Are you someone who cherishes the notion of reading but is unsure of where to begin? If you are new to the realm of reading and want to cultivate a consistent reading practice, the crucial first step before delving into a book is to determine which literary work shall be your starting point.
As a beginner, selecting the perfect book holds immense importance since it sets the tone for a consistent reading habit. Yet, for non-readers, the daunting task of deciding what to read poses the greatest challenge.
In this captivating blog, I have handpicked three delightful books by the esteemed author Ruskin Bond, specially curated for beginners. These are small reads with less than 150 pages and can be completed within a few hours.
The Blue Umbrella
The first book on my list is "The Blue Umbrella." It is a short novella set in the hills of Garhwal, India. The story revolves around a little girl named Biniya, who acquires a beautiful Blue Umbrella from a group of tourists in exchange for her lucky leopard's claw necklace. As Biniya takes possession of the captivating blue umbrella, she unknowingly becomes the object of jealousy for some villagers, including an old shopkeeper named Ram Bharosa, who is determined to obtain the umbrella at any cost.
The rest of the story delves into the unfolding events as material possession begins to overshadow the tranquillity of the shopkeeper, Ram Bharosa.
The story explores themes of materialism, jealousy, and the consequences of one's actions. It delves into the complexities of human emotions, highlighting the transformative power of empathy, compassion, and forgiveness, ultimately paving the way for personal growth.
The writing style is simple, and the author's evocative storytelling transports readers to the enchanting landscapes of the Garhwal hills. With his exquisite prose, Bond paints vivid pictures of the serene surroundings, evoking a strong sense of place. The mountains, valleys, and forests come alive, infusing the narrative with depth and richness.
And though it is a children's novella, readers of all ages will resonate with the story due to the author's heartwarming and thought-provoking narrative.
I highly recommend that new readers immerse themselves in this book to establish a daily reading practice.
Angry River
The second book I would like to recommend is "Angry River." It tells the story of a little girl named Sita, who resided on a secluded island encircled by a massive river alongside her grandparents. One day, Sita's grandmother fell ill, compelling her grandfather to rush her to the town hospital. In his absence, Sita found herself all alone. As the monsoon arrived, the river swelled, prompting Sita to hastily ascend a towering Peepal tree, as her grandfather had instructed her to do in case of rising water levels. However, the water continued to surge, causing the Peepal tree to uproot, leaving Sita adrift in its currents.
The rest of the story revolves around Sita's survival journey. Will she make it through?
Well, I am not going to give any spoilers here. To uncover the thrilling turn of events, you'll have to read the book and discover what unfolds next.
"Angry River" is a story that highlights bravery, compassion, and survival. It also reveals the unpredictable side of nature, transitioning from calm and peaceful to angry and destructive.
It's a page-turner, and you won't be able to put it down until you've reached the end. Reading this book can also help you overcome any reading slump you may be experiencing.
The Cherry Tree
The final book that I would like to recommend is "The Cherry Tree." It is a charming short story set in the Hills of Mussoorie, India. The tale follows a child named Rakesh, who absentmindedly tosses cherry seeds into his garden, soon forgetting about them. With the arrival of the monsoon, Rakesh notices a tiny cherry tree sapling sprouting from the ground. Excitedly, he shows the plant to his grandfather, who advises him to nurture it with care.
The Cherry tree also encountered various challenges in its growth. On one occasion, it was devoured by a goat, and another time, a grass cutter woman accidentally divided it into two parts. As the tree grew taller, Rakesh observed caterpillars and other insects feasting on its leaves. However, despite these obstacles, the tree persevered, flourishing into a magnificent sight adorned with blossoms and fruits. Rakesh finds himself astonished by his own actions, unable to believe that he can reap the rewards of a tree he had planted.
This book can be enjoyed while commuting or travelling. It presents a beautiful story that explores the relationship between a child and nature, showcasing how the child perceives this connection. The narrative delves into themes of survival, struggle, resilience, dedication, growth, responsibility, and pride.
So, these are my favourite reads by Ruskin Bond, which I believe are excellent choices for new readers or anyone looking to embark on a reading journey but struggling to decide what to read.
To be honest, these three novellas will serve as a morning coffee for the beginners.