Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra

Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra is a collection of 14 short stories written by Ruskin Bond. It was published in 1991. He was awarded Sahitya Academy Award in 1992 for it.

Theme
"Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra" is a collection of autobiographical stories written by Ruskin Bond. The book captures the author's childhood memories and experiences growing up in the picturesque town of Dehradun in India. Here is a brief summary of the book:

The book opens with Bond's early childhood and his deep connection with nature. He describes the beautiful trees that surrounded his home in Dehradun and how they served as companions throughout his life. Bond's vivid descriptions paint a nostalgic picture of the town and its natural surroundings.

As the stories progress, Bond shares various anecdotes and encounters from his childhood. He reminisces about his friendships with local children and the adventures they embarked upon together. He also introduces readers to his family members, including his eccentric grandmother and his beloved father. These personal narratives highlight the importance of relationships and the impact they had on Bond's upbringing.

Nature remains a prominent theme throughout the book, as Bond describes his explorations of the nearby forests, rivers, and mountains. He vividly portrays the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world, capturing the essence of Dehradun's landscape.

The book also delves into the author's experiences at school, both in Dehradun and at a boarding school in Shimla. Bond reflects on the challenges he faced as a student and the teachers who left a lasting impression on him. These episodes provide insights into his formative years and the influences that shaped his love for writing.

"Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra" is not just a collection of personal memories but also a reflection on the changing times. Bond discusses the effects of urbanization and industrialization on his hometown and laments the loss of green spaces and the encroachment on nature.

Throughout the book, Bond's simple and evocative writing style captures the essence of his childhood in Dehradun. He shares his love for nature, his experiences, and the warmth of human relationships, ultimately creating a nostalgic and heartfelt tribute to his hometown and the memories it holds.

Overall, "Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra" is a captivating collection of autobiographical stories that transport readers to the author's idyllic childhood in Dehradun, while also reflecting on the passage of time and the importance of preserving our natural heritage.

Comments
As per India Today, "Like Dom Moraes, Bond is completely at ease with British-English idiom: he describes descending train passengers as 'debouching'. Yet his precise and reflective prose is closer to Jim Corbett's in being more homegrown: he speaks of khuds, langurs and rustic Pahadi friends."