Pens and Places

  Relishing in the era of this precious ‘Serviceberry’ is a totally different experience Dr. Robin has given through this book. This is my first read in the field of environmental science which focuses on simple messages using factual work. This book focuses on the art of gift economy. Author has shown the natural trend of enjoying abundance in the most elementary ways. Different plants with its innumerable cultural importance, honoring of seasonal farming, the selfless offering by plants and the same by many contributors like birds, bees, wind, sun, soil, microorganisms and many more - everything contributes to the planet in their own way. This gratitude flows towards the plant elders and radiates to the rain, to the sunshine, to the improbability of bushes spangled with morsels of sweetness in a world that can be bitter. Author emphasizes on the grateful offering a plant has to give, when nobody has any claim to these berries and still, anyone can have in their bucket.  The ...

Can we really pin this precious day down on the pages of a man-made calendar? Honestly, I didn’t even know in my childhood that there’s specifically a DAY decided for Mothers, all around the globe. I am not even sure now that when I am wishing my mother on this occasion, does she think of me less or more? I mean, for all those years, when she really needed the appreciation while carelessly running behind my needs and demands and tantrums and teenager-phases, I was not there for her to wish  - “Hey mom, Happy Mother’s Day!”. Either I was too shy, or too irresponsible to consider a day to take account of her selfless efforts of motherhood. I am not saying I was a troublesome daughter, but the act of cherishing someone’s actions in words was not taught to us. But with time, with real adulthood and responsibilities, now when I look back to all those lost thirty “Mother’s Day” - when I didn’t wish her, I feel I should go back and hug her tightly, and tell her only two words - “Thank you...

“A Book of Simple Living” is the simplest form of nature’s bliss anyone can read from the treasures of Ruskin Bond. This book is, though, a brief note from the hills, but can leave a greater impact in every reader’s mind.  Some notes are from the author's earlier lifestyle, some are from his existing mundane yet pleasurable life, and some are the reminders for people like us to enjoy the little moments. What I love the most is the ease with which Bond has portrayed his observations. You won’t believe it, I got to know so many wildflower species through his piece, and now I am more eager to find those little shrubs in the mountains, whenever I get a chance to visit mountains.  I thoroughly enjoyed the elementary rhythms through Bond’s words. And the snippets like this, will surely keep someone’s heart warm and cozy, anytime, anywhere. -  “It’s the simple things in life that keep us from going crazy. They contribute more to our general happiness and health than acts of pass...