The name Ruskin Bond is synonymous with enchanting storytelling. He has captivated readers for decades with his evocative narratives set against the backdrop of the picturesque Indian landscapes. With an impressive repertoire of over a hundred books, Bond has become one of India’s most cherished and beloved authors. From his heartwarming tales of childhood adventures to his poignant observations on life’s simple pleasures, each of Bond’s works holds a special place in the hearts of readers young and old.
A self-proclaimed compulsive diarist, Bond has maintained a diary since his school days. This habit allowed him to preserve precious memories that would have otherwise faded away.
Published in 2002, when the author was twenty years younger, Landour Days is a compilation of his diary entries. Divided into four sections – Summer, Monsoon, Autumn, and Winter – each section further delves into specific months, starting from April and concluding in March.
Landour, a magical place, captivates all who visit. With its mystical mountains, charming streets, lush greenery, timeless forests, and diverse wildlife, this serene landscape serves as a tranquil retreat for Bond. His words, nearly akin to devotion, demonstrate his love for a place he has called home for decades.
However, Landour Days is not solely about Bond’s experiences in Landour. It offers so much more to its readers.
The book shares glimpses of Bond’s everyday life, his profound connection with nature, his long walks in the hills, and his interactions with locals and fellow writers. It recounts his encounters with both charming and less pleasant individuals.
Moreover, Landour Days delves into Bond’s writing journey and life as an author, encapsulated perfectly in his statement: “In the autumn of my life, I grow reflective.”
The book introduces readers to various writers whom Bond has crossed paths with and whose works he admires. It explores seemingly trivial yet significant topics through the eyes of the writer, such as handwriting, typewriters, critics, and aspiring writers.
A special highlight of the book is an excerpt from a heartfelt letter penned by Bond’s father, sent to a nine-year-old Ruskin almost eighty years ago. The book also reveals other treasured memories from his childhood, cherished moments that hold immense value.
The writing gracefully meanders, mirroring Bond’s contemplative state of mind. Attempting to categorize this book into a single genre would be a disservice, for it is a rich tapestry of stories and lifetime recollections that shape the author’s very being.
Landour Days is a book that goes beyond being a mere memoir or travelogue. It is a testament to the depth and breadth of Ruskin Bond’s experiences and his ability to capture the essence of life in his words. Through his vivid storytelling, Bond invites readers to immerse themselves in the beauty of Landour and the intricacies of his own journey as a writer.
For fans of Ruskin Bond, this book is a treasure trove of memories and insights into the mind of a literary genius. And for those new to his works, Landour Days offers an enchanting introduction to the magic that lies within the pages of his books.