Title: Rhymes for the Times
Author: Ruskin Bond
Publisher : Puffin Books
Type: Paperback
Length: 96 pages
Genre: Poetry, Limericks, Nonsense Verse
Age recommendation – 9/10 years and up [publisher recommends 8 years+]
Here is a review by my 11-year-old daughter Ayesha who is fond of writing poems and starts the review with a self – written poem.
In “Rhymes for the Times,” a book so bright,
Ruskin Bond’s poems take a flight.
Limericks and verses, nonsense and cheer,
Show his poetical spread, far and near.
From storytelling paths, he takes a turn,
To playful humour, where laughter burns.
A renowned author, with amazing style,
Bond’s new collection will make you smile.
Content and Themes:
The book is a treasured tapestry of poems sewed with Bond’s mastery of language and his keen sense of humour that is evident throughout the collection. The poems touch on a variety of themes, including:
• Nature and Animals: Bond’s deep appreciation for nature is evident in his poems about animals, plants, and the changing seasons. His vivid descriptions and playful language bring these subjects to life, making readers smile and ponder the beauty of the natural world.
• Everyday Life: Bond finds humour in the ordinary, turning mundane activities and objects into subjects of amusement. Poems about food, daily routines, and common experiences are infused with wit and charm, making readers see the humour in their own lives.
• Human Nature: Bond’s observations of human behaviour are both humorous and thought-provoking. He captures the quirks and idiosyncrasies of people, reminding us that everyone has their funny moments. His poems often carry a subtle message, encouraging readers to reflect on their own actions and attitudes.
• If I have to say this in a poetic manner I would say:
In nature’s dance, Bond’s words delight,
With humour in the everyday’s light.
Human quirks, he captures bright,
In poems that make hearts take flight.
Style and Tone:
Bond’s writing style in this collection is simple and accessible, making it enjoyable for readers of all ages. His use of limericks and nonsense verse adds a rhythmic and musical quality to the poems, making them fun to read aloud. The tone is light-hearted and humorous, with a touch of wisdom that invites readers to pause and think.
Illustrations:
The book is beautifully illustrated, with each poem accompanied by charming and whimsical drawings. The illustrations enhance the reading experience, bringing Bond’s words to life and adding an extra layer of enjoyment. They complement the poems perfectly, capturing the essence of Bond’s playful and imaginative writing.
Personal Touch: The part I liked the most
One of the standout features of this collection is the personal touch that Bond brings to his writing. Many of the poems are inspired by his own experiences and memories, giving readers a glimpse into his life and thoughts. For example, a poem about a man who laughed too much is based on a folk tale he heard many years ago. This personal connection adds depth and authenticity to the poems, making them even more relatable and engaging.
On the downside: Cover Page is very nice and colourful. However, as we turn into the inside pages, the deep bluish greenish colour of the pages is not inviting. A softer colour or a different shade of green and a slightly increased font size would have worked well.
Conclusion:
“Rhymes for the Times” is a delightful addition to Ruskin Bond’s body of work. It’s a book that will make you laugh, think, and appreciate the simple joys of life. Bond’s playful use of language, his keen sense of humour, and his ability to find beauty in the ordinary make this collection a must-read. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Ruskin Bond or new to his writing, this book is sure to bring a smile to your face and brighten your day.
All of Ruskin Bond’s books for children can be found here.
If you enjoyed this review in verse, you can order the book from Amazon (kbc affiliate link),
CLICK & BUY NOW!Disclaimer: Ayesha is part of the #kbcReviewerSquad and received this book as a review copy from the publisher via kbc.
