The Room on the Roof by Ruskin Bond | Book Review
- October 4, 2020
- Children's Literature
The Room on the Roof is a novel about a 16-year-old orphaned boy Rusty written by Ruskin Bond when he himself was just 17 years old. The inspiration for this novel was his own journal that he maintained during his school years in Shimla. It was published when he was 21. The award and appreciation he got for his first work motivated him to write its sequel, Vagrants in the Valley . Then followed many others and he went on to prolifically author many inspiring children’s novels.
The Room on the Roof is a semi-autobiographical work hence as the reader progresses through it and gets to know more about Rusty, he at the same time acquaints himself with the author also. Ruskin Bond was also fondly called Rusty.
The portrayal of adolescence written by an adolescent is what that makes this book very special. Let’s explore more in the next section.
Inspiration / The Impulse
The Room on the Roof holds a special place in my heart because it is the first novel written by our very dear, Ruskin Bond Sir, one of India’s most favorite authors. He was only 17 when he wrote this novel and it won him the prestigious John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize for the year 1957. Imagine, at such a young age he did such a great job of expressing the feeling of an adolescent boy who was trying hard to find himself. The feelings of alienation, loneliness, angst and the chaos in the life of the protagonist; everything was weaved in such a beautiful manner in the novel that after reading it I was forced to look for more books by Ruskin Bond. The magic he creates with the setting and the emotions of the characters is unmatchable. Let’s know more about The Room on the Roof .
I don’t want to rot like mangoes at the end of the season, or burnout like the sun at the end of the day. I cannot live like the gardener, the cook and water-carrier, doing the same task everyday of my life ... I want to be either somebody or nobody. I don’t want to be anybody.
Synopsis - the room on the roof.
The story revolves around a 16-year-old orphaned Anglo-India boy Rusty, who lives with his guardians in the European community that borders the outskirts of Dehra. Mr. Harrison, the guardian, was a very conservative Englishmen and was very strict also. Rusty felt very lonely there as the emotional connect was totally absent. He was not allowed to mix with the locals or go to the bazaar. Bored with his dull and empty life, he once decides to go to the bazaar while Mr. Harrison was away. There he met a few boys who were very kind towards him.
...Explore, get lost, wander afar; even if it were only to find new places to dream in ... He threw himself on the bed and visualized the morrow… Where should he go – into the hills again, into the forest? Or should he listen to the devil in his heart and go to the Bazaar? Tomorrow he would know, tomorrow…
Rusty tasted freedom for the first time. Gradually, from a confused boy, he turns into a confident young man. Once after a violent episode with his guardian, he runs away from that house to live with his Indian friends. He gets a job with the help of his new friend and stays in the room on the roof of his new employer’s house. Now he begins to experience a new life altogether. His newly found love, his passionate friendships, his brand-new independence; everything was there which made him learn to embrace life with open hands.
But he could not return; he was afraid of what lay ahead, he dreaded the unknown, but it was easier to walk forwards than backwards.
But suddenly he was stuck by the miserable loneliness again. What happened to his friends? What about his first love? Was he able to overcome his loneliness? Will Rusty be a free and confident Rusty again in his life? To know the answers to all these questions you must read this book.
His mind is saying, Don’t go! You will get into troubles. But his instinct is saying, Go! You have your own heart and mind. You don’t have to live under rules all the times.
The major takeaway from this story is that we should always remain open and follow our instincts. Had the protagonist not decided to follow his heart he wouldn’t have had the taste of freedom along with all those wonderful experiences.
“For what it’s worth … it’s never too late, or in my case too early, to be whoever you want to be. There’s no time limit. Start whenever you want. You can change or stay the same. There are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people who have a different point of view. I hope you live a life you’re proud of, and if you’re not, I hope you have the courage to start all over again.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald
What I liked
The most special thing about this story that I liked is the journey of self-discovery by Rusty. He experiences so many emotions in his life, which while reading, you also will feel connected with. The writing is simple yet artistic. He takes us on a visual tour along with the story, the simple charms of a small Indian town are portrayed beautifully. The hills, the lush green jungles, the scent of flowers, the lively bazaar, the street vendors, the friendly locals; Ruskin Bond ’s description of Dehra will immediately transport you to that place. This story is woven with lots of characters and their emotions and the author did justice in portraying them aptly. These characters are ordinary people like us yet so appealing, no exaggeration or extravagance. There were a few funny descriptions also which will act as a tea break in this otherwise serious story. Ruskin Bond , amuses, moves and saddens also at the same time with his simple yet powerful writing. The plot is not a fast moving one though, but Bond has the magic to keep his readers captivated.
This beautiful coming-of-age story of Rusty is embellished with a captivating narration that ensures that the readers live and breathe each moment with Rusty in his hills of Dehra.
Recommendation - The Room on the Roof
I still remember when I read this book for the first time, I could feel the connection with Rusty. His fervent quest for finding his identity struck a chord with my teenage mind instantly. And today, while writing this review I revisited those memories. The Room on the Roo f definitely is a fulfilling read for me and I can assure you that it will encourage the reader within you to read more and more. I will definitely recommend it for all, especially for the budding readers.
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The Room on the Roof – Friendship, Love, and Growing Up!
There is rarely any Indian youngster who has not read Ruskin Bond . Be it our school syllabus or a random book gift; we have all stumbled across Bond at some point in our lives. He is not only a splendid writer, but the way he strikes the chords of our hearts is unmatchable. Every story of his comes with a bag of nostalgia, memories, and a reminiscence of the good old days. The way he describes his native place, travel tales, and memories of his childhood days – we can’t help but relate to every piece of his work.
The Room on the Roof (Review)
“The Room on the Roof” is the first literary work of Bond, and I regret reading it so late. It is one of the most beautiful stories I have come across this year. The simplicity and innocence of the narrator would win your heart for sure. The book goes through the complexities, emotions, and curiosity of young adult boys in a mesmerizing manner. One of my favorite parts was the vivid description of the Indian bazaar – from the fresh vegetables to the vendors chasing away the cows, the ayahs bathing the kids, to the hot fritters on the pan – Bond plays well with our sensory interactions.
No doubt, the book in itself is no less than a colorful bazaar of smells, animals, urchins, poverty, and above all, hopes, promises, and unbreakable bonds. Not only that, but space also plays a vital role in establishing the difference between the world of Rusty from that of Ranbir, Somi, Kishen, and the like. On one side of the Clock Tower was the Anglo-Indian household of Rusty’s uncles, where he felt trapped and ruled. On the other side, was the world that called out to Rusty – the world of true India in all its glory. As the author calls it, which is where ‘began life itself.’ And for Rusty, all three, the life, India, and of course, the bazaar was like the forbidden fruit.
The wonderful depiction of Holi would make you miss the festival so much. All the merrymaking, the riot of colors, faces smeared with reds and blues and yellows, and the torn clothes – it was like a whole new world for Rusty. This was a world where he didn’t have to worry about the cane beatings from Mr. Harrison, a world where he could live freely and unapologetically.
“For one day, Ranbir and his friends forgot their homes and their work and the problem of the next meal, and danced down the roads, out of the town and into the forest. And, for one day, Rusty forgot his guardian and the missionary’s wife and the supple Malacca cane, and ran with the others through the town and into the forest.”
What steals the cake for me is the undying love that the boys have for each other. The friendship they share is beyond beautiful. From eating together and playing Holi to going on a picnic and slowly parting their ways – this book would teach you a thing or two about human relationships at their best. Somi’s letter after he leaves Dehra is such a philosophical take on life that it would encourage you to keep going on no matter how gloomy your days are. Towards the end, Kishen works as another source of inspiration for Rusty. He tells him that he holds power to be anything – ‘A writer or an actor or a prime minister or something. Maybe a poet! Why not a poet, Rusty?’
Throughout the novel, we see Rusty learning and unlearning the ways of life and discovering himself in the process. We see him fall in love, and pretty soon, he is knee-deep in the pool of grief. All through these twists and turns and adventures, “The Room on the Roof” serves not only as a physical space but also as a metaphor. This more or less relates to the moral of the story as well. It was not just a room; it became an extension of Rusty’s very being. This is the only place he could call his own. No matter what happened, he’d always have to return to his room.
His fair skin and blue eyes always gave away the fact that, even though he spent all his days with Kishen and co., he wasn’t “one of them.” This identity crisis gives him perspective, and it’s not until the very climax that he realizes since he doesn’t belong to any place, he belongs everywhere. We often see Bond use the metaphor of water bodies to talk about different emotions and themes. When Kishen left Dehra, Rusty felt the world had become as stagnant as a river. Days and nights went by, but Rusty felt the clock was stuck at the same time.
“It was like living in a house near a river, and the river was always running past the house, on and away; but to Rusty, living in the house, there was no passing of the river; the water ran on, the river remained. He longed for something to happen.”
Even at the end, we see how the room with a family of lizards and no electricity becomes the only solace, the only place to go back to for the young boys. It is their room, and that is where they must return. This is a story of Rusty and his friends, a story of love, loss, growing up, the harsh realities of the world, and everything in between. You can relate to the characters here. This honest tale will stay with you long after you reach the last words of the last page. I highly recommend you add this to your ‘Books to Read’ list. You can get the book here! 📖
The Room on the Roof
There is rarely any Indian youngster who has not read Ruskin Bond. Be it our school syllabus or a random book gift; we have all stumbled across Bond at some point in our lives. He is not only a splendid writer, but the way he strikes the chords of our hearts is unmatchable. Every story of his comes with a bag of nostalgia, memories, and a reminiscence of the good old days. The way he describes his native place, travel tales, and memories of his childhood days - we can't help but relate to every piece of his work.
URL: https://bookwritten.com/the-room-on-the-roof-by-ruskin-bond-review/1775/
Author: Ruskin Bond
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Blurb and Author Info from Goodreads
The Room on the Roof is Ruskin Bond’s masterpiece of adolescence and coming of age. Written when the author was seventeen, it brilliantly describes the hopes and passions that capture young minds and hearts. A moving tale of love and friendship, it has endured as Bond’s most beloved novel.
Top Quotes from The Room on The Roof
“When we are young, we can put up with a great deal of discomfort in order to follow a dream. If, after thirty-five years, I’m still doing my own thing, it’s because I haven’t forgotten the dream. Let no man take your dream away. It will sustain you to the end.”
“I don't want to rot like mangoes at the end of the season, or burnout like the sun at the and of the day. I cannot live like the gardener, the cook and water-carrier, doing the same task everyday of my life... I want to be either somebody or nobody. I don't want to be anybody.”
“But he could not return; he was afraid of what lay ahead, he dreaded the unknown, but it was easier to walk forwards than backwards.”
100 Books by Ruskin Bond
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Ruskin Bond
Ruskin Bond is an Indian author of British descent. He is considered to be an icon among Indian writers and children's authors and a top novelist. He wrote his first novel, The Room on the Roof, when he was seventeen which won John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize in 1957. Since then he has written several novellas, over 500 short stories, as well as various essays and poems, all of which have established him as one of the best-loved and most admired chroniclers of contemporary India. In 1992 he received the Sahitya Akademi award for English writing, for his short stories collection, "Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra", by the Sahitya Akademi, India's National Academy of Letters in India. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1999 for contributions to children's literature. He now lives with his adopted family in Landour near Mussoorie.
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The Room On The Roof | Ruskin Bond | Book Review | Plot, Characters And Background
A seventeen year old boy, a teenager himself picks up a pen, weaves a story of another teenage boy-Rusty, who is an orphaned anglo-indian kid.
Yes, we are referring to the very famous British Indian writer- Ruskin Bond.
The Room on the roof is his first formal literary work and of course, one of his much-acclaimed works!
Ruskin Bond
Source: India Today
Protagonist and Plot:
Source: amazon.com
Rusty, is the main character- who lives in Dehra, Uttarakhand. The book mainly tries to portray the plight of this kid who is fighting with his own conflicts in addition to the blind efforts that he is putting in for the fact that he has to be and act a certain way, all to just fit in the standards of society and more certainly, in those of his Guardian- Mr John Harrison.
This article is an overview of the book- The Room on the Roof, under the different heads that follow.
Personality traits
Since, Rusty is just a teenager, a lot of the traits reflected in his character are mainly situationist. He has been primarily under the influence of his guardian Mr. Harrison, until he meets Somi and Ranbir.
Side Characters
- around this semi-autobiographical account of Rusty include:
his friends- Somi and Ranbir, his neighbor- Kishen, Mrs Meena Kapoor- Kishen's mother, etc.
Mr John Harrison
This man, has always seemed to have a negative bias for India and its cultures, which of course got kindled from the fact that India got relieved from the rule of the british, pretty close in time, to when this story had come up.
He would constantly seek to groom Rusty as an Englishman with English values and ettiquettes, which is oxymoronic in itself, since they were, or rather John had been repelling the traditions and the sensibilities of a country that he was living in!
Rusty was evidently suffocated by the restrictions set up on any of his actions that could ever be in favour of India, which resulted in the least exposure he had to the land he was living on, the city of Dehra, as Ruskin Bond likes to call it.
Somi and Ranbir
It was only when one day Rusty followed his heart and went with his insticts, that he went on to explore the streets of Dehra and found a light of hope, a hope for a change when he met Somi and Ranbir, who were quick enough to form a friendly connection with Rusty.
Rusty had just started to take a breath of fresh air, when he got violently beaten by Harrison, after being caught masked in the colours of Holi from the celebration he had with his newly made friends.
This was obviously, very frustrating for Rusty.
He began to realize that his true happiness lied in the adventures that he did with his friends. This was when he decided break the shackles of abidance to Mr John Harrison.
This was the beginning of a new episode in Rusty's dull life. He started tutoring another kid in his neighbourhood, Kishen, for English. He was given a little Room on the Roof of Kishen's House by Kishen's Parents. This was hence a turning point for Rusty, as this was the first time he had life in his control and hence felt a sense of freedom!
Mrs Meena Kapoor
Kishen's father or Mr Kapoor, was an alcoholic. When Rusty began to live with this family, he felt himself being strangely drawn towards Mrs Kapoor, in a rather Romantic way. To his surprise, Mrs Kapoor seemed to have reflected similar feelings for Rusty.
This was Rusty's experience of First love!
Twists in the story
It is quite commendable how the 17 year old Ruskin Bond was able to understand the complicated scenarios that an Individual is prone to be dumped into!
A lot of Bond's works underline the essence of a memoir.
Ruskin was around 7 or 8 when his parents Edith Clarke and Aubrey Alexander bond-got seperated and 10 when his father passed away.
He thus seems to have a deep understanding of people and relationships.
This characteristic of Bond's works is also showcased in the twists exhibited through the storyline of "The Room on the Roof", when Mrs Meena Kapoor dies in a vehicle accident. This incident in the story reflects the thoughts of the author's when his own father passed away!
Another detail of the story that reflects on the life of Ruskin Bond, is when Kishen's alcoholic father re- marries soon after the death of his first wife. This incidence is partly analogous to the remarriage of the author's own mother, with a Hindu man, Hari!
Ruskin's interpretation of life, is intense and terrific, indeed. The portrayal of Kishen who transitioned into a thief as well as somebody who turned over psychologically, when he could not bear the demise of his mother, could only be done by a writer with a very deep understanding of life.
Period in which the story was set
The story is set in the time when India just became independent from the British. Ruskin spent a long time of his life in Dehradun and other places- mostly hill stations, which also find mention in - The Room on the Roof!
A picture of the top view of Mussouri, Dehradun
Source: helloholidays.in
The various scenarios and imageries shown throughout the story hence, work their best to show the distinction between, the olden and the modern days. The story is predominantly built in the light of the days of yesterday, having little but strong contrast drawn, with respect to the modern times!
Popular Reviews
" If there's one name that is synonymous with Children's Literature in India, then it's Ruskin Bond.”
- Daily Mail
The Room on the Roof ranks 2nd in the 10 best short stories by Ruskin Bond, in an article written for-
The Times of India
" it has a lot of different emotions and I like the way Ruskin Bond has written it: a simple story made into such a touching and sad book. "
- Adya@Youngbookreporters
for The Guardian
Goodreads : 4.1/5
My Conclusion:
"As expressed in a lot of reviews and critical reception on- The Room on the Roof, it is indeed a very heart warming composition.
It just has the right amount of Maturity, Innocence, colour and contrast! "
Blog Banner Courtesy: Search of Life
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Room on the Roof by Ruskin Bond - review
‘a simple story made into such a touching and sad book’
Room on the Roof is about an orphaned boy named Rusty who has no real family after his parents’ death. He is very lonely and sad and even though he lives with his guardian (Mr. John Harrison), he doesn’t feel at home. Rusty is going through several emotions: he is confused, obliged, helpless, lonely and sad. He is confused because he is a young boy between the age of an adult and child and doesn’t know who to follow or what his future holds. He is obliged to follow the orders and rules of his guardian and dares not disobey him. He feels helpless because he knows that if he disobeys Mr. John, he will get caned. Rusty doesn’t have any real friends and he is so very lonely in his guardian’s house.
Even though Rusty is half-Indian, John doesn’t let Rusty near the bazaar for a reason: John thinks that Indians are very dirty and this story is written just after the British had ruled over India, so he must have felt more superior!
One day, Rusty decides to get some fresh air and takes a walk while his guardian was away in Delhi. After walking through the forest, he stops in front of the bazaar and his mind is arguing with his instinct. His mind is saying, Don’t go! You will get into trouble . But his instinct is saying, Go! You have your own heart and mind. You don’t have to live under rules all the time . Rusty chooses to follow his instinct and steps into the bazaar.
He has made a good choice. Up until now, Rusty doesn’t have any hope or confidence but then he meets a kind boy named Somi and makes friends with him. Somi and his friends become Rusty’s hope and confidence, and Somi and Ranbir are really kind to Rusty. When Rusty returns home, he finds that his guardian has returned early and gets caned for going to the bazaar. The next day, he goes to play Holi with Ranbir and once again gets caned. Rusty now knows what he has to do. He starts to live his own life and runs away from his guardian’s house. Rusty finds Somi who supports him a lot.
Slowly, from a confused boy, Rusty turns into a confident and independent young man! He gets a job teaching English to a boy named Kishen, in return for a tiny room on the roof and food. He finds a loving and fun family, his independence, and even finds his ‘first love’ in Kishen’s mother Meena. The story takes a turn, when he loses all his friends and his first love too. Now Rusty’s last source of confidence and hope has gone away and his lonely days return. Rusty spends his sad days looking out at the window and once again, plans to run away. He decides to go back to England but before doing so, he wants to say a last goodbye to his friends and finds Kishen who convinces him to change his mind about returning to the UK. Instead, the two walk away together to form their own new world and life without worrying about anything else.
What I like about the book:
I like this book because it was written from a teenager’s perspective. The author was seventeen when he wrote this and the story was inspired by his own experiences when he lived in Dehra. He wrote this story because he too was feeling some of the emotions that Rusty was feeling in the story. And for that reason, he decided that he would never make any revisions so readers could understand how it feels to be seventeen.
It was a great read because it has a lot of different emotions and I like the way Ruskin Bond has written it: a simple story made into such a touching and sad book.
There were a few funny descriptions, such as when Ruskin Bond described a situation as: ‘When a butterfly landed on the missionary’s wife’s palatial bosom….’ I laughed a lot and when my mum read it, she also laughed.
After reading Room on The Roof, I am looking forward to reading a few of Ruskin Bond’s other stories. I wonder why children of my generation don’t read more of his books. Here are some books I am interested in reading from his collection: Panther’s Moon and Other Stories, The Hidden Pool, and Rusty goes to London.
I think the author has explained an important message in this book. Rusty’s guardian seems to be a little racist, who chooses to live in India but not mix with the people there. I think if people live in a country, they should mix with the people and appreciate their culture.
The lesson in this story for me is to remain open as Rusty was and to follow my instincts. If Rusty had not becomes friends with the people of the bazaar he would never have had all the wonderful experiences in the story.
Ruskin Bond reminds me of Roald Dahl because they both use interesting language and really funny phrases to describe their characters and their stories. They both write simple but wonderful stories. Even though, Roald Dahl is more fantastical and Ruskin Bond’s stories feel like memoirs but presented as a story.
I WOULD GIVE THIS BOOK A 9 OUT OF 10 RATING!
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The Room on the Roof by Ruskin Bond
By tushar kataria a mixture in unknown percentages of contradictions and complexities, tushar has been writing about the randomness of it all for a while now. however, his written word ventured into the real world for the very first time with soulveda. a regular guy with a right-of-the-centre approach towards all things moving, tushar likes to think his writings will do what starship did in star trek— cut across boundaries and go beyond the curve. having been brought up in a house full of people gave his personality multiple shades of grey, which, he hopes, brings layers of insight into his writing. a career professional in information technology, tushar moved to bangalore for academic pursuits and stayed put. on a typical sunday, you can either find him fraternising with friends, watching a bit of football in the evenings, logging in some supposedly important work for his client, and of course, philosophising over a drink or two. tushar loves trekking, and mountains are probably the place he would be at if he weren't writing this. he loves the power of the written word, though strongly agrees a gun is always better in a knife fight. puns aside, he hopes to embark on a never-ending journey in the universe of words with no better starship than that of this publication..
06 September 2018
Hill stations are most beautiful during spring. With the snow rapidly melting away, the wind rising from the valley and the trees calling us outside to enjoy their shade, the surrounding becomes idyllic. It is in one such picturesque place that Rusty, the protagonist of Ruskin Bond’s The Room on the Roof , lives. An orphaned Anglo-Indian boy in the Dehradun of the 50s, Rusty yearns to break free from his guardians who want to make a proper Englishman out of him. But all Rusty wants is to venture beyond the European settlements of the town into the real India—to the local bazaar, to the cacophony of sounds and the assortments of life. So, one fine day, he does just that. And therein begins the metamorphosis of Rusty.
From being a mild-mannered English snob, he becomes an adventurous teenager in the company of his lively friends. From a life so protected, Rusty suddenly becomes the cynosure of all eyes. His friends Somi and Ranbir make him eat real Indian street food, and his employer’s son Kishen finds in him, a true friend. A young teenager, Rusty himself goes through a gamut of emotions while growing up—he feels a wave of ecstasy after falling in love for the first time and experiences inconsolable pain after losing his loved ones—all while renting out a small room in his employer’s house. So his room on the roof is not just a living space for Rusty. It is the symbol of his independence after crossing the threshold to make it into the brave new world.
The Room on the Roof gives a sneak-peak into Bond’s life as a 17-year-old, new to the charms of the world, and dreaming of unrealistic dreams. The book offers an insight into how Bond perceived the world around him—be it the colour of people’s skin or the clothes they wore or the food they ate during festivals.
Coupled with an engrossing narrative, the story of Rusty grappling with fervent hope unlocks a bagful of memories. Memories of the time when love was unencumbered by expectations, expectations were not barriers to friendships, and friendships were made in chaat shops or on the handlebars of bicycles. Wouldn’t it be great if we all could just relive those moments once more?
Well, jump right in into a pool of nostalgia and swim in Bond’s words, back to the time when we were all a bit like Rusty—planning our whole life inside a room in our minds; yet to break free from barriers, yet to know the joys and sorrows, and yet to appreciate books such as these.
Anglo Anglo Indian bond book Book review books Dehradun english snob freedom growing up India indian Kataria Kishen nostalgia orphan Ranbir roof room Room on the Roof by Ruskin Bond Ruskin Ruskin Bond rusty Somi teenager the Roof by Ruskin Bond The room on the roof The Room on the Roof by Ruskin Bond the room with a view Tushar Tushar kataria
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The protagonist, Rusty, is a 17-year-old Anglo-Indian orphan who finds himself living with strict guardian, Mr. Walker. Dissatisfied with the constraints imposed on him, Rusty yearns for independence and a life less ordinary. He ultimately finds his salvation in a rooftop room, where he escapes to enjoy his solitude and write poetry. It is from this vantage point that Rusty observes and interacts with an eclectic mix of characters, including a group of local rascals and a beautiful Anglo-Indian girl, Stella. Bond’s masterful storytelling is on full display here, as he deftly weaves together moments of joy, camaraderie, and heartache with a nostalgic charm that feels both genuine and timeless. The book transport readers to the streets of Dehra Dun, where the sounds, sights, and smells of the 1950s Indian landscapes come alive with vivid detail. One of the most commendable aspects of “Room on the Roof” is its relatable characters. Rusty’s journey from innocence to maturity, his awkwardness around girls, his love for nature, and his desire for autonomy resonate with readers of all ages. The supporting cast is equally well-crafted, each with their own quirks and motivations that contribute to the novel’s rich tapestry. The narrative pace is leisurely, allowing the reader to savor every interaction and reflection. Bond’s prose is deceptively simple yet profound, reflecting a deep understanding of human emotions and the beauty of everyday life. His ability to find magic in ordinary moments is what makes this book so captivating. While the plot may seem straightforward, the themes of self-discovery, first love, and the quest for independence are universally relatable. “Room on the Roof” doesn’t shy away from exploring the bittersweet aspects of growing up, making it a poignant and memorable read. In conclusion, Ruskin Bond’s “Room on the Roof” is a timeless gem that will continue to enthrall readers with its heart-warming story, beautifully realized characters, and enchanting setting. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates literature that celebrates the innocence and spirit of youth.  Here’s a book review of “Room on the Roof” by Ruskin Bond: Title: Room on the Roof Author: Ruskin Bond Publication Year: 1956 Genre: Coming-of-Age, Fiction Book Review: “Room on the Roof” is a poignant and beautifully written coming-of-age novel by Ruskin Bond, one of India’s most celebrated authors. The book tells the story of Rusty, a 16-year-old orphan who lives with his strict guardian, Mr. Kapoor, in the small town of Dehradun. Feeling suffocated by his mundane life, Rusty yearns for freedom and adventure, which he finds in the company of a group of misfits who live on the outskirts of town. As Rusty spends more time with his new friends, he begins to question the conventions and restrictions imposed upon him by society. He starts to assert his individuality, and his journey towards self-discovery begins. Through his experiences, Bond masterfully explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggles of adolescence. One of the standout features of the book is its vivid portrayal of small-town India in the 1950s. Bond’s lyrical prose brings to life the sights, sounds, and smells of Dehradun, making the setting an integral character in the story. The author’s use of descriptive language is evocative and immersive, transporting the reader to a bygone era. The characters in the book are well-crafted and relatable, with Rusty being a particularly endearing protagonist. His struggles, conflicts, and triumphs are deeply human, making it easy for readers to empathize with him. The supporting cast, including Rusty’s friends and the enigmatic Kishen, add depth and complexity to the narrative. Bond’s writing is characterized by its simplicity, subtlety, and emotional depth. He tackles complex themes with a light touch, never resorting to melodrama or sentimentality. The book’s tone is introspective and contemplative, mirroring the protagonist’s own introspection and growth. Rating: 4.5/5 stars Recommendation: “Room on the Roof” is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or struggled to find their place in the world. It’s a beautifully written, poignant, and relatable coming-of-age story that will resonate with readers of all ages. If you’re a fan of Indian literature, or simply looking for a compelling and thought-provoking read, this book is a great choice. Target Audience:
 Room on the Roof: A Review
Weaknesses:
Room on the Roof is a captivating and thought-provoking novel. With its strong characters, compelling social commentary, and lyrical prose, it offers a rewarding reading experience. While some pacing issues and formulaic elements detract slightly from the overall impact, the novel’s strengths ultimately outweigh these weaknesses. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, social realism, and compelling character-driven narratives.  In “Room on the Roof,” Ruskin Bond weaves a captivating tale of a young boy’s coming-of-age in the Himalayan foothills of India during the 1930s. The novel is a poignant exploration of the themes of identity, family, and self-discovery, all set against the backdrop of a picturesque and idyllic landscape. The story follows the life of Rusty, a 14-year-old boy who is sent to live with his strict and traditional grandfather in the small village of Simla. Rusty, who has grown up in the bustling city of Delhi, finds it difficult to adjust to the slow-paced and traditional lifestyle of the village. However, he soon discovers the beauty and charm of the place, and begins to appreciate the simple pleasures of life. The novel is rich in detail, and Bond’s vivid descriptions of the landscape and the people bring the story to life. The reader is transported to the lush green hills, the misty mornings, and the colorful bazaars of Simla. The characters are well-drawn and multi-dimensional, and  Mixtral 8x7b “Room on the Roof” by Ruskin Bond is a heartwarming and beautifully written novel about a teenage boy named Rusty who goes to live with his guardians in the bustling city of Dehra Dun, India. Rusty is a sensitive and intelligent young man who struggles to find his place in his new surroundings, but eventually discovers a love for nature and a group of loyal friends who accept him for who he is. Bond’s writing style is simple and elegant, making it easy for readers of all ages to follow and enjoy. He vividly describes the sights, sounds, and smells of India, immersing the reader in the story and making them feel as if they are right there alongside Rusty. One of the things that makes “Room on the Roof” so special is the way it captures the innocence and wonder of youth. Rusty’s experiences and observations are both relatable and eye-opening, and the lessons he learns about friendship, love, and the importance of being true to oneself are timeless and valuable. Overall, “Room on the Roof” is a delightful and thought-provoking novel that is sure to leave a lasting impression on its readers. It is a book that can be enjoyed again and again, and its messages and themes will resonate with readers of all ages. I highly recommend it. Ruskin BondThe room on the roof.  Select a format:About the author, more in this series.  Sign up to the Penguin NewsletterBy signing up, I confirm that I'm over 16. To find out what personal data we collect and how we use it, please visit our Privacy Policy 
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Follow the author The Room on the Roof Paperback – October 1, 2014
 From the PublisherEditorial ReviewsAbout the author, product details.
About the authorRuskin bond. Ruskin Bond is the author of several bestselling novels and collections of short stories, essays and poems. These include The Room on the Roof (winner of the John Llewellyn Rhys Prize), A Flight of Pigeons, The Night Train at Deoli, Time Stops at Shamli, Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra (winner of the Sahitya Akademi Award), Angry River, The Blue Umbrella, Rain in the Mountains, Roads to Mussoorie, A Little Night Music, Tigers for Dinner, Tales of Fosterganj, and A Gathering of Friends. Ruskin Bond was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1999, a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Delhi government in 2012 and the Padma Bhushan in 2014. Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them. To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness. Customers sayCustomers find the book full of emotions and details. They describe it as a fascinating and captivating read. Readers also mention it's exciting and a great young adult book about India. AI-generated from the text of customer reviews Customers find the book full of emotions and details. They say it's deeply moving and intriguing. "Small and full of emotions along with details , this book moved me...." Read more "...A must-read for all book-lovers, the book portrays the magic of extraordinary emotions and unlikely strong bond of friendship seen in ordinary lives..." Read more " profoundly moving ..." Read more Customers find the book fascinating, captivating, and exciting. They say it's a great young adult book about India. "...friendship seen in ordinary lives, which makes it a fascinating and captivating read all through ." Read more "A great young adult book about India . Even though I am a "senior" (in age, not school), I enjoyed the book immensely." Read more "Deeply moving and intriguing ...." Read more
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Follow the authorThe Room on the Roof: An award-winning novel by Ruskin Bond, first book in the famous Rusty series, a must-read illustrated classic [Paperback] Ruskin Bond Paperback – 1 January 2014Save extra with 3 offers.
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Replacement Instructions Purchase options and add-onsA classic coming-of-age story which has held generations of readers spellbound! Rusty, a sixteen-year-old Anglo-Indian boy, is orphaned and has to live with his English guardian in the claustrophobic European part in Dehra Dun. Unhappy with the strict ways of his guardian, Rusty runs away from home to live with his Indian friends. Plunging for the first time into the dream-bright world of the bazaar, Hindu festivals and other aspects of Indian life, Rusty is enchanted and is lost forever to the prim proprieties of the European community. Written when the author was himself seventeen, this moving story of love and friendship, with a new introduction and illustrations will be enjoyed by a whole new generation of readers.
Frequently bought together Customers who viewed this item also viewed From the PublisherProduct descriptionAbout the author. Born in Kasauli (Himachal Pradesh) in 1934, Ruskin Bond grew up in Jamnagar (Gujarat), Dehradun, New Delhi and Shimla. His first novel, The Room on the Roof , which was written when he was seventeen, received the John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize in 1957. Since then he has written over 500 short stories, essays and novellas (including Vagrants in the Valley and A Flight of Pigeons ) and more than forty books for children. He received the Sahitya Akademi Award for English writing in India in 1992, the Padma Shri in 1999, and the Delhi government's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012. He lives in Landour, Mussoorie, with his extended family. Product details
About the authorRuskin bond. Ruskin Bond is the author of several bestselling novels and collections of short stories, essays and poems. These include The Room on the Roof (winner of the John Llewellyn Rhys Prize), A Flight of Pigeons, The Night Train at Deoli, Time Stops at Shamli, Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra (winner of the Sahitya Akademi Award), Angry River, The Blue Umbrella, Rain in the Mountains, Roads to Mussoorie, A Little Night Music, Tigers for Dinner, Tales of Fosterganj, and A Gathering of Friends. Ruskin Bond was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1999, a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Delhi government in 2012 and the Padma Bhushan in 2014. Customer reviews
Customers sayCustomers find the writing style interesting, refreshing, and poetic. They describe the story as captivating, simple, and decently paced. Readers say the book is readable and a good read for younglings. They also mention it has a beautiful, tender, and soft touch. AI-generated from the text of customer reviews Customers find the writing style interesting, lucid, and refreshing. They appreciate the poetic descriptions that stay between the sessions. Readers also mention the book touches their hearts. In addition, they say the calligraphy is nice and the illustrations are awesome. "...Such is such a magician with the words- simple, evocative , warm, soft touch, picturesque !..." Read more "...It’s a literary gem which everyone should read. Language is easy. It’s a short read. This book is already loved by all for decades. A must recommend." Read more "...The book itself is awesome, very interesting to read and truly a remarkable masterpiece written by author in adoloscence...." Read more "...Mr. Harrison character was really vicious. Calligraphy is really nice ." Read more Customers find the story captivating, light, and simple. They say it's decently paced and engrossing. "...And it is complex , oedipal but completely understandable and a pleasure to read...." Read more "...The story is as simply & vividly described as can be from a young soul...." Read more "I really Like the story and the writer , Simple things et beautifully present." Read more " This story is so great that it can make you feel all kind of emotions from time to time...." Read more Customers find the book readable, short, and light. They mention it's good for younglings and a quick page-turner. "...Language is easy. It’s a short read . This book is already loved by all for decades. A must recommend." Read more "This is very nice for Kids I loved it very much It is little bit imotional... I liked it very much.. I would suggest that you should buy it for your..." Read more "... A short , yet beloved read." Read more "...And it is complex, oedipal but completely understandable and a pleasure to read ...." Read more Customers find the book beautiful, tender, and comforting. They also mention it has a soft touch. "... Tender , yet mature… as if the death of Meena has forced him to grow overnight into a young man !..." Read more "Bond has always mesmerized me. Had read it when I as 17 or 18, felt beautiful . Now when I read it again, it felt more real than ever." Read more "It is very simole, beautiful and feel good book " Read more ""The little spring rain rode on a bit ,- - " It seriously gives the feeling . The book is gift to my son on his birthday...." Read more Customers find the characters natural and relatable. "... All characters are well crafted and you start to love and care for them.It’s a literary gem which everyone should read. Language is easy...." Read more "...Mr. Harrison character was really vicious .Calligraphy is really nice." Read more "...The character mentioned here are so relatable and the truly take you in that era, around 60 years ago the book was written. Nice and calm read :)" Read more "Such a Pleasant book !❣ and the characters are so natural that you could relate with them...Worth buying 🍁..." Read more Reviews with images The smell of the book feels like nostalgia
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The Room on the Roof is a novel about a 16-year-old orphaned boy Rusty written by Ruskin Bond when he himself was just 17 years old. The inspiration for this novel was his own journal that he maintained during his school years in Shimla. It was published when he was 21. The award and appreciation he got for his first work motivated him to write its sequel, Vagrants in the Valley. Then followed ...
The Room on the Roof (Review) "The Room on the Roof" is the first literary work of Bond, and I regret reading it so late. It is one of the most beautiful stories I have come across this year. The simplicity and innocence of the narrator would win your heart for sure. The book goes through the complexities, emotions, and curiosity of young ...
Book: The Room on the Roof Author: Ruskin Bond Illustrator: Ahlawat Gunjan Pages: 171 Read On: Hardback How Long It Took Me To Read: 3 days or so. Plot Summary: Rusty, a sixteen-year-old Anglo-Indian boy, is orphaned and has to live with his English guardian in the claustrophobic European part in Dehra Dun. Unhappy with the strict ways of his guardian, Rusty runs away from home to live with ...
The Room on the Roof is a novel written by Ruskin Bond.. It was Bond's first literary venture. Bond wrote the novel when he was seventeen [2] and won the John Llewellyn Rhys Prize in 1957. [2] [3] The novel revolves around Rusty, an orphaned seventeen-year-old Anglo-Indian boy living in Dehradun.Due to his guardian Mr Harrison's strict ways, he runs away from his home to live with his Indian ...
Ruskin Bond, the author of this book, created Rusty to spin stories about his own past; Rusty's adventures are Ruskin's own. From living with his grandparents in Dehra, surrounded by an assortment of peculiar animals, to making his way to London and fulfilling his dreams of becoming a writer, Rusty's life reflects Ruskin's life greatly.
July 21, 2016. The Room on the Roof is the first novel of Ruskin Bond. He wrote this novel when he was in England for four years, struggling for both: job and writing. Well, the book is staged against a small Indian town. It covers the events of a teenager English boy Rusty - he is an orphan and loneliness is something that never leaves him.
The Room on the Roof is a novel by Ruskin Bond that tells the story of a sixteen-year-old Anglo-Indian boy named Rusty who feels suffocated by his guardian's strict ways. He befriends some local Indian boys and experiences the joys and challenges of life in Dehradun. The book explores themes of friendship, independence, and the search for one's own identity.
Blurb and Author Info from Goodreads. The Room on the Roof is Ruskin Bond's masterpiece of adolescence and coming of age. Written when the author was seventeen, it brilliantly describes the hopes and passions that capture young minds and hearts. A moving tale of love and friendship, it has endured as Bond's most beloved novel.
The Room on the Roof is a timeless coming-of-age novel that will resonate with a whole new generation of readers. Written by renowned author Ruskin Bond when he was just seventeen, it is the story of Rusty, a teenage Anglo-Indian boy who is orphaned and has to live with his English guardian in the stifling European quarter of Dehra Dun. Unhappy with the strict ways of his guardian, Rusty runs ...
" it has a lot of different emotions and I like the way Ruskin Bond has written it: a simple story made into such a touching and sad book. "- Adya@Youngbookreporters. for The Guardian. Goodreads: 4.1/5. My Conclusion: "As expressed in a lot of reviews and critical reception on- The Room on the Roof, it is indeed a very heart warming composition.
My Review "The Room on the Roof" is a wonderful book. This novel is about the story of a young boy whose name is Rusty. This story reveals how a young European boy who lived in a conservative lifestyle set by his guardian, breaks the rule, leaves the house, struggles to find shelter, makes friends, finds a job, falls in love, lives an ordinary life in a room on the roof.
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The Room on the Roof gives a sneak-peak into Bond's life as a 17-year-old, new to the charms of the world, and dreaming of unrealistic dreams. Coupled with an engrossing narrative, the story of Rusty unlocks a bagful of memories. By Tushar Kataria. A mixture in unknown percentages of contradictions and complexities, Tushar has been writing ...
The Room on the roof - A book review Undoubtedly, Ruskin Bond is one of the beloved authors when it comes to children's literature. As quoted by 'Daily Mail', 'If there's one name that is synonymous with children's literature in India, it's Ruskin Bond. The room on the roof is the first book written by Ruskin Bond when he himself was 17 years old.
Title: Room on the Roof Author: Ruskin Bond Publication Year: 1956 Genre: Coming-of-Age, Fiction. Book Review: "Room on the Roof" is a poignant and beautifully written coming-of-age novel by Ruskin Bond, one of India's most celebrated authors. The book tells the story of Rusty, a 16-year-old orphan who lives with his strict guardian, Mr ...
The Room on the Roof is a timeless coming-of-age novel that will resonate with a whole new generation of readers. Written by renowned author Ruskin Bond when he was just seventeen, it is the story of Rusty, a teenage Anglo-Indian boy who is orphaned and has to live with his English guardian in the stifling European quarter of Dehra Dun. Unhappy with the strict ways of his guardian, Rusty runs ...
The Room on the Roof. Paperback - October 1, 2014. A classic coming-of-age story which has held generations of readers spellbound! Rusty, a sixteen-year-old Anglo-Indian boy, is orphaned, and has to live with his English guardian in the claustrophobic European part in Dehra Dun.
Well, here we are going to discuss the character sketch of Rusty in Ruskin's first and most hit novel - The Room on The Roof. Rusty is an orphan. His parents are long dead. The year is around 1950's of India. Though India has gained independence in 1947, traces of white people are still visible in many corners of the country, like Dehradun.
Born in Kasauli (Himachal Pradesh) in 1934, Ruskin Bond grew up in Jamnagar (Gujarat), Dehradun, New Delhi and Shimla. His first novel, The Room on the Roof, which was written when he was seventeen, received the John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize in 1957.Since then he has written over 500 short stories, essays and novellas (including Vagrants in the Valley and A Flight of Pigeons) and more ...
He gets a job teaching English to a boy named Kishen, in return for a tiny room on the roof and food. He finds a loving and fun family, his independence, and even finds his 'first love' in Kishen's mother Meena. The story takes a turn, when he loses all his friends and his first love too.