The Hill of Enchantment: The Story of My Life as a Writer

by Ruskin Bond

In his ninetieth year, India’s best loved writer, Ruskin Bond, looks back on his rich and varied life as an author. He talks about the experiences that have shaped him, the events that inspired his most famous books and stories, and how the mountains, solitude, and Pari Tibba, Fairy Hill (that he can see from his window) have influenced his work. A book of wisdom, beauty, calm, and wonder.

Genres: Nonfiction, India

128 pages, Hardcover

Published May 5, 2024

About the author

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.

Reviews

[Krutika · Rating 5 out of 5]

There has never been a time when I haven’t enjoyed @ruskinbondofficial ‘s tales. His latest book, published by @alephbookco is no different. I’m quite certain that his 90th birthday was celebrated by readers all over the world by reading The Hill of Enchantment. This slim book is a true testament of how and why we all adore him. He has this innate ability to teleport us to the hills. We do stargazing, bird watching, indulge in tales of fairies and life’s wonderful adventures- all through his quirky stories. The Hill of Enchantment is a collection of his life experiences, some of them told before but refreshing all the same.

Contrary to his fictional tales, it is his own story that fascinates me the most. As I listen to his tales of studying and discovering new authors, his journey to London and his growth as a writer, I’m reminded again of my love for this man who has managed to quite literally become everyone’s favourite author. His childlike curiosity to soak in everything that life has to offer is a lesson that I try very much to incorporate in my life. His love for nature is another reason why I keep revisiting his books because no one writes about her the way he does. The Hill of Enchantment is another mesmerising book that encapsulates his entire writing journey in just a few pages.

This sweet, funny and thoughtful book is perfect to commemorate his birthday.

Happy Belated Birthday, Rusty! Thank you for keeping the child alive in all of us 🫶🏻

[Dilip Chauhan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short book, a short story of life of Ruskin Bond becoming a an author is mix with intresting encounters, brave decisions and beautiful life lived by the author.
The book is short and one can finish it in one sitting. But words written by mr. Bond will stay forever with you.
I am a die-hard Ruskin Bond fan so I have enjoyed and got enchanted with every word written by the great writer ❤️
I hope and hope and hope that one day I will get a chance to meet my most favourite author in real life and get a chance to tell him how much I Love, how much I adore and how much clam his stories brings me to my otherwise chaotic life.

[Mukul Bhatnagar · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read. The legendary Ruskin Bond has summed up his career and personal life.

The book brings you comfort, hope and inspiration.
Best enjoyed at bedtime or on a cold winter day, sipping a hot cup of tea.

[Melina Lobo · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Hill of Enchantment: The Story of My Life As A Writer" by Ruskin Bond is a warm and thoughtful memoir where the famous author shares how his surroundings have shaped his writing. He talks about how the quiet mountains, his love for solitude, and the magical Fairy Hill have inspired his stories.

The book includes lovely illustrations that bring his words to life, making the reading experience more engaging. These pictures help readers see the beautiful places he describes.

His stories give a sense of peace and calm, reflecting the tranquillity he finds in nature. This memoir is great for fans and aspiring writers, offering a look at how Bond's connection to the natural world influences his work. It's a soothing and inspiring read that lets readers escape into the serene world that he loves.

🐾

Rated 5⭐️

[Fictionandme · Rating 4 out of 5]

Name : The Hill Of Enchantment
Author : Ruskin Bond
Genre : Memoir

My 💭:
[29/05/24 9.55AM]

Some medicines take the form of books. And this is one such book. 🙌

Since it was Ruskin Bond's 90th birthday last week, I couldn't help picking this book up now. On the top of that, my work life has been wrecking havoc on my mental health. So, the hills and valleys and flowers and the fireflies on the book's cover, beckoned me like crazy and I started reading it.

This book is basically a short memoir of the author's writing life. I had already had an idea about how his early life had been, from his short stories, but this book proved it. He has mostly lived in Dehra and produced so many masterpieces there. The way he described Dehradun and its hills, makes me want to drop everything and run off to live there too. My mind seems to be screaming - "Go go go! There lies the elusive peace you have been searching all your life. Go now!". But unlike the author, I have so many ropes tying me down here. I am wanted in my current life.

One of the many things of the author that really marked me is his helpfulness to other people. How easily he helps everyone who requires for it, without a hint of irritation or impatience. It made me sad about myself because I have become a cynic, I realise. After seeing so many people taking advantage of me and mine, I have pulled up huge walls around me. Maybe I should put up a window in the walls and let the right ones in.

I will never think about windows the same way ever, after reading this book. They are a glimpse or a peek to the outside world. The rich living life! Where so many live stories are taking place right front of us, a few feet away. When was the last time I took my time looking out my window? I can't even remember! It made me sad to realise that I hardly look through my windows and they are mostly closed.

This book is a gem. Or rather any book of Ruskin Bond sir is a gem. Sir, you are truly a treasure yourself, to us readers and the entire literary world. A very happy birthday to you Ruskin Bond sir.

P.S. I think I enjoy reading memoirs in non fiction genre. I guess it's because human lives are stories as well, right?

[Debabrata Mishra · Rating 5 out of 5]

In an era where the complexities of modern life often overshadow the simple pleasures of existence, Ruskin Bond offers a respite with his latest memoir. The confession of a writer doesn't always have to sound like it's filled with drama. Indeed, simplicity and transparency are the qualities of good writing, to which I fully subscribe. The book describes Bond’s path starting from the shy sixteen-year-old who aimed to become a famous writer, reaching its culmination in the literary God of Uttarakhand hills.

The memoir begins with the moving epilogue "The Open Window" which the protagonist, the author, poetically expresses unexpected beauty that the simple act of an open window may cause. This magic captures the spirit of the early 1900s, and it can be referred to as mundane magic which covers the whole plot. The book is divided into two main sections: It will star “My Life As A Writer” and “Life is Sweet Brother,” which are two of his works. My brother will also present another “Recommended Reading” list that he himself put together. 

In the next section the author is illuminating his genre defining experiences that have generated him as a literary person. His story is enhanced by the illustrations which transmit the landscape feelings that inspire him: from the streets as well as towns like Delhi and Dehradun to Landour - the lonely and peaceful mountain. 

The writing style of the author in the memoir is understood to be simple and breathtakingly beautiful. He proves himself to be equally proficient in conjuring vivid images and playing with economical language, respectively, which is the sign of genius in literature. The constant theme of finding some magic in every day activities is painted in a poetic way containing both solace and inspiration.

The illustrations and visuals are not mere accompaniments to the text but integral components that enhance the reader’s immersion into the author's world.

In conclusion, this memoir is an evocative and enriching read that not only chronicles the life of one of India’s most beloved authors but also serves as a gentle reminder of the beauty that lies in simplicity.

[Book_withquotes · Rating 5 out of 5]

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In “The Hill of Enchantment: The Story of My Life as a Writer,” Ruskin Bond, now in his ninetieth year, offers an intimate and captivating memoir. As I turned the pages, I felt drawn into Bond’s world, where he recounts the experiences that have shaped his illustrious writing career. He vividly describes how the serene mountains and the mystical Pari Tibba, or Fairy Hill, seen from his window, have deeply influenced his stories. This book radiates wisdom, tranquility, and a sense of wonder, providing a heartfelt journey through Bond’s life and creative process. It’s a must-read for anyone enchanted by his literary magic.

This book offers a brief autobiography of the writer’s career. The Hill of Enchantment is an assortment of his life stories, some of which have been previously shared but are nevertheless interesting. For readers and aspiring authors alike, this book is highly recommended since it provides insight into how Bond’s relationship with nature shapes his writing. The images he uses to depict the sensations of the environment that inspire him, from the streets and towns like Delhi and Dehradun to Landour, the solitary and serene mountain, enrich his tale.

Bond has created works that tackle the issues of loneliness and being alone, which are difficult for everyone to grasp, by using his inward and contemplative storytelling style. This is a charming book that takes readers back to the author’s inspirational journey and treasured anecdotes. This book explores his life, his hardships, and his development into a fervent writer. I sincerely appreciate your amazing contributions. We are grateful that you made our childhood so lovely.

[Aditi · Rating 5 out of 5]

On your 90th birthday, I joined countless others in honoring your legacy by diving into your latest book. It seemed the perfect way to celebrate the man whose words have brought so much joy, knowledge, and enchantment into our lives. Your stories inspire us to find magic, wonder, and beauty in the ordinary.

The Hill of Enchantment is more than simply a book; it's an exploration of your life that documents your progress as a writer and the lessons you've learned along the way. To some, it is a letter and a guide, full of hope and magic, as well as a walk-through of your life as a reader to the most-loved author.

When a reader reads the story of another reader then it becomes a source of lasting intoxication, a way of permanently enchanting the world. The young Rusty, who wanted solace from the hustle and bustle of the daily lives just to shift the lens and possibilties by reading books, is the one that speaks to me and tells that Reading isn't just about pleasure but is a way of living life or a thousand lives.

I've noted down the authors you've read and mentioned in the book. Though the list is long but I will look for a winter in solace to read them all.

The Delhi that you talk about went through a lot of changes but still holds the same timeless pride in itself. This juxtaposition of the ancient and the modern is what we are living for. This places can be harsh on people in its ways so either you love it or you don't but thank you for being a part of the list of things that Delhi will always flaunt.

Thank you for the joy, wonder, and inspiration your stories continue to provide. You have a rare gift for keeping the spirit of childhood alive in all of us, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Wishing you many more years of health, happiness, and storytelling.

With deepest admiration,
Aditi Bhardwaj

[Nilesh Chogle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hill Of Enchantment by Ruskin Bond is an award winning book. The golden book awards 2025 has selected this international author apart from others. This book is a kind of memoir written in a typical Ruskin Bond's writing "matter of fact" style of articulating his entire life as a writer. How He has undergone the ups and downs of life as a writer. How he wrote his first book, " The Room On The Roof ". How he lived his life with simplicity changing destinations from time to time. In his 90th year how India's best loved writer, Ruskin Bond, has looked back on his rich and varied life as an author. How his staying in the mountains of the Himalayas, in Dehradun, Mussoorie, in the solitudes and serenity of the mountains has influnced and shaped his life.How he looked from the window and wrote in solitude about Pari Tibba ( meaning Fairy Hill). The book has his 90 years wisdom as a writer and how beauty, calm and simplicity is a virtue that he has imbibed in his personality. How he began his writing career with the then "The Illustrated Weekly of India". His association with C.R. Mandy, The books that he has read and how these foreign writers ( classics) have helped him read the best in literature. How all writers are egoists, or in other words " narcissists", praise and self adoration / attention seekers. The pitfalls of a writer when in a catch - 22 situation and how writers should avoid writing that could even, at times land them in a jail. A very suttle book about the good and bad things in a writing career! There are perls of wisdom in this latest book. But for me his short stories always facinated , e.g., Susanna's seven husbands. Its a good book when one needs to read at liesure. The cover design of the book is enticing and innovative. Nilesh Chogle

[Deotima Sarkar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruskin Bond brings us his multifaceted memoir as he reminisces on his 90 years of living. Considered as a master in finding poetic depth in nature and for being a great story teller, he admits us in his universe within which he expresses his inner thoughts and the moments that actually led him to the career that everyone acknowledges. This book, indeed, is a testimony to Bond's unfailing ties with a mountainous location, silence, and his Pari Tibba, in particular, Fairy Hill, where he looks outside through the window. This hill, which is wild and majestic and becomes an alluring place that Bond uses to recharge his storytelling passion, is associated with a kind of power that the past is always capable of summoning.
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Bond's contemplation in this memoir is not merely directed towards places that have influenced him but also towards the process of writing which is for him exactly what matters. By means of his internal and meditative way of storytelling, Bond has managed to create masterpieces that address the problems of being lonely and being alone, which are not easily understandable to every individual.
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His journey in the literary world has been summarised in 'The Hill of enchantment'. Starting from his journal writing in school, his days with his father, step family, from winning awards in school, life outside India, first publication of five rupees to being a best selling author - these and every other aspect has been included. It's almost like hearing him sit and speak and not a book.
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What can I but say about this book - except that it left me with a minute amount of the mammoth wisdom it has and a desire to learn from nature and translate them into life.

[Namratha · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I am just one small writer working from the top of a fairly big hill. I write because I can express myself better with a pen than with my faltering tongue. I write because I love words and what you can do with them. I write because I love this planet and all that’s beautiful upon it, and because I want to record my impressions of it. I write because I was born to write.”
- Ruskin Bond

And these lines perfectly describe this pert gem by the wonderful Ruskin Bond.

I picked up this book for 2 reasons :
1. Mr.Bond and his comforting, witty prose that transports you to the hills, valleys, small and forgotten pockets of India, the quirks and foibles of different characters will always be a balm for my senses.
2. On a dizzier note, the book is a bluish-purple hardbound beauty with purple-edged pages. Considering my love for BTS and their association with the color purple, this book had to find a place on my shelf.

And the book doesn’t disappoint. As one of India’s most loved writers enters his ninetieth year, he takes us back on his journey to becoming and being a perpetual writer. From the books that influenced him, to the fodder that he pick and processed from his old diaries, to his interactions with the stalwarts of the literary world (never ever told with the intention of name-dropping because this man is beyond such unnecessary embellishments), his cozier and also bizarre encounters with the people and animals around him, and finally to his beloved Pari Tibba (Fairy Hill) that he can gaze upon from his window…Mr.Bond delights in his quiet and unassuming way.

A perfect read for a rain-washed morning.

[Rahul Vishnoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

-An Enchanting Man-
Review of The Hill of Enchantment by @ruskin
🖋️📖

Recently, it was Ruskin Bond’s 90thbirthday. Now a nonagenarian, at least three of his books were published on this occasion by three separate publishers. How and when exactly did Bond become so famous and loved by kids and adults alike? Bond’s latest book, The Hill of Enchantment, tries to answer this question by taking readers through his journey in the publishing world in England and India.

If you are a fledgling writer and wonder now and then how famous writers become famous, The Hill of Enchantment is the book for you. Is there a better person to inspire a young person who wants to be a writer than a nonagenarian who has not stopped writing yet? Ruskin Bond writes in detail about his writing journey that started when he was 12 with a short story. Using scratchy quills that had to be dipped into ink and blotted with paper, he began his career as a writer.

Bond shares that bibliophiles resent the declining reading habits in the current times, but in the 1940s and 1950s, when he was a kid, reading was even rarer. Barring Bond, there was just one more boy in his class who was a reader. Bond shares many such incidents that end up inspiring beacons for writers who wish to get published. Even for an ordinary reader, these anecdotes serve as a magnifying mirror into his illustrious life.
🖋️📖
Read the rest of the review on @purp

[Shruti k · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wishing you a very happy birthday sir @rus

Growing up with Ruskin Bond's books has sparked a profound love for nature within us. Whether it's the adventures in "The Room on the Roof" or the story of "The Girl in the Blue Umbrella," his stories have not just entertained us but also enriched our lives with important life lessons.

I recently had the opportunity to delve into a book chronicling the life and struggles of Ruskin Bond, one of the most beloved authors of our time. Like all of us, Bond's journey was marked by unexpected twists and turns. From his humble beginnings and childhood challenges, including relocating with his mother and sharing a room with step-siblings, to navigating various jobs before finding his calling as a writer. Throughout the book, Bond reflects on his enduring love for nature and windows, finding solace in observing the world outside. It's a testament to resilience and the pursuit of passion amidst life's uncertainties.

Despite facing challenges, the author was fortunate to meet incredible people who supported him throughout his writing journey. He shares his transformative experiences and explores how nature has deeply influenced his creative work.

An enchanting book that transports readers back to the cherished memories of the author's stories and his inspiring journey.

[Partha Pratim · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌿✨ “I write a story because something touches me. I hope it touches you too.” — Ruskin Bond
📘 The Hill of Enchantment: The Story of My Life as a Writer
🎉 Celebrating the 91st birthday of India’s most beloved storyteller, Ruskin Bond!

In this deeply personal memoir, Bond invites us into the heart of his writing journey — not with grand tales of fame, but with the quiet, gentle power of memory, place, and emotion. 🏞️ He writes not just of success, but of silence, solitude, and the soft rustle of leaves outside his Landour window.

Through The Hill of Enchantment, he retraces the winding paths of his life — from a lonely boy finding solace in books, to a writer who turned the misty hills, bustling bazaars, and curious children of India into immortal tales. ✍🏼 Each chapter reads like a walk with an old friend who has lived gently but fully.

This isn’t just a writer’s autobiography. It’s a love letter to nature, to moments that pass quietly, and to the magic of storytelling itself. 🌳✨ It reminds us that inspiration isn’t loud — sometimes, it sits patiently on a windowsill or waits behind a hill called Pari Tibba.

Whether you’ve read him once or a hundred times, or even if you’re discovering him today — this book holds something precious for everyone: wisdom wrapped in simplicity.

#RuskinBond #TheHillOfEnchantment #BookSummary #IndianAuthors

[Mahi Aggarwal · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, Happiest birthday to my all-time favorite author, Mr. Ruskin Bond. You have an unparalleled gift for us, for connecting us to nature and the serene beauty of the hills.

This book is a testament to his talent, and it truly needs no review—it is flawless. This book delves into his life, his struggles, and his journey to becoming a passionate author. Your work radiates simplicity, connection, and a profound love for nature.

I deeply admire you. From first encountering your name in textbooks to becoming a devoted fan of your work, I have read and cherished many of your books. I am delighted that publishers continue to present your work with the excellence it deserves.

May you continue to write many more books for us, allowing us to remain connected to the land that shapes our childhood into the best version.

Wishing you health and happiness always, Mr. Bond. Thank you so much for your incredible contributions.

I am forever grateful. ❤️

[Sonali Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last month I've been reading multiple books; rather should I say I've been picking up-reading a few pages- another book! And this circle goes on and on and on (read it in the tune will you?)

But favourites always happen to the be saviour right? Ruskin Bond's new book -The hill of enchantment and thissss was all I needed to come out of the slump! BOND is favourite for a reason! And I am sure all the Bond lovers will agree!

Just look at the cover so pretty! This book is about his journey of becoming a writer, his experiences and how he used to work at different places! Freelancing back in early 1950s. YES. His days of meeting Padmaja Naidu, writing the biographies of Nehru's family and him becoming a renowned author!

The hardships he faced, the phase of his prison days and a lot more! Being a BOND fan, if you don't read this book don't call yourself a BOND fan then.

❤️Loved this to the core :)

[Ankita Aakankshya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is kind of Ruskin Bind's memoir and i throughly enjoyed the book. It basically creates a roadmap of how his life has flowed from his childhood to adolescene and onto his productive years and finally his golden age.
He had a big contribution in my love for reading. His works introduced to me by father and stories like "The room on the roof", "Delhi is not far", "Night train at deoli" etc are etched in my mind.
Its a great book ❤️💜❤️

[A_Chirping_Aquarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many stories I don’t knew about earlier.

So many anecdotes.

I read this book in parts but it has inspired me to read mor and made me feel so pour dog myself just cause I am ready and I am all the more ecstatic because of it. !!

[Diya Waghmare · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading this one, although it felt a bit unfocused at the end.