Let’s take a stroll down the memory lane of school days, with the ever-charming company of Ruskin Bond. In “School Times,” we’re not just reading a book; we’re embarking on a journey through heartwarming tales spun by some of the finest storytellers in the genre.

Imagine a blend of love, friendship, loyalty, and a sprinkle of thrill – that’s what this book promises. It’s like sitting down for a feast, where every story is a delicately flavored dish, waiting to be savored.

Listen to the book review of School Times

A Cover That Invites Nostalgia

Ruskin Bond’s books always have this way of catching your eye with their covers. This one’s no different, featuring a school student lost in a book under a tree. It’s an inviting image, one that reminds us of the simple pleasures of childhood reading. The book targets middle and high schoolers, offering inspiration.

However, the connection between all stories and the book’s title, as claimed on the back cover, seems a bit loose. Not all tales are about school life, but each one has its own lesson to impart.

An Anthology of Favorites

• Picking up this book, you expect a collection of heartwarming stories, and it doesn’t disappoint. It’s like peeking into Ruskin Bond’s personal library, discovering what resonates with him. The first and last stories, penned by Bond himself, are like bookends that perfectly frame this collection, offering the joy and warmth characteristic of his writing.
• What’s fascinating about this collection is its journey back in time, with some stories dating back to the 19th century. Sure, the old English can be a hurdle, but think of it as a treasure hunt, where you’re enriching your vocabulary and getting a glimpse into school life from two centuries ago. It’s like stepping into a time machine, with words as your guide.

Stories That Touched the Heart

Every story in this collection has its charm, but some stand out. “My Grandmother and the Dirty English” by Aubrey Menen is a poignant exploration of cultural differences and similarities. Then there’s “A Pair of Steel Spectacles” by Richard Church, which takes you on a fantasy ride while keeping you grounded in the intricacies of everyday life.

“Ullie’s Dream” is a beautiful narrative of hope over fear, a story that tugs at your heartstrings. And “Undershorts and Roses” by Muzzafer Izgu, with its powerful ending, leaves an indelible mark.

• A Parent’s Perspective

  • “F. Anstey’s “What Happened to a Father Who Became a Schoolboy” is a story that flips the parent-child dynamic, offering a fresh perspective. It’s a narrative that makes you ponder your relationship with your children, seeing things from their viewpoint.

• Predictability vs. Uniqueness

  • While most stories are enlightening and entertaining, a few might feel predictable, especially if they’ve been adapted into movies or plays. However, Ruskin Bond’s own contributions, like “The Four Feathers” and “Getting Granny’s Glasses,” stand out with their simplicity and poignant charm.

• A Mixed Bag of Experiences

  • Not every story hits the mark, though. Tales like “The Phantom Ship Steered by a Dead Man’s Hand” by Matthew Henry Baker or “Charge” by Stephen Crane might come off as challenging or less inspiring. But that’s the beauty of an anthology – it’s a mixed bag, offering something for everyone.

A Literary Feast for All

“School Times” by Ruskin Bond transcends mere storytelling; it emerges as a rich tapestry woven with emotions, experiences, and epochs. Within its pages, Ruskin Bond’s imprint resonates not just through the tales he pens but also through the nostalgic reverie he inspires.

For both dedicated followers of Ruskin Bond and enthusiasts of short fiction alike, this literary offering stands as a repository of narratives that traverse time, yet strike a chord deep within. It escorts readers through the hallowed halls of educational institutions, the realms of imagination, and the meandering paths of existence, each narrative serving as a poignant marker along this captivating odyssey.

Hence, seize your copy, seek out a snug nook, and allow yourself to be whisked away into the enchanting realm of “School Times” by Ruskin Bond.

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