Book Review: Laugh With Me
Book Name: Laugh With Me
Author: Ruskin Bond
Publication: HarperCollins Children’s Books
Genre: Humour
Laugh with Me by Ruskin Bond is a nostalgic collection of anecdotes from his life. He begins the book with:
“When we are young, we laugh at everyone except ourselves.
When we are a little older, we discover that others are laughing at us. Not so funny. But if you learn to laugh with them you will be happier than most.
And when you grow old, like me, you will learn to laugh at yourself. Then you won’t feel angry or defeated.”
He literally shares the funny moments from his life that made him laugh.
Review
The writing style of Laugh with Me is unique and leans heavily on illustrations that meticulously support each incident and anecdote. Even the quotes feel like the kind of posters we buy to decorate our rooms. From sharing his school days, when cane punishments were common, to narrating a train journey to Mumbai via Vadodara where his spectacles met with an unfortunate mishap during a tussle with a pickpocket, Ruskin Bond does not shy away from recounting the funniest and most unusual memories. Though the book has only nine short chapters, it leaves you wishing there were more.
While reading this book, readers will realize how important it is to accept our flaws. Doing so not only helps us live more confidently but also allows us to find lighter moments in life and share joy with others. The book subtly conveys the philosophy: if you can see the humour in your life and laugh at yourself from time to time, you are more likely to be happy.
This book is humorous in a way that reminds you of your own embarrassing moments that, in hindsight, make you laugh. As you read, you will likely have a constant smile on your face, reminiscing about small joys and memories. One thing worth noting is that the book is quite short and can be finished in under an hour if you only read the text. However, if you take time to enjoy the bright colours and illustrations, you may end up spending much longer with it. In fact, more than the words alone, it is the illustrations that bring the anecdotes to life, making the situations more vivid and often funnier.
For example, the anecdote about cane punishment becomes even more amusing when paired with its illustration, allowing readers to fully imagine the scene and enjoy the humour behind it.
“Stuff a couple of books down your pants,” we were advised by our friends. “Then it won’t sting too much!”
Dutifully, I shoved a couple of books down my pants
But my Housemaster was up to his tricks. After he’d administered one stroke - whack! - he said, “Out with it, Bond. Let’s see the book.”
Think of this situation, only boys’ hostels would have such scenes.
It is a light-hearted read that offers a glimpse into the life of Ruskin Bond, one of India’s most loved authors. If you have ever read his books, you are definitely going to enjoy these anecdotes and relate to them.
This review is powered by Blogchatter Book Review Program.
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