Mr Oliver’s Diary: Takes one back to school

Author: Ruskin Bond
Publisher: Penguin Books India
Price: Rs150
Classification: Fiction (under children’s category)

Certain books evoke feelings of nostalgia, propelling one on a walk down memory lane.  Thoughts about our school days always brings back fond memories of our friends and teachers and the numerous happy moments shared with them. Ruskin Bond’s latest book ‘Mr Oliver’s Diary’ is a record of the many memorable moments of the students and teachers of a prep school. It creates a sense of longing in the reader for the good old times when he / she was a child and life was stress-free.

The story unfolds in the backdrop of Simla, similar to the setting in several of Ruskin Bond's earlier works. The narrative starts off by describing the train journey of a teacher — Mr Oliver — in the company of hungry and mischievous boys. Back at school, there never is a boring moment, and Mr Oliver records the hilarious events taking place on an everyday basis in his diary. Right from the notes on his pet parrot, sleepwalking students and the eccentric headmaster, to that about his secret infatuation towards a Miss Ramola, his entries are witty and entertaining. His escapades with ‘Bhoot aunty’, frogs in the vicinity and a prowling leopard constitute the latter part of the book.

Mr Oliver seems to be another character of Bond who will be adored by the kids. A vivid narration of his escapades ensures that there exists never a dull minute for the readers. Written primarily for children, it is a book adults can enjoy as well. The pranks and jokes portrayed and the element of mischief underlying the narrative makes it a hilarious read. Those who have enjoyed Bond’s earlier works can be assured of a trip to the foothills of the Himalayas once again with his simple and inspired style of writing.

Overall the book proves to be a light read in terms of pricing and content.