bond's childhood. Written in the beautiful and imitable style unique to him, stories filled with humour, excitement, beauty and lessons to learn from. The books revolves around incidents and moments from his childhood and ends in the presence. Curated specially for children but I believe it can definitely be a joyful ride for adults too. It's a quick read with beautiful illustration accompanying each page of narration.
The book sets an example how one's ordinary life might not be a full fledged novel but definitely the moments and experiences within are extraordinary tales to cherish.
A must read for all readers!!
The book sets an example how one's ordinary life might not be a full fledged novel but definitely the moments and experiences within are extraordinary tales to cherish.
A must read for all readers!!
October 17, 2021
Whenever I read Mr Bond’s work, I don’t know what I get envious of more: The adventures he writes about or the writing itself. Either of these has a thing in common, simplicity.
Tales from my heart is a lovely collection of Mr Bond’s candid experiences from his walks, neighbourhood, incidents from childhood, career and overall life. Almost all of these touch upon the intricacies of human nature. These are the tales that remind us how little things in our lives matter the most. Mr Bond talks about the most mundane anecdotes with such charm that you will not put this down without finishing it. All the tales have a typical warmth and wit that you read in Mr Bond’s work. And lastly, the title is perfect! All these tales seem super close to his heart.
If you are looking for a light and breezy book, this is it.
Tales from my heart is a lovely collection of Mr Bond’s candid experiences from his walks, neighbourhood, incidents from childhood, career and overall life. Almost all of these touch upon the intricacies of human nature. These are the tales that remind us how little things in our lives matter the most. Mr Bond talks about the most mundane anecdotes with such charm that you will not put this down without finishing it. All the tales have a typical warmth and wit that you read in Mr Bond’s work. And lastly, the title is perfect! All these tales seem super close to his heart.
If you are looking for a light and breezy book, this is it.
July 14, 2024
Every short or rather tiny tale is a little treasure in itself. Why go looking out for diamonds when you can enjoy the sparkle of dew drops on a monsoon afternoon. Ruskin Bond would've said that. And you would agree once you read these tales from his heart. I've always wished to catch the next flight to Dehradun and sit by one of those windows in the hills that overlook his beautiful mountains, wildflowers, birds and squirrels. This sort of a book could bring peace to any restless mind. Must read.
Rating: 5/5
Rating: 5/5
March 2, 2025
Tales from My Heart is a beautiful collection of short stories by Ruskin Bond. Each story is simple yet full of meaning, making you smile and wonder at the same time.
Bond’s writing is warm and comforting, like listening to an old friend share stories about life, nature, and people. The book is short, and I finished it in just a couple of hours, but every story stayed with me. His way of telling simple tales with deep messages is what makes this book special.
If you love short, heartwarming stories that touch your heart, this book is a must-read!
Bond’s writing is warm and comforting, like listening to an old friend share stories about life, nature, and people. The book is short, and I finished it in just a couple of hours, but every story stayed with me. His way of telling simple tales with deep messages is what makes this book special.
If you love short, heartwarming stories that touch your heart, this book is a must-read!
July 25, 2021
When it's Ruskin Bond, it's always a 5 Star read. I am alway attracted to Ruskin Bond books because of it's simplicity and love for nature. This book was no exception. His life stories of hill station are most simple yet so fascinating. Who knows inspired by him I may write stories of mine just to amuse myself.
August 9, 2021
Tales From My Heart is a compilation of 16 short stories by Ruskin Bond with fantastic monochromatic illustrations by Sumouli Dutta.
Mr. Bond has candidly written about the scenarios, people and occasionally poured in the wisdom from his life via metaphors in these 16 stories. He talks about his Granny's cat, Miss Kellner and her tin of biscuits, a singer from Bombay who sang for ghosts, a plum tree, Dhuki, nature and a bunch of random memories from his life adding that charm and wit to the story telling. His ever infectious positive outlook on life is clearly reflected in the stories he's compiled in this book. It's undoubtedly one of the best collection of short stories for any reader irrespective of their age. These condensed tales will make the reader finish the entire book in one go; it's a short and simply delightful title! This book is a wonderful representation of the sort of stories that Mr. Bond writes. With the lucid language, beautiful illustrations and profound simplicity, this was such a heartwarming read! For those young readers who want to begin reading Ruskin Bond, this is the book for you!
Mr. Bond has candidly written about the scenarios, people and occasionally poured in the wisdom from his life via metaphors in these 16 stories. He talks about his Granny's cat, Miss Kellner and her tin of biscuits, a singer from Bombay who sang for ghosts, a plum tree, Dhuki, nature and a bunch of random memories from his life adding that charm and wit to the story telling. His ever infectious positive outlook on life is clearly reflected in the stories he's compiled in this book. It's undoubtedly one of the best collection of short stories for any reader irrespective of their age. These condensed tales will make the reader finish the entire book in one go; it's a short and simply delightful title! This book is a wonderful representation of the sort of stories that Mr. Bond writes. With the lucid language, beautiful illustrations and profound simplicity, this was such a heartwarming read! For those young readers who want to begin reading Ruskin Bond, this is the book for you!
January 10, 2023
Tales from my heart 💜❤️💚💛💙🤎🤍
Beautiful book of good experiences of childhood days , set of 16 memories each memory written in between 2- 4 pages with imaginary illustrations will give lovely content.
Beautiful book of good experiences of childhood days , set of 16 memories each memory written in between 2- 4 pages with imaginary illustrations will give lovely content.
November 28, 2023
For a loner,these stories are my companion
A nature aficionado narrating its rich experience with life in sync with nature.
Read and re read it several times to enjoy it more and more as many times I read through it.
A nature aficionado narrating its rich experience with life in sync with nature.
Read and re read it several times to enjoy it more and more as many times I read through it.
July 22, 2021
Very short read. It's meant for the younger readers
July 28, 2021
Loved the book..
August 8, 2021
16 stories with illustrations. Some of the stories are written earlier, these stories are rewritten to my understanding as they are in a different style. Simple, yet amazing stories.
August 16, 2021
A short and warm book...perfect title
Anyone can read it
Anyone can read it
October 9, 2021
Old Ruskin Bond takes packaged with a new cover as has been the case for some time now.
November 25, 2021
Awesome and simple stories like always ,love to read
July 8, 2022
What a beautiful book!
December 20, 2022
Another great Ruskin Bond read!!!!!
May 8, 2025
A delightful anthology of nostalgic writeups on mother nature, animals and life from the writer of mountains. truly a treat !!
June 10, 2024
Ruskin Bond's "Tales from My Heart" is a charming collection of vignettes that capture the essence of simpler times with a world rich in nature and endearing character. I think this would resonate a lot more when I was younger but I love the comforting dose of nostalgia.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews