What do you think?
Rate this book
A Little Book of Love and Companionship
- 'What is the first rule of love, and what the last?' - 'How can love or friendship be good if it must end?' - 'Is a book as good a companion as a person?' - 'Is it sensible to love at all?' India's most beloved writer collects his own observations and those by some of his favourite authors and artists in this brilliant anthology on love, fellowship and togetherness. This is a book to gift yourself and every companion who has ever walked with you.
- GenresPoetryNonfiction
160 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2016
12 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
About the author
Ruskin Bond
683 books3,582 followersRuskin 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 18, 2022
I absolutely adore this collection!
One of the most comforting books I have ever read.
Pick up this book if you want to read something light, lovely musings and quotes about love.
The cover is so soothing and so is the content with hues of pink art and pink print. I mean I am crazy about this unique print in color other than black!
A book you can gift anyone, a book to gift yourself and a book to cherish during difficult times.
Go for it.
One of the most comforting books I have ever read.
Pick up this book if you want to read something light, lovely musings and quotes about love.
The cover is so soothing and so is the content with hues of pink art and pink print. I mean I am crazy about this unique print in color other than black!
A book you can gift anyone, a book to gift yourself and a book to cherish during difficult times.
Go for it.
December 10, 2025
With Ruskin Bond. The Man who gave me so much,,,,
This book is Ruskin Bond at his warmest, most affectionate, and most contemplative. This book gathers Bond’s reflections, poems, and anecdotes on love—not just romantic love, but the entire spectrum of companionship that enriches human life: friendships, family bonds, affection for pets, love for nature, and even the quiet companionship of solitude.
At its core, the book is philosophical, offering gentle wisdom on human relationships. Bond rejects grand declarations of love and instead celebrates the small gestures that sustain emotional connection: a shared meal, a walk, a letter, a kind word, or simply being present.
These insights feel authentic because they come from Bond’s own solitary but emotionally rich life.
The structure of the book is fragmentary, almost journal-like. Some sections are stories, others are reflections, while some are short poems.
This variety gives the book a mosaic-like charm. Readers can flip to any page and find something calming, thoughtful, or uplifting.
One of the most charming aspects is Bond’s writing about animals, especially cats, dogs, and the birds that frequent his window. He sees them not as pets but as fellow companions who bring joy and stability.
His affection for them reveals his deep belief that love is not confined to human relationships.
Bond also writes beautifully about solitude—the kind that nourishes rather than isolates. He argues that knowing how to be alone makes companionship richer because one approaches relationships with clarity rather than neediness.
This balanced view of solitude and connection gives the book a quiet emotional maturity.
Nature appears here not as scenery but as a companion in itself. The hills, forests, rains, and sunlit paths are all part of the emotional landscape of Bond’s life.
He suggests that one can form a relationship with the world as deeply as with a person, and that this bond can be a source of healing.
The emotional tone of the book is a mix of warmth, nostalgia, humour, and gentle melancholy. Bond does not shy away from loss—he writes about partings, distances, ageing, and the passing of loved ones.
Yet these reflections never feel bleak; instead, they highlight the beauty of having loved at all.
Romantic love appears occasionally, but always through subtle, understated storytelling. Bond avoids drama; his love stories are rooted in tenderness and quiet longing.
His reflections on the transient nature of human affection are particularly moving.
The book’s simplicity is its greatest strength. Bond writes in short sentences, clear images, and uncluttered language.
This accessibility allows readers of all ages to connect with the text, and its emotional sincerity ensures that each page resonates.
Readers often describe this book as a “companion” in itself—and that is exactly what it feels like. It is the kind of book one keeps on a bedside table, returning to during moments of reflection or emotional fatigue.
Bond’s voice is soothing, wise, and reassuring.
Ultimately, A Little Book of Love and Companionship is not just a book about love; it is an act of love.
It celebrates connection in all its forms and reminds us that companionship can be found in people, animals, nature, memories, and even in ourselves.
Most recommended.
This book is Ruskin Bond at his warmest, most affectionate, and most contemplative. This book gathers Bond’s reflections, poems, and anecdotes on love—not just romantic love, but the entire spectrum of companionship that enriches human life: friendships, family bonds, affection for pets, love for nature, and even the quiet companionship of solitude.
At its core, the book is philosophical, offering gentle wisdom on human relationships. Bond rejects grand declarations of love and instead celebrates the small gestures that sustain emotional connection: a shared meal, a walk, a letter, a kind word, or simply being present.
These insights feel authentic because they come from Bond’s own solitary but emotionally rich life.
The structure of the book is fragmentary, almost journal-like. Some sections are stories, others are reflections, while some are short poems.
This variety gives the book a mosaic-like charm. Readers can flip to any page and find something calming, thoughtful, or uplifting.
One of the most charming aspects is Bond’s writing about animals, especially cats, dogs, and the birds that frequent his window. He sees them not as pets but as fellow companions who bring joy and stability.
His affection for them reveals his deep belief that love is not confined to human relationships.
Bond also writes beautifully about solitude—the kind that nourishes rather than isolates. He argues that knowing how to be alone makes companionship richer because one approaches relationships with clarity rather than neediness.
This balanced view of solitude and connection gives the book a quiet emotional maturity.
Nature appears here not as scenery but as a companion in itself. The hills, forests, rains, and sunlit paths are all part of the emotional landscape of Bond’s life.
He suggests that one can form a relationship with the world as deeply as with a person, and that this bond can be a source of healing.
The emotional tone of the book is a mix of warmth, nostalgia, humour, and gentle melancholy. Bond does not shy away from loss—he writes about partings, distances, ageing, and the passing of loved ones.
Yet these reflections never feel bleak; instead, they highlight the beauty of having loved at all.
Romantic love appears occasionally, but always through subtle, understated storytelling. Bond avoids drama; his love stories are rooted in tenderness and quiet longing.
His reflections on the transient nature of human affection are particularly moving.
The book’s simplicity is its greatest strength. Bond writes in short sentences, clear images, and uncluttered language.
This accessibility allows readers of all ages to connect with the text, and its emotional sincerity ensures that each page resonates.
Readers often describe this book as a “companion” in itself—and that is exactly what it feels like. It is the kind of book one keeps on a bedside table, returning to during moments of reflection or emotional fatigue.
Bond’s voice is soothing, wise, and reassuring.
Ultimately, A Little Book of Love and Companionship is not just a book about love; it is an act of love.
It celebrates connection in all its forms and reminds us that companionship can be found in people, animals, nature, memories, and even in ourselves.
Most recommended.
July 8, 2019
Ruskin Bond, with his usual magic wand,
Steals you from this world,
And puts you somewhere far far beyond.
Steals you from this world,
And puts you somewhere far far beyond.
June 19, 2021
Quotes collection.
Liked few quotes from here
Liked few quotes from here
March 30, 2018
Yes, I agree this is a Bed side companion book. You can read it N number of times, Anytime. A quote a day or complete book at once. All the small- big quotes will make you feel like they are written for you, like you always feel something like this. It will resemble with your life and thoughts, it did for me at least.
For Love, For friendship and For companionship all unbounded.
For Love, For friendship and For companionship all unbounded.
October 8, 2020
Read a small and exquisite book today , full of poignant and surreal quotes ... worth owning it !
I loved this : “The most lasting relationships are usually those that have grown slowly ,without fret or frenzy. Passion is nice to experience, but the important thing is to be comfortable with someone , and not have to keep proving yourself in one way or another .”
“ No man can be called friendless who has God and the companionship of good books “- Elizabeth Barrett Browning
I loved this : “The most lasting relationships are usually those that have grown slowly ,without fret or frenzy. Passion is nice to experience, but the important thing is to be comfortable with someone , and not have to keep proving yourself in one way or another .”
“ No man can be called friendless who has God and the companionship of good books “- Elizabeth Barrett Browning
August 10, 2017
Short and sweet book - basically collection of quotes by some esteemed authors and Ruskin Bond himself. You can read it again and again. In fact it should be revisited again and again. Very positive and heart warming thoughts on love and companionship.
February 28, 2025
"What if love wasn’t about grand gestures, but the quiet moments that make us feel most alive? Ruskin Bond’s A Little Book of Love and Companionship is a masterclass in celebrating the extraordinary beauty of the ordinary."
Ruskin Bond has once again graced readers with a collection that feels like sipping chai on a rainy afternoon—soothing, nostalgic, and comforting. This petite yet profound book is a celebration of love in its simplest and purest forms, be it the companionship of a loved one, the unspoken bond with nature, or the enduring romance of solitude.
True to Bond’s signature style, the prose is unpretentious, yet it stirs emotions with effortless charm. He gently reminds us that love isn't just found in grand gestures but also in everyday moments—a shared laugh, a walk under the stars, or even in the companionship of a pet. The book’s brevity adds to its charm, making it a delightful escape you can finish in one sitting but return to endlessly.
With each passage, Bond captures the essence of human connection and paints vivid imagery of the Himalayan landscapes he so dearly loves. The blend of poetry, personal musings, and aphorisms will leave you with a smile and a renewed appreciation for the relationships you cherish.
Whether you're a hopeless romantic or someone seeking solace in life’s quieter joys, A Little Book of Love and Companionship is a gentle reminder that love, in all its forms, truly makes life worth living.
"This book is a heartfelt reminder that love is all around us—in nature, in cherished relationships, and even in ourselves. Ready to experience the magic? Share your thoughts about this literary gem or tag someone you’d love to read it with!
Ruskin Bond has once again graced readers with a collection that feels like sipping chai on a rainy afternoon—soothing, nostalgic, and comforting. This petite yet profound book is a celebration of love in its simplest and purest forms, be it the companionship of a loved one, the unspoken bond with nature, or the enduring romance of solitude.
True to Bond’s signature style, the prose is unpretentious, yet it stirs emotions with effortless charm. He gently reminds us that love isn't just found in grand gestures but also in everyday moments—a shared laugh, a walk under the stars, or even in the companionship of a pet. The book’s brevity adds to its charm, making it a delightful escape you can finish in one sitting but return to endlessly.
With each passage, Bond captures the essence of human connection and paints vivid imagery of the Himalayan landscapes he so dearly loves. The blend of poetry, personal musings, and aphorisms will leave you with a smile and a renewed appreciation for the relationships you cherish.
Whether you're a hopeless romantic or someone seeking solace in life’s quieter joys, A Little Book of Love and Companionship is a gentle reminder that love, in all its forms, truly makes life worth living.
"This book is a heartfelt reminder that love is all around us—in nature, in cherished relationships, and even in ourselves. Ready to experience the magic? Share your thoughts about this literary gem or tag someone you’d love to read it with!
April 23, 2019
A Little Book of Love and Companionship by Ruskin Bond has some of the most amazing quotes and verses about not just the romantic love but also about myriad connotations of love. According to Ruskin Bond, love is a powerful force which can save us from all the negatives in the world. This book, like the other books in this series, has verses and quotes by wise thinkers. Every page is filled up with so many emotions. Love, loss and embracing everything which is between it is the true essence of this book. Do read this one to give yourself a daily dose of wisdom and peace.
August 12, 2019
"In the end there is no desire so deep as the simple desire for companionship."
A little book of love and companionship by Ruskin abond is a cute little collection of quotes written by some esteemed authors. Readers will re-read each poem for sure. Read this book to get some peace of mind. Highly recommended for poetry loverd.
A little book of love and companionship by Ruskin abond is a cute little collection of quotes written by some esteemed authors. Readers will re-read each poem for sure. Read this book to get some peace of mind. Highly recommended for poetry loverd.
September 26, 2023
Wow what a beautiful anthology of poems and prose about love and companionship. Within the pages of this small book the words enchant you and captivate you. Honestly can't wait to read this book again and again. This is such a good bedside book to flick through and find magic between the pages 💕🥀🌸💘🍁🍂
February 19, 2026
There is a particular kind of glow in Ruskin Bond's writing, and it mirrors the warmth of the person who gave me this book. It’s a gentle reminder that love isn't always about grand gestures, but about the companionship and 'little' moments shared between two people. Reading this felt like a warm hug.
March 3, 2026
a very cute collection, fully giggle-worthy but can also be deep here and there. i didn't go for it with any expectations but it has managed to touch my heart in the first few quotes or say pages itself.
couldn't get to finish it as a whole, not return with this one to continue reading, but! felt at peace going through it as much as i could.
couldn't get to finish it as a whole, not return with this one to continue reading, but! felt at peace going through it as much as i could.
July 22, 2020
It is a short anthology of poems(rather quotes) on Love collected by Ruskin Bond. I felt that it was an unnecessary book as doesn’t really serve a purpose per se. It doesn’t introduce reader to a new genre or a new way of writing. It is just a collection of sidestep notes which can be skipped.
October 29, 2017
A bed side companion .. can be read re-read and then read some more.. quotes that warm your heart send you down memory lanes make you comtemplate .. a classic ruskin bond..
April 6, 2018
A beautiful collection of qoutes.
August 1, 2019
Amazing collection. Heart touching.
October 14, 2019
Not much needs to be said the book has some really amazing collection of quotes
January 10, 2020
Loved the book! But can't give more than two stars for just compiling a bunch of quotes...
September 19, 2020
Left me longing for love
Beautiful collection
Beautiful collection
Read
July 19, 2021Nice
September 27, 2023
Quotes are sort of fine but not great.
Lots of blank papers inserted needlessly for writing " notes" by cunning Publishers Speaking Tiger to plump up the book.
Lots of blank papers inserted needlessly for writing " notes" by cunning Publishers Speaking Tiger to plump up the book.
February 11, 2026
This book is good but I did not like a few quotes
December 8, 2020
"We must love someone.
We must keep loving all our days,
Someone, anyone, anywhere.
There must be someone
To take your hand
And share the torrid day.
Without the touch of love
There is no life,
and we must fade away."
This little book that talks of love and companionship through beautiful collections of thoughts of Mr. Bond and those by some of his favourite writers and artists. This little pink-coloured book is a perfect bedside companion to end your day in a lovely way. All the quotes give a feeling of warmth. These little snippets filled my heart with love and belongingness. Mr. Bond has very beautifully expressed the feelings of companionship and love.
"Harmony in people is as beautiful as it is in music, and harmony between two people is the outcome of companionship."
This book is sure to make you long for love.
We must keep loving all our days,
Someone, anyone, anywhere.
There must be someone
To take your hand
And share the torrid day.
Without the touch of love
There is no life,
and we must fade away."
This little book that talks of love and companionship through beautiful collections of thoughts of Mr. Bond and those by some of his favourite writers and artists. This little pink-coloured book is a perfect bedside companion to end your day in a lovely way. All the quotes give a feeling of warmth. These little snippets filled my heart with love and belongingness. Mr. Bond has very beautifully expressed the feelings of companionship and love.
"Harmony in people is as beautiful as it is in music, and harmony between two people is the outcome of companionship."
This book is sure to make you long for love.
October 10, 2020
I mean who doesn't like the ideology of Ruskin Bond?
This little 60 pager book hides the best poetry of Ruskin Bond for Love and Companionship. The cover of the book catches the attraction and would make you grab it from that bookstore. Trust me. Its pink-colored pages are in sync with the title of the book and give you all the pleasure. This book is best when you are traveling a short distance journey alone and want to read something.
And the best part is, you can carry this tiny little tome along in your handbags too! :P
This little 60 pager book hides the best poetry of Ruskin Bond for Love and Companionship. The cover of the book catches the attraction and would make you grab it from that bookstore. Trust me. Its pink-colored pages are in sync with the title of the book and give you all the pleasure. This book is best when you are traveling a short distance journey alone and want to read something.
And the best part is, you can carry this tiny little tome along in your handbags too! :P
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews