The Parrot Who Wouldnt Talk & Other Stories

The Parrot Who Wouldnt Talk & Other Stories is a warmly funny collection of short tales from India's best-loved children's writer, Ruskin Bond. Written for children and curious readers, this book invites you into Bond's gentle world of family, mischief, and small adventures. From a grandfather who can disguise himself as almost anyone to the ever-quirky Uncle Ken, to the stationmaster Mr. Ghosh and his remarkable family, and Aunt Ruby's hilarious encounter with a parrot, these stories blend humor with heart and wonder. Bond's stories are short, engaging, and easy to savor. The book unfolds as a sequence of standalone tales, each with its own setting—from hill towns to busy stations—woven together by Bond's warm, breezy narration, with a few old favourites and some fresh tales included. The experience is enriched by lively illustrations that bring scenes to life and invite young readers to linger on the details. Whether you read aloud with a child or share it as a gentle reading duet, The Parrot Who Wouldnt Talk & Other Stories offers a comforting, entertaining journey through friendship, curiosity, and everyday magic. Charming, character-driven stories featuring a grandfather who disguises himself, quirky Uncle Ken, the stationmaster Mr. Ghosh and his family, Aunt Ruby, and a parrot Short, accessible tales perfect for read-aloud sessions or independent reading Lively illustrations that bring Bond’s humor to life Warm, straightforward narration with timeless themes of family, kindness, and curiosity Imaginative settings and gentle humor that invite kids to dream and wonder After finishing The Parrot Who Wouldnt Talk & Other Stories, readers will carry a sense of warmth and wonder—the feeling that everyday life holds small, joyful adventures. This collection invites children to imagine, to care, and to see the humor in the ordinary, leaving them with a lasting appreciation for family, friendship, and the simple pleasures of reading.