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Song of the forest: Tales from here, there, and everywhere
Ruskin Bond is a master of the short story. This pitch-perfect collection brings together the very best tales he has written in the twenty-first century. The book starts with the title story, 'Song of the Forest', which has never been published before, and includes extraordinary pieces of fiction like 'A Man Called Brain', 'Rhododendrons in the Mist', and 'Miracle at Happy Bazaar'. Dazzling, comic, and gripping, Song of the Forest is the latest masterpiece from India's most beloved writer.
- GenresShort StoriesFiction
245 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2022
7 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Ruskin Bond
681 books3,564 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 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 29, 2022
It has become a tradition/reading ritual of sorts for me to read Ruskin Bond in April and May. His books and writing are so nature oriented and since his birthday is in May, I decide to read as much as I can, even re-reading counts. His books have helped me find solace in the pandemic, with his witty and emotional writing and continues to do so. I cannot talk about his books without a bias and I am not going to apologise for that.
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I had liked Bond’s Rain in the mountains earlier, which was a beautiful nature oriented read and made me crave the hills so much. Songs of the forest was a beautiful read with some of his best stories over the years (I don’t mind rereading his stories even if they appear in every anthology, I for one don’t find them repetitive) The stories have this typical Bond touch, you know what I am talking about. Bond’s writing is seeped in nostalgia and that’s what I am here for. I cherish the days gone by, their good memories and most importantly the simplicity of that time. It’s hard to find such simple people, the simple lives and the simple and high thinking they led. The titular story, Song of the forest, highlighted the hill stations and how the demographics are changing in the hill stations.
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Maybe that’s why I keep returning to his books and his writing every once in a while, for that homely feeling and simplicity which I crave. Out of the 15 stories, I loved the titular story, Miracle at Happy Bazaar, Breakfast at Barog, The old suitcase, Life is sweet, brother and Haunted places the most. Read this one on a lazy summer afternoon, you are sure to love it!
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I had liked Bond’s Rain in the mountains earlier, which was a beautiful nature oriented read and made me crave the hills so much. Songs of the forest was a beautiful read with some of his best stories over the years (I don’t mind rereading his stories even if they appear in every anthology, I for one don’t find them repetitive) The stories have this typical Bond touch, you know what I am talking about. Bond’s writing is seeped in nostalgia and that’s what I am here for. I cherish the days gone by, their good memories and most importantly the simplicity of that time. It’s hard to find such simple people, the simple lives and the simple and high thinking they led. The titular story, Song of the forest, highlighted the hill stations and how the demographics are changing in the hill stations.
~
Maybe that’s why I keep returning to his books and his writing every once in a while, for that homely feeling and simplicity which I crave. Out of the 15 stories, I loved the titular story, Miracle at Happy Bazaar, Breakfast at Barog, The old suitcase, Life is sweet, brother and Haunted places the most. Read this one on a lazy summer afternoon, you are sure to love it!
June 10, 2022
In this eclectic collection of stories from one of the best storytellers in the world is a treat to all Bond fans. And Song of the Forest, the story that is also the title of this book has never been published before. So there's that! I absolutely loved reading these stories again. I had forgotten about some of them, but reading them again made me nostalgic and reminded me of my school days. Those were the days that I used to devour these stories and felt like a legit reader for the first time in my life. Will also be thankful to Ruskin Bond for that feeling. I honestly can't choose just one story from this collection of 15, 'cause all of them are equally enticing and beautiful.
June 14, 2022
There's something very charming about Ruskin Bond's books. His subtle sense of humour coupled with dreamy descriptions of the mountains has enchanted everyone. His latest book is no different. Comprising of some old and few new stories, Song of the Forest was all in all a breezy book.
Of course, one would enjoy it more if they don't mind the repetitive stories but perhaps for the very first time, I was slightly impatient in finishing it. But that's just me. He brings nature to life through his writing and you end up paying attention to even the unattended plant growing in your home. But there's also stories of both friendly and frightening ghosts, of dreams and princesses etc. One can never differentiate between truth and imagination when it comes to Bond's stories. I guess that's what makes his books quite endearing.
Oh, did I mention about the charming part already? :)
Thanks for the copy @alephbookco 🍃
Of course, one would enjoy it more if they don't mind the repetitive stories but perhaps for the very first time, I was slightly impatient in finishing it. But that's just me. He brings nature to life through his writing and you end up paying attention to even the unattended plant growing in your home. But there's also stories of both friendly and frightening ghosts, of dreams and princesses etc. One can never differentiate between truth and imagination when it comes to Bond's stories. I guess that's what makes his books quite endearing.
Oh, did I mention about the charming part already? :)
Thanks for the copy @alephbookco 🍃
September 10, 2022
In the afterword of the Ruskin Bond's latest book 'Song of the Forest' a short story is defined 'as a linear temporal phenomenon. It proceeds and charms us (or doesn't) a line at a time. We have to keep being pulled into a story in order for it to do anything to us'. This definition perfectly sums up Ruskin Bond's writing. One simple yet perfect line is followed by other and before you know you are totally engrossed in the story.
Ruskin's latest book 'Song of the forest' is a collection of 15 short stories. Almost all the stories are based in mussoorie hill station or nearby areas. The stories are simple and sweet. They are not something that ache your mind but appeal your heart. Most of the stories are written in first person and are the fictionalized version of author's life in the hills.
The longest story in the book is 'Tales of Forestganj' More than 100 pages long it almost takes the form of novella. The story is from the place named 'Forestganj' near Mussoorie where the author lived briefly in the 60s (almost a year).
Most of us expect a surprise ending at the end of a short story. Don't expect here. Rather enjoy the beauty of words of a master craftsman. His writing elegantly captures the essence and beauty of a hill place.
What separates Ruskin from his contemporaries is his sheer simplicity. His characters especially his protagonist is simple human being and one can easily relate to his life. His protagonist can be your fellow traveler, a stranger whom you meet at a coffee shops or in the metro. His protagonist is fallible yet lovable, easy to connect and easier to understand.
If you are searching for a very light hearted reading especially after a complex stories or novel you have read, I would highly recommend this book.
Ruskin's latest book 'Song of the forest' is a collection of 15 short stories. Almost all the stories are based in mussoorie hill station or nearby areas. The stories are simple and sweet. They are not something that ache your mind but appeal your heart. Most of the stories are written in first person and are the fictionalized version of author's life in the hills.
The longest story in the book is 'Tales of Forestganj' More than 100 pages long it almost takes the form of novella. The story is from the place named 'Forestganj' near Mussoorie where the author lived briefly in the 60s (almost a year).
Most of us expect a surprise ending at the end of a short story. Don't expect here. Rather enjoy the beauty of words of a master craftsman. His writing elegantly captures the essence and beauty of a hill place.
What separates Ruskin from his contemporaries is his sheer simplicity. His characters especially his protagonist is simple human being and one can easily relate to his life. His protagonist can be your fellow traveler, a stranger whom you meet at a coffee shops or in the metro. His protagonist is fallible yet lovable, easy to connect and easier to understand.
If you are searching for a very light hearted reading especially after a complex stories or novel you have read, I would highly recommend this book.
May 28, 2022
Every time I picked up another story from this book, I would get this urgent craving to visit the mountains. The coolness of the rainy season in a hilly area, the soft music the raindrops would create, the musty sweet smell coming from the mushy soil. Such is the power of Ruskin Bond's writing. Each of his books that I have read has transported me to some old memory that I didn't know I needed to relive.
Every story in this book is beautiful, which is a rare achievement for any anthology. They are pleasantly set in the hilly areas of Northern India where Bond had the opportunity to live or travel. And with his master skillfulness he is able to craft these wonderful part-truth part-fictitious stories for his readers.
Every story in this book is beautiful, which is a rare achievement for any anthology. They are pleasantly set in the hilly areas of Northern India where Bond had the opportunity to live or travel. And with his master skillfulness he is able to craft these wonderful part-truth part-fictitious stories for his readers.
June 1, 2022
Ruskin Bond's gentle humour and innocent romance is quite visible in his words. In this short collection of 15 stories, he presents the readers with another set of tales that are laced with imagery and have enough mention of the beauty of the hills and the forest.
Song of the Forest is an anthology that comprises stories- new and old- that range from mystery and magic to nostalgia and reminiscence of the past. The titular story is more like a narrative about the mellifluous sounds that keep the forest alive. Various animals and birds come to life through Bond's words and he doesn't fail to describe his elated spirit whenever he has a chance to revisit nature.
Read the complete review here:https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
Song of the Forest is an anthology that comprises stories- new and old- that range from mystery and magic to nostalgia and reminiscence of the past. The titular story is more like a narrative about the mellifluous sounds that keep the forest alive. Various animals and birds come to life through Bond's words and he doesn't fail to describe his elated spirit whenever he has a chance to revisit nature.
Read the complete review here:https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
July 8, 2023
The four stars are for the book.
I did this one on audio. Hansraj Shetty has a good voice but terrible diction. He mispronounces fairly common words (I don't mean the really big ones, just the ones people ordinarily use), and while that's not something one is sneering at, you wish audible would have chosen a better reader or at least have the guy practice a bit before taking to the microphone. Ruskin Bond is a popular author with both kids and adults alike, and the kids will grow up with dodgy pronunciation if they grow up listening to audio like this, and audible has a responsibility even otherwise to its customers.
Not only were the errors grating, one gets the impression that there was someone in the background asking the reader to re-read material he was mispronouncing, perhaps to edit it out later, but they left it all unedited. But that was only for a while at the beginning, and then even that "director" (my bad. it's a 'producer' in a recording studio, who does that, innit?) seems to have given up on him!
The audiobook is very annoying! A lot of Ruskin Bond (and others, for that matter) books, I have noticed, have been read by rank amateurs and they do good ol' Mr. Bond a disservice!
That said, this is one of Mr. Bond's better books with material I haven't encountered before (and I have been a long-time fan), but only relatively speaking. There is repeat material, but not as much as there is in some other books, there being so many editions and a good bit of overlap in several books now ... what with everyone from Aleph to Rupa trying to cash in on the man's popularity!
Hansraj Shetty. Bhai thoda google kiya karo yaar pronunciation! aisi bhi kya jaldi hai! That thing you recorded is perhaps going to sit there for life. Aagey jaakey tumhaarey bachchon ke bachchey bhi tumko gaali dengey!
I did this one on audio. Hansraj Shetty has a good voice but terrible diction. He mispronounces fairly common words (I don't mean the really big ones, just the ones people ordinarily use), and while that's not something one is sneering at, you wish audible would have chosen a better reader or at least have the guy practice a bit before taking to the microphone. Ruskin Bond is a popular author with both kids and adults alike, and the kids will grow up with dodgy pronunciation if they grow up listening to audio like this, and audible has a responsibility even otherwise to its customers.
Not only were the errors grating, one gets the impression that there was someone in the background asking the reader to re-read material he was mispronouncing, perhaps to edit it out later, but they left it all unedited. But that was only for a while at the beginning, and then even that "director" (my bad. it's a 'producer' in a recording studio, who does that, innit?) seems to have given up on him!
The audiobook is very annoying! A lot of Ruskin Bond (and others, for that matter) books, I have noticed, have been read by rank amateurs and they do good ol' Mr. Bond a disservice!
That said, this is one of Mr. Bond's better books with material I haven't encountered before (and I have been a long-time fan), but only relatively speaking. There is repeat material, but not as much as there is in some other books, there being so many editions and a good bit of overlap in several books now ... what with everyone from Aleph to Rupa trying to cash in on the man's popularity!
Hansraj Shetty. Bhai thoda google kiya karo yaar pronunciation! aisi bhi kya jaldi hai! That thing you recorded is perhaps going to sit there for life. Aagey jaakey tumhaarey bachchon ke bachchey bhi tumko gaali dengey!
July 21, 2023
Ruskin Bond is a man who has mastered the art of writing. The King of short stories, tells us through his books how easily and effortlessly an author can hook the readers to the book. With so many years of experience traveling in different corners of the country, the author has a plethora of stories to share. Song in the forest is one such craft through which the author claims an unquestionable position.
In a carefully crafted foreword, the publisher is telling about the art of writing short stories. That the first line is what makes the readers hooked to the book and the second one falls in place effortlessly once after the other when the lines juxtaposed that taking birth
While reading the book we realize how on point the forward has assessed the craft of the writer.
The book is written in the classic Ruskin Bond template which we all are fans of. The book left me wondering how many experiences a single human being has had and how imaginative one person can be.
The innocence of writing
The innocence of Ruskin Bond's writing is what attracts the readers. The magnetic pull of the words has expressed the power this time as well through Song of the forest
My story
One of the stories are too connected to my personal life. Being a pranic healer I was pleasantly surprised to read the story of the healer. Another story of a sort of serial killer. This is a reality that we have been reading about in
In a carefully crafted foreword, the publisher is telling about the art of writing short stories. That the first line is what makes the readers hooked to the book and the second one falls in place effortlessly once after the other when the lines juxtaposed that taking birth
While reading the book we realize how on point the forward has assessed the craft of the writer.
The book is written in the classic Ruskin Bond template which we all are fans of. The book left me wondering how many experiences a single human being has had and how imaginative one person can be.
The innocence of writing
The innocence of Ruskin Bond's writing is what attracts the readers. The magnetic pull of the words has expressed the power this time as well through Song of the forest
My story
One of the stories are too connected to my personal life. Being a pranic healer I was pleasantly surprised to read the story of the healer. Another story of a sort of serial killer. This is a reality that we have been reading about in
June 9, 2022
Ruskin Bond is one of those authors that take us to a place through his stories and makes us witness the beauty of nature!
He is no doubt one of the most eminent Indian authors of all times and yes one of my favourite storytellers too.
I have two of his best collections already :
Night Train at Deoli
Small Town, Big Stories
and the stories in those were amazing.
And when yet another collection just came in I was thrilled to get my hands on it through @alephbookco
There are 15 short stories that bring nostalgia and heartfelt emotions.
This pitch-perfect collection brings together the very best tales he has written in the twenty-first century. The book starts with the title story, ‘Song of the Forest’, which has never been published before, and includes extraordinary pieces of fiction like ‘A Man Called Brain’, ‘Rhododendrons in the Mist’, and ‘Miracle at Happy Bazaar’. Dazzling, comic, and gripping, Song of the Forest is the latest masterpiece from India’s most beloved writer.
So definitely if you are a Ruskin bond fan, you must check this latest collection too.
He is no doubt one of the most eminent Indian authors of all times and yes one of my favourite storytellers too.
I have two of his best collections already :
Night Train at Deoli
Small Town, Big Stories
and the stories in those were amazing.
And when yet another collection just came in I was thrilled to get my hands on it through @alephbookco
There are 15 short stories that bring nostalgia and heartfelt emotions.
This pitch-perfect collection brings together the very best tales he has written in the twenty-first century. The book starts with the title story, ‘Song of the Forest’, which has never been published before, and includes extraordinary pieces of fiction like ‘A Man Called Brain’, ‘Rhododendrons in the Mist’, and ‘Miracle at Happy Bazaar’. Dazzling, comic, and gripping, Song of the Forest is the latest masterpiece from India’s most beloved writer.
So definitely if you are a Ruskin bond fan, you must check this latest collection too.
June 9, 2022
Ruskin Bond is one of the most esteemed authors all over this globe and one of my favorites too.
The subtitle of the book says, "Tales from here, there, and everywhere"
The book consists of 15 short stories that are full of emotions, and that wistful feeling is beautifully expressed.
The very first chapter of the book made me read it to the last in which the author has told about his experiences when he was living in Mussoorie. Reading it, I felt that I was there already🤧
Likewise, the author has expressed the beauty of nature referring to different examples in multiple ways.
The writing style of the author is very easy and simple and eye-catching words have been used to attract the reader.
I highly recommend this book to the one who is willing to explore nature and wants to feel that pleasing vibe. Just go for it, you are going to have wonderful experiences while reading this book.
The subtitle of the book says, "Tales from here, there, and everywhere"
The book consists of 15 short stories that are full of emotions, and that wistful feeling is beautifully expressed.
The very first chapter of the book made me read it to the last in which the author has told about his experiences when he was living in Mussoorie. Reading it, I felt that I was there already🤧
Likewise, the author has expressed the beauty of nature referring to different examples in multiple ways.
The writing style of the author is very easy and simple and eye-catching words have been used to attract the reader.
I highly recommend this book to the one who is willing to explore nature and wants to feel that pleasing vibe. Just go for it, you are going to have wonderful experiences while reading this book.
January 14, 2024
Ruskin Bonds collection of short stories are the perfect cosy winter reads for reading during holidays and while battling post-holiday blues! I started reading this during a visit to Mussoorie and finished it with a trip to Mussoorie again. The best part according to me, about Mr. Bonds books is that you never know if he is narrating an experience out of his life or if it’s something out of his imagination. Some of these stories from this new collection - Song of the forest were new to me and some were stories I had already read previously in his other collections, but it was still very nostalgic to read them!
June 10, 2022
🥀Got an early copy of this wonderful book and I couldn't stop myself from binge reading it, haha! This is probably one of my most favorite reads from of the month. A collection that's new and exciting.
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The language is easy and Ruskin Bond fans shouldn't miss it at any cost. It's something that will connect with unforgettable characters and lessons that will stay with you for lifetime. Definitely recommended.
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Rating: 4.5⭐️
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The language is easy and Ruskin Bond fans shouldn't miss it at any cost. It's something that will connect with unforgettable characters and lessons that will stay with you for lifetime. Definitely recommended.
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Rating: 4.5⭐️
July 12, 2022
“Nothing much happens in Fosterganj”, says Mr Bond. The mountains and the sea, they remain steadfast. But, in the hustle bustle of human existence, even the nothingness has momentum.
This book is a collection of short stories. To me, every story felt crisp and gentle, like the summer breeze. Ruskin Bond’s wit is unmatched and I am glad I picked this to get me out of my reading slump.
This book is a collection of short stories. To me, every story felt crisp and gentle, like the summer breeze. Ruskin Bond’s wit is unmatched and I am glad I picked this to get me out of my reading slump.
November 1, 2024
A collections of rustic tales from Ruskin bond. I had read a few from this collection before. Some of the stories were quite short (about 4-6 pages or less). The most interesting ones in my opinion were the Dopellganger, a couple of ghost stories and the longest story (a novella) - the semi-autobiographical tales from Fosterganj.
May 8, 2022
15 writings (stories) of Ruskin Bond, some of them published elsewhere. Reading these brings out ones feeling for nature, wildlife, and human nature.
June 4, 2023
This is one of those books you imagine yourself reading, sitting next to a bonfire cozily wrapped up in your blanket sipping hot chocolate while it snows outside.
July 16, 2023
Collection of short stories by Mr. Bond ❤️
October 2, 2023
An absolute delight 🫰🏻
September 7, 2022
I keep forgetting how lovely it is to read Ruskin Bond. it always makes me want to start writing again but simultaneously feels like you have to have lived quite a lot of life to write anything entertaining
January 7, 2023
Ruskin's best indeed
Quintessential Bond at his nostalgic best. The memoirs are all well curated.
The Fosterganj novella size one is especially charming with all the genres making their appearance.
Quintessential Bond at his nostalgic best. The memoirs are all well curated.
The Fosterganj novella size one is especially charming with all the genres making their appearance.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews