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The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond | Book Review and Summary

  • September 20, 2020
  • Children's Literature

The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond Summary Cover

The celebrated Indian children’s author Ruskin Bond’s story, The Blue Umbrella , has gained immense popularity since its publication in 1980. It is one of the most-read stories. The narrative revolves around an unassuming young girl whose selflessness and compassion triumph over greed and materialism, making it a tale of extraordinary humanity.

The Blue Umbrella has been included in several of Ruskin Bond’s collections of short stories, including A Gathering of Friends and Children’s Omnibus, among others. Its widespread acclaim led to its adaptation into a Hindi movie bearing the same title in 2005. Furthermore, Amar Chitra Katha publications, a prominent publisher of comic books in India, transformed the story into a graphic novel in 2012 titled The Blue Umbrella – Stories by Ruskin Bond.

Set in the picturesque hills of Garhwal, the fictional narrative explores the fundamental values of selflessness and contentment through the lens of a young girl’s heroic deeds. The Blue Umbrella serves as a poignant reminder to re-examine our priorities. It encourages us to let go of worldly desires for genuine happiness. It is a captivating story that lingers in our minds long after reading, prompting introspection and reflection.

This is the story of a cheerful little girl Binya, who lives with her mother and an elder brother Bijju, in the hills of Garhwal. One day, while herding her cows back home, she comes across some picnickers in the hills. They had a beautiful Blue Umbrella. Binya fell in love with the umbrella at first sight. In exchange for her lucky Leopard claw pendant, she acquires that umbrella.

This umbrella brings unbound happiness in Binya’s life, she carries it everywhere with her, and it becomes the talk of the town. This newfound fame brought with it jealousy and envy from some of the villagers. One old shopkeeper Rambharosa eyed this treasured possession of Binya and decided to own it by any means. He offers to buy the beautiful umbrella, which Binya refuses flatly, making him sad over his position. In the middle of the monsoon, he employs a boy Rajaram from the neighboring town, as a helper in his shop. Rajaram was a shrewd boy. After learning of Rambharosa’s fancy for the umbrella, he strikes a deal with him of getting him the umbrella to prove his worth. He then steals Binya’s blue umbrella and blames it on him (Rambharosa) to save his own skin after being caught by Bijju after a great fight. Everybody in the village believes him without any second thought, as they are all well aware of Rambharosa’s obsession with that umbrella. This brought an ill name to Rambharosa, and the villagers stopped buying from his shop. Seeing the poor shopkeeper’s plight, Binya empathized and decided to gift the umbrella to him. The little girl put Rambharosa’s happiness above her own and was ready to part with her most loved possession. In return, Rambharosa also showed kindness by first trying to return the umbrella and then gifting Binya the lucky bear claw pendant, hence proving that kindness will always attract kindness. Rambharosa told everyone that Binya had gifted him this umbrella. Villagers started to buy from his shop again.

But had she loved the umbrella too much? Had it mattered more to her than people matter?

Themes and Motifs

The Blue Umbrella explores the themes of kindness and forgiveness in a world full of selfishness and envy. The little hero of the story, Binya, embodies these virtues as she expresses her compassion towards the person who tried to snatch her priciest possession. Displaying a magnanimous gesture, she forgives the old shopkeeper and gifts him the umbrella without any hesitation. The story also touches upon the perils of jealousy and envy, which can lead people to do hurtful things. The change of heart in Rambharose towards the end is a potent reminder that small acts of kindness can leave a significant impact on people.

The motif of the story is the beautiful Blue Umbrella that symbolizes beauty, richness, and something unattainable due to its exclusiveness. Binya’s possession of the umbrella sets her apart from the other village people making her a target of envy and jealousy. This Blue Umbrella kept occurring time and time again in the story, from making Binya the talk of the town to making her realize the true meaning of happiness in the end.

What is the moral of the story The Blue Umbrella

The story teaches us the ultimate lessons of humility, kindness and humanity. As the story progresses, this seemingly children’s story turns into a mature tale with the deep message. The little girl’s kindness and humility made her a bigger and happier person, and turns a shrewd Rambharosa into a friendly and pleasant person. It also shows the dangers of materialism and how selfishness can damage one’s reputation leading to loneliness. The story’s moral can be summed up in one expression by Binya in the story, “But an umbrella isn’t everything”.

But an umbrella isn't everything.

Literary Significance

The Blue Umbrella is a beautifully written story that showcases Ruskin Bond’s mastery of the craft. Bond’s prose is simple yet evocative, painting a vivid picture of life in the Himalayas. The story is also notable for its use of symbolism and imagery, particularly the blue umbrella motif.

Happiness is living your childhood… and every time I read this book, it takes me back to my childhood when I lived in Nainital, Uttarakhand. I, along with my friends used to climb on the Pine-clad hills every Sunday. Oh my, what days!

I just love Ruskin Bond because he connects me instantly with the best days of my life as most of his stories are set up on those serene hilly areas, and The Blue Umbrella is one such story. I am sure this beautiful novella will definitely touch a chord not only with the young readers but also with all those adults who still have child inside them.

I liked everything about this book! I liked the simple yet engaging story. I liked the setting of the story; the lucid writing style of Ruskin Bond ; the characterization of Binya; the way the story progresses and portrays various emotions like innocence, love, possessiveness, jealousy, empathy and kindness.

I like author’s style of giving a message through a simple tale. I liked The Blue Umbrella .

The Blue Umbrella has captured the hearts of readers worldwide, becoming a beloved classic. Its themes, motif and symbols are timeless and resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds. The story teaches us valuable lessons about compassion and kindness and serves as a reminder that we should not define people by their material possessions but by their actions and attitudes towards others.

Character Sketch of Binya in the novel - The Blue Umbrella book

Binya is the most important character in the novel The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond. Binya is a lovely hilly girl who lives in a tiny family in the hilly areas of Garhwal. Her father passed away when she was just two years old. To provide food for their family, they have three tiny terraced fields on which they cultivate onions, potatoes, ginger, beans, maize, and mustard. They don’t offer the produce in the marketplace, but they do keep the produce for themselves. They also have two cows named Neelu and Gori, from which they get additional milk to give to the public. The primary goal of their lives is self-sufficiency, not money-making. Binya’s brother Bijju is a student. She doesn’t go to any school but takes care of two cows. Binya loves adventuring in the mountains and valleys. She isn’t afraid of darkness, woods, or climbing trees. She cherishes opportunity, too. Subsequently, at whatever point cows go out with her, she never shouts at them nor controls them to a great extent. She seems to be lost in her own thoughts. One day when she goes over certain picnickers from the city, she understands that city people have distinctive ways of life and satisfaction. They are rich and have great things, similar to a blue umbrella. It is pitiful to note that city people viewed her as a helpless young lady since she wore torn garments. She looks at them in a good way; it implies she doesn’t care about being with individuals. Frequently hilly people don’t favor blending into the group. Additionally, she feels anxious when she is at the marketplace. Binya isn’t eager to sell her tiger claw pendant, even when city people offer her five rupees for it. City folk may not understand the value of this natural item, but to Binya it’s priceless. Instead, she decided to have that blue umbrella for that tiger claw pendant. Binya is not just a compassionate person, she is also very caring and helpful. She is always willing to go out of her way to help others, and she is always quick to lend a hand. She allows the town’s children to hold her umbrella for a brief time. One breezy evening when her umbrella gets snatched up by the breeze into a ravine, she cautiously, with a decent good judgment, follows it and gets it out from the cherry tree. She wasn’t anxious about anything. Her relationship with Ram Bharosa, the shopkeeper and tea shop owner, turns sour when he unfairly attempts to contain her blue umbrella. After that episode, Ram Bharosa’s shop business decays, and Binya feels liable for his misfortune. She reproaches herself for displaying the umbrella over the cutoff, she gifts the blue umbrella to him so that people start revisiting  his shop. Regarding her looks, Binya is reasonable, bold, fair, and durable, with dark hair and eyes. She sports a little braid. However, Binya is an ordinary girl, like most youngsters her age, yet her ethics like empathy, charity, and strength make her stand apart from the group.

Character Sketch of Ram Bharosa in the novel - The Blue Umbrella book

Ram Bharosa is a moderately old businessperson who owns a tea shop on Tehri road. He also sells sodas, curd, and toffees, mostly food items in his shop. A bus stops at his store each day, and passengers sip tea or consume curd. He is the most lavish man in the town. However, he’s also highly greedy too. He often lets people or students take things for granted by praising them. At the moment of reckoning and then charges them an additional fee, and if they cannot pay, they can take a chunk of their most valuable possessions to use themselves or sell in his store.

However, Binya and her brother Bijju aren’t apathetic to his snarky behavior. They’re very cautious of him. Ram Bharosa is greedy for the blue umbrella. He must have it therefore, he offers a price of twelve rupees Binya but with no result. When he notices Binya walking in front of his shop, he attempts to draw her but with any success. He gets sad over his position. In the middle of the monsoon, he employs one of his children named Rajaram from the town adjacent as a right hand in his shop. Rajaram, shrewd, promises to take the umbrella from him for the cost of 3 Rs. This Ram Bharosa concurs hesitatingly. To counter their arrangement, he reads up the latest news as he steals the umbrella.

The word was spread throughout the town that Ram Bharosa tried to get the umbrella by influencing people with untrustworthy methods. The people stopped coming to his store since, in the hills, trustworthiness is possibly the most rewarded virtue, and he was annoyed by it. The kids teased him by saying, “the trustworthy thief. After witnessing Ram Bharosa’s desperate situation, Binya chooses to help him. So, one day, she gives him an umbrella and some leaves. This aids in improving his appearance in the community. To repay this blessing, Ram Bharosa gets made an ornament from a bear’s claw and presented it to her. This is considered to be more blessed than the panther or the tiger. We eventually discover that Binya’s compassion and kindness help Ram Bharosa recover his independent business of the shops. After that, based on the picture of the child Binya, Ram Bharosa returns to his path of reliability.

Character Sketch of Bijju in the novel - The Blue Umbrella book

Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond is a well-known book focusing on Binya and her elder brother Bijju. The novel revolves around Binya and her adorable blue umbrella, but we also see interesting characters like Bijju and Ram Bharosa. This write-up will look at Bijju as the book’s third main character. Bijju’s real name was Vijay Kumar; however, in the lower regions of the Himalayas, it is customary to refer to people using their nicknames. For Binyadevi, it is Binya, while for Vijay Kumar, it is Bijju.

Bijju is a 12-year-old boy and wears a claw of a leopard on his neck, just like his younger sister Binya aged ten years. age. But we can find excellent harmony and love between sister siblings, but they differ in their attitudes. Binya is kind to cattle Neelu and Gori and Gori, whereas Bijju is quite a hot kid. So, whenever it’s dull, he herds the cows in a hurry to get home. In addition, Binya and Bijju share the same viands. This is evident when Bijju gives his blueberries to Binya. Additionally, they often go to the shop of Ram Bharosa for food items or to buy toffees that they can eat.

Another thing about Bijju is that he comes to school each day, which proves he’s a capable and diligent student. As with Binya or other children who are hilly, Bijju also is a courageous child. He’s not afraid of darkness, haze, snakes, or wild animals and is completely intolerant of honey bees. In the past, he had separated one colony of bees and the honey bees on all over his body. Since then, he’s been resistant to the honeybees. Due to their obligation to society, he on the land during monsoons to sow rice. If there is no school in the dry season, he gives milk to a few people in the town.

Binya and Bijju are not legitimate, and Bijju is aware of this fact somewhere. He isn’t doing anything to upset his mother and Binya. He does not shy away from dealing with his mother and younger sister. At the moment that Rajaram is the child Ram Bharosa employs, he takes and attempts to escape with the blue umbrella belonging to Binya, it’s Bijju who pursues him and can retrieve the umbrella. Although the story is centered on Binya and her beautiful blue umbrella, Bijju is a significant person who assists the overall story.

Binya’s Blue Umbrella Questions & Answers

Most frequent questions and answers.

Binya received the blue umbrella when she gifted her charm – a leopard’s claw pendant to Mem-Saheb in exchange for an umbrella.

Ram Bharosa was the trusty shopkeeper in the village. Binya and Bijju would come to him to purchase toffees.

Ram Bharosa was astonished by Binya’s blue umbrella.

Ram Bharosa offers Binya twelve rupees for her umbrella, but she does not accept the proposal.

Everybody on the road looked at Binya and was amazed at her beautiful blue umbrella.

As Binya was resting, a breeze rose gently across the forest, whispering. Then, shortly after, it joined random gusts that swept across the top of the mountain range. The trees shrugged, the wind swayed her cheeks, and the umbrella flew out of the way.

Binya had to be cautious to avoid triggering a landslide because once the stones began to tumble down, the slide would carry more stones and stop at the lowest point.

Binya received the blue umbrella as a reward in exchange for her pendant.

Binya could keep the umbrella open regardless of the circumstances, even though it wasn’t supposed to be. However, when she was at her house, she would keep it to the side of the room with the umbrella not unfolded. Everyone loved the umbrella, and they would always try to get to know Binya so that she could allow them to hold her beautiful umbrella for a time.

Binya performed the most challenging task. Crawling up the tree’s trunk to catch it was the most challenging task. Binya was sitting under the shade of the pine tree, and the umbrella was still in its open and lying on her. While she was sleeping, an erupting wind came up and was followed by other gusts of random wind that swept over the tops of the mountain.

The book beautifully illustrates that there is no need for an object to be content. If we are in love with something, the love fades away at some point. However, the love between people doesn’t fade away so quickly. Binya gives up her umbrella to enjoy the joy that Ram Bharosa got because of it. The result makes him a more comfortable and pleasant person.

It is vital to show the value of kindness throughout our lives. Students will be able to see how selfishness and materialism can be detrimental to society and demonstrate the benefits of friendship and generosity via Binya and Ram Bharosa.

The most challenging task was slogging across the tree trunk, which stood at an angle from the high cliff, to get the umbrella out.

Binya receives a gorgeous blue umbrella from a group of foreigners in exchange for a pendant made of leopard claws. Eventually, Binya willingly gives the umbrella to Ram Bharosa, and he, in turn, presents her with an adorable bear claw pendant.

Binya can’t stand the free sight of her umbrella that is colored with depths of skies. Binya gifts the blue umbrella to Ram Bharosa so people can again begin going to his shop.

Ram Bharosa is a selfish and greedy person in the novel.

Vijay Kumar is the actual name of Bijju. Bijju was his nickname.

Video - The Blue Umbrella English Summary

Video - the blue umbrella hindi summary.

I hope you enjoyed reading this review! Don’t miss your chance to explore the 63 most extraordinary narratives by Ruskin Bond .

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Book review: the blue umbrella by ruskin bond.

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Heartwarming Simplicity: ‘The Blue Umbrella’ Book Review

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Book Title: “The Blue Umbrella” Author: Ruskin Bond Genre: Children’s Fantasy Publication Date: 1980

Introduction

“The Blue Umbrella” by Ruskin Bond is a heartwarming tale set in the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, India. This novella beautifully captures the essence of human kindness, simplicity, and the innocence of village life.

In this review, we explore the charm and lessons of “The Blue Umbrella” and why it continues to resonate with readers of all ages.

A Glimpse into “The Blue Umbrella”

First published in 1980 , “The Blue Umbrella” tells the story of a little girl named Binya , who lives in a small village in the hills. She becomes the proud owner of a beautiful blue umbrella, which quickly becomes the envy of the entire village, especially a shopkeeper named Ram Bharosa.

The novella explores how the desire for something beautiful can affect relationships and teaches profound lessons about contentment and generosity.

Unpacking the Umbrella’s Charm

Ruskin Bond’s storytelling is a celebration of simplicity. Through his vivid descriptions and relatable characters, he paints a picturesque image of village life, with its small joys and subtle rivalries.

Bond’s narrative invites readers to reflect on the nature of human desires and the importance of letting go, presenting an engaging tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Lessons of Kindness and Forgiveness

At its heart, “The Blue Umbrella” is a story about kindness, forgiveness, and the human tendency toward envy. Binya’s innocence and generosity stand in stark contrast to Ram Bharosa’s initial greed, highlighting the transformative power of kindness.

The novella serves as a gentle reminder that true happiness lies not in material possessions but in acts of compassion and understanding.

The Blue Umbrella Book Cover

The Blue Umbrella

  • She was always ready with her smile, and would willingly have lent it to anyone who was feeling unhappy.
  • The umbrella was like a flower, a great blue flower that had sprung up on the dry brown hillside.
  • Binya was quite sturdy, fair of skin, with pink cheeks and dark eyes and her black hair tied in a pigtail.

A Literary Delight

Ruskin Bond’s writing is known for its simplicity, warmth, and elegance, and “The Blue Umbrella” is no exception.

His language is accessible, making the story enjoyable for readers of all ages. Bond’s ability to evoke the serene beauty of the hills and capture the subtle emotions of his characters makes the novella a delightful read that lingers in the mind long after the last page.

You would also like to read: A Review of “Wings of Fire”

Lessons from the Hills

Personally, reading “The Blue Umbrella” was a nostalgic journey. The story’s gentle pace, endearing characters, and the universal message of kindness reminded me of the simple joys of childhood and the value of empathy.

It’s a book that can be revisited time and again, each reading offering a renewed sense of peace and reflection.

Key Lessons from “The Blue Umbrella”

  • Kindness and generosity can transform relationships and bring true joy.
  • Envy and greed often lead to regret; letting go brings peace.
  • True contentment comes from appreciating what you have, not coveting what others possess.
  • Forgiveness is a powerful act that heals both the giver and the receiver.
  • Simple acts of kindness can create ripples of positive change in a community.
  • The beauty of life often lies in small, everyday moments.
  • Possessions can bring temporary happiness, but compassion and empathy bring lasting fulfillment.
  • Embrace simplicity and cherish the little things that make life beautiful.

A Must-Read for All Ages

“The Blue Umbrella” is a must-read for anyone who appreciates simple, heartwarming stories. Its themes of kindness, humility, and forgiveness are universal, making it a perfect read for children, teens, and adults alike.

Bond’s narrative effortlessly transports readers to the quiet hills, leaving them with a renewed sense of joy and contentment.

Embracing Simplicity with “The Blue Umbrella”

In conclusion, “The Blue Umbrella” is a charming and enduring tale that captures the beauty of human nature. Ruskin Bond’s storytelling is a gentle reminder of the power of kindness and the importance of letting go of envy.

This novella is not just a story about a blue umbrella; it’s a celebration of life’s simple yet profound truths.

Ready to Experience the Magic of Ruskin Bond? Get Your Copy of “The Blue Umbrella” Here: Get “The Blue Umbrella” on Amazon

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The Melodramatic Bookworm

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The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond | Mini Book Gush

the blue umbrella story book review

I’ll start off by saying this: Ruskin Bond is pure genius in his simplicity. His stories are simple, yet carry a message that resonates with every reader in some form or the other. While The Cherry Tree shows the positives that comes from patiently nurturing trees (or people close to you, if you’re thinking metaphorically), The Blue Umbrella shows the stark delineation between adult and children’s thinking.

Ruskin Bond’s stories come to life in the mountains, thanks to his connection with them. Bond has been living in Mussoorie for years now with his adopted family. Living among purity, clouds, and greenery is something I envy him; not more than his writing, of course. I wish I had the power to write simply yet with an underlying message that hits home.

Book cover for The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

The Blue Umbrella follows the simple story of Binya, a mountain girl, who chances upon a blue umbrella and gets it for herself in exchange for her lucky charm. The entire village becomes envious of the umbrella, including the shopkeeper, Ram Bharosa, who tries to buy the beautiful umbrella from Binya. When she refuses, he is disappointed. His greed for the umbrella grows and he has the chance to get it with the help of a boy he has employed. What happens when Binya realizes what has happened, how Ram Bharosa suffers, and how Binya’s large heart allows her to give up the umbrella that she holds close to her heart forms the rest of the story.

Ruskin Bond has, with the help of The Blue Umbrella , shown children’s innocence with utmost sincerity and precision, as is his forte. In addition to this, he has also shown how greed can destroy a human being. A child is much more empathetic to the problems faced by people around them, without being selfish, and without being vindictive. The points subtly put across by this story make you think about perspectives and priorities in life.

It took me less than 45 minutes to finish this book, but the lessons given out by it will stay with me for the rest of my life.

After all, the name’s Bond. Ruskin Bond.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Until next time, keep reading and add melodrama to your life! 🙂

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my rating is total 10/infinite

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should read it once

Absolutely 🙂

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"The Blue Umbrella" Summary

By Ruskin Bond

fiction | 83 pages | Published in NaN

Estimated read time: 5 min read

One Sentence Summary

A young girl's blue umbrella becomes the talk of the town in a heartwarming tale by Ruskin Bond.

Table of Contents

Introduction, brief synopsis, main characters, summary of story points, main events, themes and insights, reader's takeaway.

"The Blue Umbrella" is a heartwarming novella written by Ruskin Bond. Set in a small village in the picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh, India, the story revolves around a young girl named Binya and her prized possession, a beautiful blue umbrella. This delightful tale explores themes of innocence, jealousy, and the power of material possessions.

The story is set in the fictional village of Garhwal, where Binya, a young girl from a humble background, lives with her family. One day, while Binya is out in the market, she comes across a group of tourists. Among them is a kind-hearted Japanese tourist who gifts her a blue umbrella in exchange for her lucky charm. Binya falls in love with the umbrella instantly and it becomes her most precious possession.

As Binya proudly shows off her blue umbrella to the villagers, jealousy begins to brew in the heart of Ram Bharosa, a shopkeeper who desires the umbrella for himself. Ram Bharosa hatches a plan to acquire the umbrella by offering Binya a beautiful leopard's claw pendant in exchange. Binya, tempted by the pendant, agrees to the trade.

However, Binya soon realizes the value of her blue umbrella goes beyond material possessions. She longs for it and regrets her decision. In a twist of fate, the blue umbrella is stolen by a group of mischievous boys who use it as a plaything. Binya, devastated by the loss, sets out on a mission to find her beloved umbrella.

Chapter 1: The Blue Umbrella

  • Binya receives a blue umbrella as a gift from a Japanese tourist.
  • She shows off her new possession to the villagers.

Chapter 2: The Leopard's Claw

  • Ram Bharosa offers Binya a leopard's claw pendant in exchange for the blue umbrella.
  • Binya agrees to the trade, unaware of Ram Bharosa's ulterior motives.

Chapter 3: The Umbrella is Lost

  • Binya regrets trading her blue umbrella as she realizes its true value.
  • The blue umbrella is stolen by some mischievous boys.

Chapter 4: The Search for the Umbrella

  • Binya embarks on a mission to find her lost blue umbrella.
  • She follows clues and encounters various obstacles along the way.

Chapter 5: The Umbrella Found

  • Binya eventually finds her blue umbrella in the possession of the boys who stole it.
  • The village celebrates the return of the beloved umbrella.
  • Binya receives the blue umbrella from the Japanese tourist.
  • Ram Bharosa tricks Binya into trading the umbrella for a pendant.
  • The umbrella is stolen by some boys.
  • Binya sets out to find her lost umbrella.
  • Binya successfully retrieves the umbrella from the boys.

Innocence and Material Possessions

The novella explores the innocence of childhood and how material possessions can hold great value in the eyes of a child. Binya's blue umbrella becomes a symbol of her happiness and pride, highlighting the significance of simple pleasures.

Jealousy and Greed

The story also delves into the darker side of human nature, portraying the destructive power of jealousy and greed. Ram Bharosa's desire for the umbrella leads him to manipulate and deceive, ultimately causing unhappiness for both himself and Binya.

Value of Friendship and Community

Through Binya's journey to find her lost umbrella, the story emphasizes the importance of friendship and the support of the community. The villagers come together to help Binya in her search, showcasing the strength of unity and compassion.

"The Blue Umbrella" is a charming tale that reminds us of the innocent joys of childhood and the true value of relationships over material possessions. It serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate the simple things in life and to be wary of the destructive power of jealousy and greed.

Ruskin Bond's "The Blue Umbrella" is a delightful novella that takes readers on a journey through the beautiful hills of Himachal Pradesh. With its engaging plot and relatable characters, the story captures the essence of childhood innocence and explores themes of jealousy, greed, and the importance of community. This heartwarming tale serves as a valuable reminder to cherish the simple joys in life and to prioritize relationships over material possessions.

The Blue Umbrella FAQ

Who is the author of 'the blue umbrella'.

The author of 'The Blue Umbrella' is Ruskin Bond.

What is the genre of 'The Blue Umbrella'?

'The Blue Umbrella' is a children's fiction book.

What is the main theme of 'The Blue Umbrella'?

The main theme of 'The Blue Umbrella' is the power of kindness and compassion.

Where is the story of 'The Blue Umbrella' set?

The story of 'The Blue Umbrella' is set in a small village in the hills of Himachal Pradesh, India.

What is the story about?

The story of 'The Blue Umbrella' revolves around a young girl named Binya who comes into possession of a beautiful blue umbrella and the jealousy it arouses in the village.

Is 'The Blue Umbrella' suitable for all age groups?

Yes, 'The Blue Umbrella' is suitable for readers of all age groups, particularly children and young adults.

Is 'The Blue Umbrella' a standalone book or part of a series?

'The Blue Umbrella' is a standalone book and does not belong to any series.

What is the writing style of Ruskin Bond in 'The Blue Umbrella'?

Ruskin Bond's writing style in 'The Blue Umbrella' is simple, descriptive, and engaging, making it accessible to readers of all ages.

Has 'The Blue Umbrella' won any awards?

Yes, 'The Blue Umbrella' has won several awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award for English Writing in India.

Can I find a movie adaptation of 'The Blue Umbrella'?

Yes, 'The Blue Umbrella' has been adapted into a Bollywood film of the same name, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj.

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Diary Tale

The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond | Book review | Spoiler-free

Hey folks! Welcome back to the reader’s corner. In this blog post, I am reviewing a book, maybe another short story. The month of June was a kind of a whirlwind for me. Because I have been doing different pieces of stuff, that is off my calendar. Maybe I think this is how it goes nowadays. But I liked that! So, getting on the review, the title of the book is,

THE BLUE UMBRELLA

Sounds interesting? Let’s dive in.

About ‘The Blue Umbrella’

The book THE BLUE UMBRELLA is written by Ruskin Bond in 1980. It is an Indian fiction novel. It clubbed with other short stories of Ruskin Bond called Children’s Omnibus. Later it was adapted into a film under the same name. The author has written hundreds of novels, short stories, and poems that are very beautiful. His works are mainly for children.

Description of the book

A young girl, Binya, lives in a village called Garhwal with her mother and brother. She wears a leopard nail as a lucky charm. When she sees a beautiful silk blue umbrella, she immediately likes it and wants that to be hers. So, she trades her lucky charm for the blue umbrella with the owner. But then comes the problem everyone in the village desires for that beautiful blue umbrella, especially the small tea shop owner, Ram Bharosa, who sells many sweets, Coca-Cola, etc. He is also greatly respected by the villagers. What happens when the desire for materials turns to the worst events is the rest of the story.

the blue umbrella

I think the book is written for the children because it ended with a moral. But the moral is soo valuable even for adults. Although adults know what is right and wrong, sometimes they forget them. So, these short stories help them to remember them. And the main thing is the story is so small yet it is to the point without dragging.

In case if you are looking to buy this book, let me make it easier. Here is the Amazon link for this book. Click, own a copy, and enjoy reading. Link – The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond.

If you are looking for similar book review posts, then you must definitely check out my previous blog posts. Here is the link – Readers’ Corner.

*P.P.S. Thanks to those who showed continuous support via subscriptions & social media.

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5 thoughts on “ the blue umbrella by ruskin bond | book review | spoiler-free ”.

Good work! your review always motivates me to read books,, keep doing.

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the blue umbrella story book review

The Blue Umbrella

The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

The beautiful yet frail but strong umbrella, so pretty, that everyone is envious of a little girl in the village near Tehri, had to be the protagonist in this story. The plot revolves around the world of this little girl named Binya in a small village but with a big heart.

Must Read: Complete List of the Best Books by Ruskin Bond

The book is about temptations, desire and happiness which sometimes turn to greed and become treacherous. It is about seeking happiness in small spheres of life and letting the genius revealed in moments of adversities.

The simple yet powerful writing style of the author is commendable and his imagination has a heartwarming approach. This collection of words is expressive of exuberance in the life of people living in hilly areas and is close to the heart of the author as his native place.

Different people with different attitudes account to a sense of belonging towards what is right and what is wrong especially when it comes to little kids.

Here, in this story, in a child’s perspective, it is a wonderful journey of the umbrella, rather a risk worthy umbrella, from one hand to another embodying perplexing approach to how to deal with this beauty.

Not only children would enjoy his story but adults will also find it joyous in its subtleties. It is a must read for the young children in order to help them develop empathy and compassion towards other people.

It is a highly recommended book on the list. And for adults, it is a means of teaching themselves that power with empathy is the only way to success instead of power with arrogance.

  • Writing Style

The Book touches the various strings of humanity and makes us learn to spread happiness wherever possible. The words written will melt you in emotions!

My Thoughts

I started this book being curious enough to explore the world of kids stories and their impact and I found it pretty much influencing. The soft critical perspective would be that the author has flamboyantly exaggerated the place and the characters. Other than that, everything is so soft and intriguing.

I love the fact that as a reader, the book is enormously gripping and you cannot put this down without completing it and ending with the awestruck feels.

The passion towards the umbrella is the metaphorical contrast to the little luxuries we seek in life. Take hold of the book as soon as possible otherwise, you’ll be honestly reading spoilers!

the blue umbrella story book review

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The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

'The umbrella was like a flower, a great blue flower that had sprung up on the dry brown hillside.'In exchange for her lucky leopard's claw pendant, Binya acquires a beautiful blue umbrella that makes her the envy of everyone in the village, espec...

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The Blue Umbrella – Ruskin Bond

During my childhood, when I had no clue about novels, I heard a name that some of the teachers would say at the school library – Ruskin Bond. Though I knew nothing about the man until a few years ago, the name fascinated me. And the more fascinated was I when I realized that he is an Anglo-Indian author, living in the Mussoorie. Since I started reading novels and stories, I wanted to read Ruskin Bond, but couldn’t. I have, at last, read the famous novella he wrote in 1974, The Blue Umbrella .

Plot Summary of The Blue Umbrella

The Blue Umbrella is a story about a young girl named Binya from the mountains of Himachal, who falls in love with a blue-coloured umbrella. She gets the umbrella in exchange for her leopard claw necklace from a tourist. Binya roams all over the town flaunting her new umbrella, the most beautiful one in the village.

Everyone, right from the school teacher’s wife to the pujari of the temple envies her for having it. Especially, Ram Bharose, a tea stall owner who desperately wants it. He tries to trick Binya, and her elder brother, Bijju, to acquire it but doesn’t succeed. In the end, Ruskin Bond delivers a great message, which is what makes The Blue Umbrella a fantastic children’s book.

Simplistic Beauty in The Blue Umbrella

Though it is a children’s novella, even adults can take a leaf or two from The Blue Umbrella. Ruskin Bond makes the readers realize how simple, beautiful, and subtle life can be. In the exhausting and mundane city life, we often suppress the calling from within to get back to the roots. The monotonous and materialistic life in the 21st century has robbed us of the simple joys of the world.

Ruskin Bond, even though in 1974, reminds us of the feeling of playing in the mud during the rains. The feeling of eating freshly roasted corn, soaking in the cool breeze, and the fragrance of soil gives you a solid kick of nostalgia in your gut. What’s strange is that everything about The Blue Umbrella is simple, nothing’s extraordinary. Yet, Ruskin Bond strikes a chord in your heart like no one else does!

One of the main messages that the author delivers in of greed and its consequences. First, it is depicted through the young lady, owner of the blue umbrella, and then through Ram Bharose and Rajaram. The subtlety with which he delivers the message is what differentiates him from others.

Entrance into the World of Ruskin Bond

Ruskin Bond

I have always wanted to read Ruskin Bond, and without a doubt, The Blue Umbrella is just the beginning. In fact, I have a strong feeling that this was the perfect book to start exploring the author. Ruskin Bond uses simple and palatable language as it is a children’s book. The Blue Umbrella can easily be one of the best beginner’s books.

Though the book is short – just over eighty pages – It still delivers a fulfilling experience. Ruskin Bond gives details where it matters and skips unnecessary stuff quite effortlessly.  All in all, The Blue Umbrella is a must-read for anyone looking for quick, simple, yet fulfilling stories.

Rating – 5/5

Looking for some more serious and heavy stuff? Check my review of the Animal Farm .

the blue umbrella story book review

Noman Shaikh is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Bombay Reads. He grew up in Mumbai, a city he loves more than any other, and currently works as a content consultant. His expertise lies in creating high-quality academic and marketing content in the form of blogs, articles, op-eds, etc. Noman has worked with reputed brands, including Economic Times (through Spiral Media), Coinbase (through MattsenKumar), AdEngage, Della Group, GBIM Technologies,  VAP Group, etc. For his published portfolio, click here . Contact Noman on noman@bombayreads for engagement.

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the blue umbrella story book review

BOOK REVIEW – THE BLUE UMBRELLA BY RUSKIN BOND

BY DAKSHITA NAITHANI

The Blue Umbrella has received widespread acclaim from readers and reviewers alike, and is considered one of Ruskin Bond’s best works. The narrative is brief and straightforward, yet it eloquently hits on a fundamental quality of humanity: compassion. Binya Ruskin instils a spirit of kindness in youngsters via his work. It’s a fantastic book that everyone should read. The author’s writing style is admirable since it is basic yet effective, and his imagination is warm and inviting. This collection of lines captures the enthusiasm of people living in mountainous places, a location dear to the author’s heart as his birthplace.

the blue umbrella story book review

Binya is a poor little girl who lives in a tiny mountainous village in Garhwal with her mother and older brother, Bijju. She comes upon some city folks enjoying a picnic in the valley one day while herding her two cows back home. She is captivated by their well-groomed appearance and wealth. She aspires to be like them, and amid their numerous possessions, a blue frilly umbrella strikes her eye. She has a strong desire for it. The city folks, on the other hand, are drawn to her naive beauty and the necklace around her neck. The pendant is made of a leopard’s claw, which is generally regarded as a mascot in the hills. Binya exchanges her necklace for a blue umbrella.

The blue umbrella is so lovely that it quickly becomes a topic of talk among the villagers, and the youngsters admire her umbrella so much that they want to touch or hold it at all times. Binya is in seventh heaven and only shuts it once in a while since she thinks it looks so lovely while it’s open.

Ram Bharosa owns a tiny shop without a refrigerator where he sells food, groceries, and soft beverages. He is so enamoured with the umbrella that he decides to acquire it under all circumstances. As a result, he makes Binya an offer to buy the umbrella. She, on the other hand, declines the offer. He is turned off by the refusal. He quickly recruits a youngster from a nearby hamlet to work in his business. Binya is out in the forest gathering porcupine quills when the boy, who is devoted to him, snatches the umbrella from her.

Bijju, ironically, catches the youngster. When the child discloses Ram Bharosa’s involvement in the theft, the locals shun him and refuse to visit his business. As a result, Ram Bharosa suffers a setback, and his livelihood is jeopardised. Binya is saddened by Ram Bharosa’s predicament and feels guilty for his suffering. She then gives Ram Bharosa her umbrella. In exchange, Ram gives her a pendant with a bear’s claw embedded in it, which is thought to be fortunate than a leopard’s.

When it comes to little children, various individuals with varied perspectives account for a sense of belonging when it comes to what is good and what is wrong.

In this narrative, it is a lovely trip of the umbrella, rather a risk worthy umbrella, from one hand to another, encapsulating a confusing attitude to how to cope with its beauty from the perspective of a youngster.

On the list, it is a highly recommended book. Adults may use it to educate themselves that power by empathy, rather than power via arrogance, is the only road to succeed. The author has flamboyantly inflated the setting and people, according to a mild critical viewpoint. Apart from that, everything is very gentle and enticing. The enthusiasm for the umbrella is a metaphor for our desire for small pleasures in life.

This book review was provided by a professional online writing service — WriteMyPaperHub. If you need to  write your own book review  and the deadline is scarily close, you can either compromise on quality and risk getting a bad grade, or delegate this task to a reliable writer online. Experts in writing book reports and other academic papers help thousands of students worldwide every day. They know the rules for these assignments and have read most of the syllabus for now, so they don’t need to spend extra time on it. Pay an expert writer to help you with this task, and focus on other assignments. 

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the blue umbrella story book review

Zenia Parpia

Nsn memorial senior secondary school.

  • Book Review

‘The Blue Umbrella’ Book Review by 13 year old Zenia Parpia from Chennai

  • October 6, 2020

The Blue Umbrella Book Review by kids Ruskin Bond Book Reviews with Sara Bookosmia

Today’s review is of a book, by the much celebrated Ruskin Bond.

The Blue Umbrella Book Review by kids Ruskin Bond Book Reviews with Sara Bookosmia

Title: The Blue Umbrella

Written by : Ruskin Bond

Illustrated by : Trevor Stubley

After seeing the cover page of “The Blue Umbrella,” I thought maybe it could be about rainy season.

But the creativity of Ruskin Bond surprised me .

I havent read such a creative, sweet story ever .

This story is about four peoples Binya , Bijju , Ram Bharosa , Ram Chandran.

The lead character in this story is Binya who had fair skin, pink cheeks, brown hair,  glass bangles on her hand, a necklace and loved nature . She is also  sensitive towards people .

Its about how Binya got the beautiful blue umbrella, how she protected the umbrella from wind , dust , rain, from villagers and especially from Ram Bharosa.

Binya protected the umbrella . In the process of protecting the umbrella, she  realized that unwantedly she heard the feelings of Ram Bharosa. Since he tried to steal, Binya took the help of Ram Chandran, who was working in Bharosa’s shop. Because of this all people stopped buying from his shop .

Seeing this Binya felt guilty and gave the blue umbrella to Bharosa. Meanwhile, Bharosa also realized his mistake. He called Binya and gave her a necklace  with a pear paw pendant which was considered lucky.

I loved the writing style, especially the usage of personification. It was interesting to read of non living  things having the character of living things.

My favourite part is when Binya gives the most important thing in her life to  Ram Bharosa. I learnt that human relations are more important than things.

This book is so interesting that I would give 5 out of 5* ratings

I would recommend this book for age 12 +

On a scale of 1-5, 5 being the highest

  • Ram Bharosa , Ruskin Bond , The Blue Umbrella , Trevor Stubley

One Response

A must-read for anyone looking for a story that celebrates the small moments in life and the power of imagination. The Blue Umbrella is simply stunning.

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The blue umbrella by ruskin bond : a review.

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Book Review: The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

  • Anisha Bajaj
  • May 18, 2018
  • Book Reviews

Book Review: The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

Ruskin Bond has been awarded many accolades (including Padmi Shri and Padma Bhushan awards) for his published works in English literature. One of his notable and outstanding work is “The Blue Umbrella” written in 1980. This short story has been adapted and recreated in several forms – a hindi movie by the same name, a children comic by Amar Chitra Katha publications, and a children’s Hindi-English play, Binya ki Chatri.

Any one will easily fall in love with the simplicity of the protagonist, Binya from the first page itself. Binya belongs to a village in the Himalayas known as Garhwal.  The beauty of this place and the village life leaves the readers awestruck.  The chirpy little sturdy girl has fair skin, pink cheeks, dark eyes, and a pigtail hair, with glass bangles on wrists and a necklace with a leopard’s claw, which was her lucky charm. One day, her attention was caught by some picnickers. One of the lady was carrying a beautiful blue umbrella. “ The umbrella was like a flower, a great blue flower that had sprung up on the dry brown hillside”.  Binya was mesmerised and she exchanged her lucky charm leopard’s claw necklace for the umbrella. Soon, she begun to flaunt her priced possession. Binya would not even close the umbrella. It became an envy for everyone especially the shopkeeper, Ram Bharose. Although the umbrella was not of much use to the shopkeeper but the urge to get it was making him restless, to the extent that he sold his integrities and his soul for it. Ram Bharose tried to have the umbrella stolen. Soon everyone loathed him and no one visited his store. The novel takes a beautiful twist when this sweet little innocent girl realises that it was best to part with HER MOST PRICED POSSESSION. And she did! She gifted it to Ram Bharose who was sceptical at first, but later was extremely happy. At this juncture, the story is a beautiful blend of so many emotions –

  • The girl’s realisation that the umbrella pretty much was the cause of Ram Bharose’s devastation and that he needed it more ;
  • Ram Bharose’s guilt that his desire had overcome his moral values;
  • The glee of receiving the umbrella as a gift and not by theft experienced by Ram Bharose;
  • The insight by Binya that after all, the umbrella is not everything!

The story ends on a happy note when Ram Bharose after some days, gifts Binya a necklace with a bear’s claw.

A delightful, relatable and an enchanting tale of kindness that keeps the readers hooked onto each and every word.

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  • June 20, 2018

The Lifestyle Portal by Tanya Munshi

The Blue Umbrella Book Review

the blue umbrella story book review

Have you ever wondered if desire can lead to the pursuit of goodness? What is the difference between desire and ambition?

The novella “The Blue Umbrella” by legendary Ruskin Bond answers such questions in a simple yet beautiful style published by Rupa Publication in 1980 for children (8-10 years old). The impeccable story was later directed by Vishal Bharadwaj in 2005 with slight changes in the story. Although the box office collection bared a loss, the film won the hearts of critics, and it won the National Film Award for the Best Children’s Film, 2007.

Meet Binya…

The story revolves around the hills of the Himalayas, known as Garhwal, where a man named Ram Bharosa ran a tea stall. In the same village, a small girl named Binya lived with an elder brother Biju and her mother.

The introvert Binya is roughly nine to eleven years old, who comes across holidaymakers from urban areas. Elegant dress and exotic food were enough to hold her attention, but anything that led her to interpret the stylish crowd was the blue umbrella laid open on the ground among them. The urbanites noticed her beauty and the glass beaded necklace that had a leopard’s claw. Immediately her necklace caught the eye of everyone.

The young woman who owned the blue umbrella took the opportunity to trade her umbrella with Binya’s necklace. Binya desired the umbrella immensely. She carried the village wherever she went; it shows the depth of happiness of owning the beautiful umbrella. Sometimes she would let her friends experience the joy of hold in g the blue umbrella and get captivated by it.

Ram Bharosa envied the attention she got from her people. The ambitious, well-off Bram Bharosa desperately wanted to possess the umbrella. His obsession made him the victim of shame and despair. But in the end, he gifted a silver chain to Binya. The chain had a pendant of a bear’s claw, symbolising a piece of powerful luck.

the blue umbrella story book review

Why read “The Blue Umbrella”?

The novella is an easy read for children. It captures the essence of the Garhwal hills. Ruskin Bond beautifully describes the beauty of nature with changing seasons. There are many moments where the author takes me to childhood memory lane. One of the moments is when the wind catches up in the umbrella, the way a strong wind lifts and carries it away.

He always tells us what to expect during a rainy season in the hills – leeches. It is hilarious when he puts down, “…some of the older people still believed that to be bled by leeches was a remedy for various ailments. Whenever Ram Bharosa had a headache, he applied a leech to his throbbing temple.”

The spiritual take from this story

The title of the story undoubtedly sends a message to the audience to protect ourselves from negative emotions. In the west, the “blue mood” is an expression of sadness, a negative emotion. An umbrella is something that protects us from rain. Thus, it gives us a sign for protection from the negative rainfall. And this message stands out when he described the umbrella – “The umbrella was like a flower, a great blue flower that sprung up in the dry brown hillside.”

The novella deals with the emotions we must question now and then to avoid mislaid of moral compass. Ruskin Bond has conveyed this in simplistic and witty language. He defines in a beautiful style difference between desire and ambition. Binya’s desire for the blue umbrella filled her monotonous life with joy. Her trials to test the durability of the umbrella with varying seasons created emotional bonding with it. She carried the umbrella all the time as an emotional bonding and that it had become her companion – a reliable, protective and trusted companion.

Sharing the umbrella with her friends shows her eagerness to share her experience with them. Her desire to own the blue umbrella and sharing experiences with others moulded her to pursue goodness.

But the rich ambition of Ram Bharosa to own the same umbrella filled him with restlessness and bitterness. The desire was so strong and deep that it led him to restlessness. It made him plot and conspire to steal the blue umbrella. It stopped him when he was humiliated by the villagers. His desire was ambitious that turned into a strong desire like an untamed wild animal that takes us towards self-destruction.

The happy ending of the story conveys the message that all is well for the self-realised person. The enlightenment is when darkness is prevailed by lightness. “The Blue Umbrella” is a good read for inquisitive minds seeking an understanding of human emotions and children of age group between 8 to 10 years. Likewise, for those who share a connection with the hills, the description of Garhwalwill is bound to make you nostalgic.

Binya’s innocence and the act of kindness gently remind us of our innocent time when unknowingly made others happy with our actions.

the blue umbrella story book review

Contributor: Kavita Srivastava

About our Writing Program Student Kavita Srivastava (35) holds a degree in MBA. She’s an avid reader of business strategies, digital marketing strategies, mythology, mystic and fine arts with a focus on content marketing. In her spare time, she loves to spend time with nature and animals. Some day, she wishes to adopt a puppy with whom she can go hiking and jogging. Currently, she’s pursing a career in digital content marketing.

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Tanya is a graduate in Sociology from Sophia College, Mumbai, a post-graduate in Communications and Media from SNDT Women’s University in Mumbai and holds a Master's Degree in Journalis & Mass Communications from Chandigarh University. A former writing mentor and a seasoned lifestyle writer, Tanya writes columns on The Lifestyle Portal of life and living.

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“The Blue Umbrella” by Ruskin Bond – Complete Summary

The Blue Umbrella book by Ruskin Bond

The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond describes life in the hill community of Gharwal, where common people rise to heroic status while others are given chances to atone for their transgressions. The novel explores a range of emotions, such as kindness, jealousy, heroism, etc., through its different yet simple characters.

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The setting of the story

The story takes place in a Garhwal village in Himachal Pradesh. It centers around a young girl named Binya (Binyadevi), who is around ten years old. She resides with her mother, brother, Bijju (Vijay), and other members of their low-income family. She likes being on her own. Binya belonged to the mountains. Thus dark forests and lonely hilltops held no terrors for her.

Her town, which was five miles away from the village, was visited by many tourists from all over India. She has two cows named Neelu and Gori. She often lets them graze on their own and searches for them in the evening if they don’t come back.

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The tourists and the Blue Umbrella

The story opens with Binya looking for her cows, Neelu and Gori. While looking for them, she comes upon a party of picnickers. They are from the plains who had come there for their holidays. She is drawn to their antics and is particularly taken with a blue umbrella. The umbrella was like a flower. It was so beautiful that it almost cast a spell over her. The picnickers choose to interact with Binya after observing her naive curiosity with the umbrella.

The woman liked the leopard-claw pendant Binya was wearing around her neck. The woman wanted to trade for the pendant. They offered Binya money, but she refused to take the money. When they asked what she wanted, she pointed toward the Blue Umbrella. The woman was unwilling to give her Blue Umbrella. But she finally agreed and decided to trade the pendant for the umbrella.

The fascination with the Blue Umbrella

Binya took the blue umbrella and went home. She cherishes its beauty so much that she never closes it and carries it wherever she goes. The blue umbrella’s elegance quickly becomes everyone in the village’s favorite topic of talk.

Everyone in the village was envious of her and admired her lovely umbrella. Binya agrees to hold it for everyone who asks her to. They frequently wondered how Binya acquired such a pricey umbrella given her extreme poverty. But Binya did not care about others’ opinions. Unlike others, who were envious of her blue umbrella, the children always praised the beauty of the blue umbrella.

The quest to get the Blue Umbrella

On the other hand, for other people, like Ram Bharosa, a small tea shop store proprietor, the lovely umbrella also becomes an addiction. He attempts unsuccessfully to buy the umbrella from Binya while covering it. He used to sell toffees to Binya and her brother. For the umbrella, he gave Binya some free toffees. Binya, however, was so devoted to her umbrella that she resisted eating the toffees. He offered chocolates to her brother Bijju on credit. He wanted to give him free chocolates so that he could take the blue umbrella from him in return.

During the holidays, Ram Bharosa offered Bijju to work in his shop. Bijju had to help her mother with the plowing and transplanting, so Ram Bharosa had to employ another boy, named Rajaram, from a nearby village. Ram Bharosa demanded the umbrella from his servant, a young kid, after becoming enraged. The youngster had intended to take the umbrella, and after failing, he told Binya’s brother that Ram Bharosa had assigned him to steal the umbrella.

The dilemma

The entire village learned about this. Because of the umbrella, he had suffered the tortures of greed and the despair of loneliness as people stopped coming to his shop.

On the other hand, Binya was somewhere blaming herself for the misery of Ram Bharosa. she questioned herself now and then. She asked herself if the umbrella was more important than people. She felt sad and closed her umbrella whenever she passed by the shop of Ram Bharosa.

A gesture of kindness

After two weeks, Binya was his first customer. she went to buy chocolate. She put the coin on the counter. Ram Bharosa was a bit shocked at her appearance, thinking that she came to mock him. he also checked the coin to see if it was good. After that, he gave her the toffee. Binya left the shop and left her umbrella there for Ram Bharosa. Ram Bharosa ran behind her to give her umbrella back. but she told him to keep that umbrella, saying, “An umbrella is not everything.” Binya understood that she did not require an umbrella to be content or to appear attractive. She was content because of her family, the villagers, and the stunning scenery around her.

Ram Bharosa kept the umbrella. He was once again joyful and healthy. When Binya pardoned Ram Bharosa, people began to forget what had transpired earlier. They once more began purchasing goods from him. Once more, there was crowding in his business, but this time, there was a change. Ram Bharosa always had a smile on his face and interacted with his clients in a selfless manner.

After a few days, he found a bear’s claw outside his shop. It is considered lucky. He went to the blacksmith’s shop and gave him instructions to make a pendant of that. He gave Binya the pendant saying it is luckier than a leopard claw.

Important lessons from the book

Despite being brief and straightforward, the narrative teaches important lessons about the decency and goodwill of people. Binya is an outstanding role model for both kids and adults because of her purity and kindness.

The Blue Umbrella recounts tales of amazing bravery performed by common Garhwal hill people. It demonstrates how a straightforward tale delivered with sincerity can profoundly affect readers on an emotional level. It is a great children’s book to teach them some very important values such as kindness, heroism, and the consequences of jealousy and envy.

About Ruskin Bond

Ruskin Bond is one of the most famous authors of children’s books. An iconic Indian writer, his extremely enjoyable style of writing has made books written by Ruskin Bond a huge hit all across the world. Most of the Ruskin Bond’s books are influenced by his life spent in the hill stations of India, especially his experiences while living in Dehradun. Having experimented with many different genres, Ruskin Bond books for kids will always remain his favorite writing style.

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Book Review | ‘The Big Green Tent: A Novel’ by Ludmila Ulitskaya, Translated by Polly Gannon

A Russian Epic in the Tradition of Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, Set in the Period After Stalin’s Death

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the blue umbrella story book review

When I read the first volume of The Gulag Archipelago as a teenager, I lacked the education to fully understand it. My youthful worldview was unsophisticated, amounting to little more than “America Good; Soviet Union Bad.” I sensed that Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s book was important, a monumental achievement, but my understanding of the reasons why were hazy, and I didn’t fully grasp what a searing indictment of a political regime it was.

Looking back nearly a half-century later, as my country flirts with authoritarianism and one of America’s two political parties allows no scruple of decency, morality, common sense, or law to take precedence over the interests of its standard bearer — much as such things took no precedence over the Communist Party in Solzhenitsyn’s era — the dangers of reckless absolutism have never been more obvious.  

Internal exile and forced labor camps existed in Russia before the 1917 revolution, but the practice of rounding up citizens by category was supercharged in the 1930s under Joseph Stalin. The operating ethos of Stalin’s rule was: Give us the body and we will produce the case against it. Writing about The Gulag Archipelago in the March 1974 edition of the New York Review , the historian and diplomat George F. Kennan noted that the inhuman excesses of Stalin’s time, “… gained an inner momentum of its own, and ended by carrying relentlessly along in its tentacles all those connected with it: prisoners, guards, investigators, torturers, and executioners alike.”

The Big Green Tent by Ludmila Ulitskaya, one of contemporary Russia’s most famous novelists and playwrights, begins after Stalin’s death in 1953, in the heart of the period Solzhenitsyn documented; in fact, a Samizdat copy of The Gulag Archipelago features in the novel. Published in 2010, with translation by Polly Gannon, The Big Green Tent is a Russian epic in the tradition of Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, chock-full of wisdom about the frailty of the human condition and the coercive effect of unchecked power. 

Like the czars before him, Stalin ruled with such an iron hand for so long that many refused to believe the news of his death or speak of it out of fear. Years of conditioning, of hiding and holding back one’s opinions, of keeping the smallest possible profile and going unnoticed were a way to survive. 

“The police are a vine,” Ulitskaya writes, “with tendrils and runners reaching into every part of the government.” In the face of vast bureaucracies of forced compliance, fear and caution are entirely justified, but extract a terrible toll on every individual who attempts to live with integrity. 

The novel follows three primary characters, and dozens of others, over the course of 30 chapters. Ilya, Sanya, and Mikha meet as young students and form an unbreakable bond of friendship that survives periods of separation. They refer to themselves as the Trianon. Ilya is drawn to photography (and later Samizdat), Sanya to music, and Mikha to poetry. They fall under the sway of Victor Yulievich, a charismatic literature teacher who lost an arm in the war. Victor harbors no illusions about the Soviet government; he makes a point of injecting his lessons with a “strategy of awakening.” 

Another major influence on the boys is Sanya’s grandmother, Anna Alexandrovna, a wise and cultured advisor with aristocratic lineage and many social connections. “No matter how you look at it,” she tells the boys, “the history of Russia has been rotten, but those times were not the worst imaginable. There was a place for nobility, and dignity, and a sense of honor.”

Most of the characters in this work of realism know someone who served time in the camps or lost someone to them, and many view Stalin’s death as a gift. The boys share a mutual hatred of Stalinism as strong as their love of literature. 

But even with the death of Stalin, this is a society ruled by fear and suspicion, and as the boys become men they cannot escape this fact, Ilya and Mikha in particular. It’s madness to be a free thinker, to sign petitions, to rebel in ways large and small. As Mikha says to his wife, “How strange our Soviet — or maybe Russian — life is: you never know who will denounce you, report you to the authorities, or who will help you out; or how quickly those roles might reverse.” 

In the Acknowledgements, Ulitskaya expresses her gratitude for “the dear departed who have served as the inspiration for my characters, the innocents who stumbled into the meat grinder of their time, those who survived, and those who were maimed; the witnesses, the heroes, the victims.”

This review originally appeared in the California Review of Books .

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Review: ‘Blue Sisters’ by Coco Mellors perfectly underscores the meaning of sisterhood

I have been eagerly waiting to read “Blue Sisters” by Coco Mellors since early May, when I asked a bookseller at McNally Jackson Books if a copy could be held for me. The book went on sale in the United States on Sept. 3, and I think it’s safe to say I was one of the first people in the country to buy it that Tuesday morning. 

“Blue Sisters” is Mellors’ second book following her bestselling debut novel “ Cleopatra and Frankenstein ,” which was met with high acclaim from highbrow book reviewers when it was released in 2022. Mellors wrote her first book while at NYU’s Graduate School of Arts & Science, where she received an MFA in fiction. While the stakes were high for Mellors’ highly-anticipated second book, she delivered.

The story follows the lives of the three Blue sisters after the first anniversary of their sister Nicky’s death. Avery, the oldest, is a recovered-addict-turned-lawyer living in London with her wife. Bonnie, the second-oldest, is a former professional boxer living in Los Angeles. Lucky, the youngest, lives in Paris as a high fashion model. The book alternates between all three sisters’ points of view, with each character having their own chapters.

Nicky, the third child, was living alone in the Blue’s childhood home on the Upper West Side, working as a teacher. Suffering from severe endometriosis, Bonnie found Nicky dead in the apartment, having overdosed on laced painkillers.

Growing up in close quarters with an alcoholic father and mother lacking the maternal gene, the girls learned to lean on one another, but especially Avery. They eventually went their own ways and naturally grew apart. By the time Nicky had died, each sister started her own life, leaving behind the close-knit relationship that defined their youth. And though no dramatic fight had torn the sisters apart, it becomes clear that there are underlying tensions when they call each other to commemorate Nicky’s death at the start of the book. 

Each sister is grieving in her own way, struggling to admit her suffering to herself and her other sisters. After Nicky’s death, Avery finds herself becoming addicted to something again, but this time it’s stealing. She also isn’t doing herself any favors in her relationship, betraying her wife and making poor choices. Bonnie lives a lonely life as an uninspired nightclub bouncer after quitting boxing immediately after Nicky’s death, and Lucky messes up her career while slipping fast into alcoholism. 

But the sisters won’t admit these things to each other. Avery wants to protect Lucky and Bonnie from further harm, Bonnie wants to fix Lucky and look up to a struggling Avery and Lucky wants her sisters to believe that she can take care of herself. This sibling dynamic, in addition to their secretive stubbornness, leads all of them to deeper suffering. Readers get caught in the tangled web of their phone conversations, seeing their arguments and miscommunications from multiple points of view.

Eventually, all of their struggles come to a head when they reunite in the New York apartment to grapple with their grief together. The pacing throughout the story was perfectly timed, allowing readers to fully learn about each character before everybody came together towards the end. 

Mellors’ prose is exquisite but not contrived, making for an approachable literary read. Each character feels real from the beginning, with each sister written as a complex human being, even Nicky, who is gone before readers get to meet her. Nicky was a sensitive young woman full of joy and excitement for life, channeled through her femininity, shamelessly listening to teen pop music as an adult and prioritizing female friendships.

Despite complete and honest representations of each sister, Mellors makes it clear that each girl is undoubtedly one part of a shattered whole, with a gaping feeling lingering beneath the surface. This feeling is created through Mellors’ fantastic way of showing — not telling — readers how the death impacts the Blue family, like when Avery bathes Lucky after a night of partying and sadly repeats “not you too” as she washes her hair.  

Mellors is a masterful storyteller, weaving complex themes into a streamlined plot. Exploring familial addiction, sisterhood dynamics, inequities in women’s health and, above all, the complex ways of grieving, “Blue Sisters” is a deeply sensitive book with unique characters that are impossible not to love. Mellors built an entire world out of one family’s struggles, allowing for a sweeping and universal analysis of sisterhood.  

“‘You never have to explain yourselves to sisters.’”

Contact Alexa Donovan at [email protected] .

Alexa Donovan

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  1. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

    The celebrated Indian children's author Ruskin Bond's story, The Blue Umbrella, has gained immense popularity since its publication in 1980. It is one of the most-read stories. The narrative revolves around an unassuming young girl whose selflessness and compassion triumph over greed and materialism, making it a tale of extraordinary humanity.

  2. Book Review: The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

    April 07, 2017. Among all Ruskin Bond books, The Blue Umbrella has, so far, gathered immense applaud from readers and critics alike. This is a short novel, but the kind of moral lessons it teaches to us are simply overwhelming. This is a story of Binya, a poor little girl living with her mother and an elder brother, Bijju, in a small hilly ...

  3. Heartwarming Simplicity: 'The Blue Umbrella' Book Review

    Introduction "The Blue Umbrella" by Ruskin Bond is a heartwarming tale set in the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, India. This novella beautifully captures the essence of human kindness, simplicity, and the innocence of village life.

  4. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

    The Blue Umbrella follows the simple story of Binya, a mountain girl, who chances upon a blue umbrella and gets it for herself in exchange for her lucky charm. The entire village becomes envious of the umbrella, including the shopkeeper, Ram Bharosa, who tries to buy the beautiful umbrella from Binya. ... Book Review. 4 thoughts on ...

  5. The Blue Umbrella Summary

    Introduction. "The Blue Umbrella" is a heartwarming novella written by Ruskin Bond. Set in a small village in the picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh, India, the story revolves around a young girl named Binya and her prized possession, a beautiful blue umbrella. This delightful tale explores themes of innocence, jealousy, and the power of ...

  6. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

    About 'The Blue Umbrella'. The book THE BLUE UMBRELLA is written by Ruskin Bond in 1980. It is an Indian fiction novel. It clubbed with other short stories of Ruskin Bond called Children's Omnibus. Later it was adapted into a film under the same name. The author has written hundreds of novels, short stories, and poems that are very beautiful.

  7. Reviews

    Reviews The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond. ... that can be finished in one seating, The Blue Umbrella is a must read in children's literature. With great illustrations by Trevor Stubley, this book is entertaining while also educating as it tends to impart real-life lessons in a non-preachy way. The humane aspect was brought out vividly in this ...

  8. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

    The beautiful yet frail but strong umbrella, so pretty, that everyone is envious of a little girl in the village near Tehri, had to be the protagonist in this story. The plot revolves around the world of this little girl named Binya in a small village but with a big heart. Must Read: Complete List of the Best Books by Ruskin Bond

  9. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

    Description. 'The umbrella was like a flower, a great blue flower that had sprung up on the dry brown hillside.'In exchange for her lucky leopard's claw pendant, Binya acquires a beautiful blue umbrella that makes her the envy of everyone in the village, espec...

  10. The Blue Umbrella

    Plot Summary of The Blue Umbrella. The Blue Umbrella is a story about a young girl named Binya from the mountains of Himachal, who falls in love with a blue-coloured umbrella. She gets the umbrella in exchange for her leopard claw necklace from a tourist. Binya roams all over the town flaunting her new umbrella, the most beautiful one in the ...

  11. Book Review

    BY DAKSHITA NAITHANI. The Blue Umbrella has received widespread acclaim from readers and reviewers alike, and is considered one of Ruskin Bond's best works. The narrative is brief and straightforward, yet it eloquently hits on a fundamental quality of humanity: compassion. Binya Ruskin instils a spirit of kindness in youngsters via his work.

  12. 'The Blue Umbrella' Book Review by 13 year old Zenia Parpia from

    Today's review is of a book, by the much celebrated Ruskin Bond. Title: The Blue Umbrella. Written by : Ruskin Bond. Illustrated by : Trevor Stubley . After seeing the cover page of "The Blue Umbrella," I thought maybe it could be about rainy season. But the creativity of Ruskin Bond surprised me . I havent read such a creative, sweet ...

  13. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond : A Review

    The Blue Umbrella is a short and humorous novella set in the hills of Garhwal. Written in simple yet witty language, it captures life in a village - where ordinary characters become heroic, and others find opportunities to redeem themselves. FIRST IMPRESSION: When I received this book via Amazon today evening, I was surprised by the light weight.

  14. Book Review: The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

    Book: The Blue Umbrella Author: Ruskin Bond Illustrator: Archana Sreenivasan Pages: 64 Read On: Paperback How Long it Took Me To Read: 1hour Plot Summary: 'The Umbrella was like a flower, a great blue flower that had sprung up on the dry brown hillside.' In exchange for her lucky leopard's claw pendant, Binya acquires a beautiful blue umbrella that makes her the envy of everyone in her ...

  15. The Blue Umbrella By Ruskin Bond Book Review

    Review. The Blue Umbrella is a short story set in the small village of Garhwal. It's a quick read with a simple and beautiful plot. The book revolves around Binya and her beautiful blue umbrella, which she got in exchange for a lucky leopard claw pendant. The blue umbrella was Binya's prized possession. She would take that umbrella wherever ...

  16. Book Review: The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

    Book Review: The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond. About the Author: Ruskin Bond's first novel, The Room On The Roof, written when he was seventeen, won the John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize in 1957. Since then he has written several novellas (including Vagrants in the Valley, A Fight of Pigeons and Delhi is Not Far), essays, poems and children ...

  17. The Blue Umbrella

    The Blue Umbrella is a 1980 Indian novel written by Ruskin Bond. [1] It was adapted into 2005 Hindi film by the same name, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, which later won the National Film Award for Best Children's Film. [2] In 2012, the novel was adapted into a comic by Amar Chitra Katha publications, titled, The Blue Umbrella - Stories by Ruskin Bond, and included another story, Angry River. [3]

  18. The Blue Umbrella Summary of Key Ideas and Review

    The Blue Umbrella is a heartwarming tale by Ruskin Bond that follows the story of a young girl named Binya, who trades her bear claw necklace for a beautiful blue umbrella. Set in the picturesque hills of India, the book explores themes of kindness, jealousy, and the power of redemption as Binya and the village community learn valuable life lessons through their interactions with the umbrella.

  19. Book Review: The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

    May 18, 2018. Book Reviews. 44. SHARES. VIEWS. Ruskin Bond has been awarded many accolades (including Padmi Shri and Padma Bhushan awards) for his published works in English literature. One of his notable and outstanding work is "The Blue Umbrella" written in 1980. This short story has been adapted and recreated in several forms - a hindi ...

  20. The Blue Umbrella Book Review

    The novella "The Blue Umbrella" by legendary Ruskin Bond answers such questions in a simple yet beautiful style published by Rupa Publication in 1980 for children (8-10 years old). The impeccable story was later directed by Vishal Bharadwaj in 2005 with slight changes in the story. Although the box office collection bared a loss, the film ...

  21. "The Blue Umbrella" by Ruskin Bond

    04/07/2022. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond describes life in the hill community of Gharwal, where common people rise to heroic status while others are given chances to atone for their transgressions. The novel explores a range of emotions, such as kindness, jealousy, heroism, etc., through its different yet simple characters.

  22. Book Review

    Writing about The Gulag Archipelago in the March 1974 edition of the New York Review, the historian and diplomat George F. Kennan noted that the inhuman excesses of Stalin's time, "…gained an inner momentum of its own, and ended by carrying relentlessly along in its tentacles all those connected with it: prisoners, guards, investigators ...

  23. Review: 'Blue Sisters' by Coco Mellors perfectly underscores the

    Mellors wrote her first book while at NYU's Graduate School of Arts & Science, where she received an MFA in fiction. While the stakes were high for Mellors' highly-anticipated second book, she delivered. The story follows the lives of the three Blue sisters after the first anniversary of their sister Nicky's death.