Common Yet Uncommon: 14 Memorable Stories from Daily Life

by Sudha Murty

Meet these people: Bundle Bindu, so named because he likes his truth with a little embellishment, Jayant the shopkeeper who doesn't make any profit, and Lunchbox Nalini, Sudha Murty herself, who brings her empty lunchbox-to be filled with food-wherever she goes!

Written in Sudha Murty's inimitable style, Common Yet Uncommon is a heartwarming picture of everyday life and the foibles and quirks of ordinary people. In the fourteen tales that make up the collection, Sudha Murty delves into memories of childhood, life in her hometown and the people she's crossed paths with. These and the other characters who populate the pages of this book do not possess wealth or fame. They are unpolished and outspoken, transparent and magnanimous.
Their stories are tales of unvarnished humans, with faults and big hearts.

Testament to the unique parlance of a small town, Common Yet Uncommon speaks a universal language of what it means to be human.

Genres: Fiction, Drama, Collections

200 pages, Hardcover

First published October 20, 2023

About the author

Sudha Murty was born in 1950 in Shiggaon in north Karnataka. She did her MTech in computer science, and is now the chairperson of the Infosys Foundation. A prolific writer in English and Kannada, she has written nine novels, four technical books, three travelogues, one collection of short stories, three collections of non-fiction pieces and two books for children.

Her books have been translated into all the major Indian languages and have sold over three lakh copies around the country. She was the recipient of the R.K. Narayan's Award for Literature and the Padma Shri in 2006.

Reviews

[Rishabh Khetawat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sudha Murthy has been one of my favourite authors since 2013, and her stories have always emanated a sense of hope or the sense to do better. While the book resonates through her simple style of writing, personality it falls short to give a sense of positivity/hope this time around. Most of the stories feel like a cautionary tale/a rant of eccentric people she grew up with rather than a story like “How I taught my Grandmother to read” and other stories from her initial books. A few stories do shine through in the book but would’ve loved to read something like her initial work.

[rutha_934 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have never written a review before, pardon me if there are any errors.
The December of 2024, I picked up this book in Bangalore Literature festival, having known that Mrs.Sudha Murty was present there I did get it signed. I should’ve known, what I was in for with the book.
Starting off; “Common Yet Uncommon” is a concoction of fourteen narratives from the eyes of Nali/Nalini (Mrs.Murty), who distinctly explains each person as a fragment of lessons that she saw and learnt during her growing years. The setting of this book revolves around North Karnataka and deeply talks about the heritage, food and the ways of the people of North Karnataka.
The immense sense of nostalgia that this book gave me has tapped the corners of my heart and left me hanging between the similar time I have lost and the memories I have made. The book talks of a rural community that is almost being exposed to urban development, but somewhere withholds the lack of straight thinking, simultaneously exposing all the bonds that people cherish in the countrysides.
It throws light on the extremes of human behaviour and proves how people are unique in terms of thoughts, backwardness, speech or action.
Each story imparts a lesson—which is humorous, and at times heart breaking as well.
As someone who grew up with grandparents for more than half of my life, in a Kannada-household as well, I relate to every character and every word in this book. When I was reading I could see these characters, as real people because for a fact they were and that is what makes it so impactful.
The beauty of Karnataka was captured through and through without a miss, every dish mentioned in the book, made me miss my grandma, got me teleported to the times when I was kid socialising with similar kind of personalities.
For a fact I have to say, we might’ve not exactly met the same people like in the book— but we would’ve always come across the plainness and simplicity of some people, which would ultimately make them “Common Yet Uncommon”.

[Pallavi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Heartwarming stories of people who live in small towns . Each character is unique in their own way but also we can relate to as these are the characters we would encounter in our day to day life . Highlights the sense of community and closeness among people in small towns which is lost among city dwellers.

[Hema · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Sudha Murthy Mam's books, ever since I started reading them , and this book is no exception . Her simple language of writing , makes it easy to read for every individual , and she puts down, the way of life as facts .

[Charu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too simplistic and repetitive. I enjoyed the small town character outlines but writing was an impediment for me to connect and dive deeper into their arcs.

[Aahana ⸆⸉ · Rating 4 out of 5]

2024’s First Read and it had to be Sudha Murty, as always.

Let me tell you, this book is definitely not for everyone.
It does not have unforgettable plot twists and mind blowing conflicts. This book is wholly simple, but you do get to learn a lot from the 182 pages of it.

If you wish to experience jaw-dropping plot twists, nerve-wracking thrillers and a mind-boggling roller coaster, this book will not give you that.
So, when to pick up this book? When you want to learn something from life, when people around you are irritating and eating your head with negative habits, this book provokes you to enjoy the postives in all these beings.

This book’s 14 chapters is not at all merely “gyaan”, its beauty and joy, instead of reading Atomic Habits (still haven’t finished, boringgg), read this. (I could finish in one day, if I didn’t have to finish unnecessary homework 🙄)

Overall, as a reader who got into reading because of Sudha Murty, this is just exceptional. (I just loved how each chapter is connected till the very end)

❤️❤️❤️

Review by Aahana M.

[Sameer Gudhate · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know those days when you're craving something comforting — not a thrill ride, but a book that feels like home? That’s Common Yet Uncommon for you. I picked it up thinking I’d read a story or two before bed, but somewhere between “just one more” and the last page, I realized I’d been smiling, tearing up, and nodding along all night.

Sudha Murty, who honestly needs no introduction if you’re into Indian storytelling, is back after seven years with adult fiction. And she hasn’t lost her magic touch. She’s the literary equivalent of your favorite grandparent — warm, wise, and full of stories that stay with you long after they’re told.

This is not one of those books with a twisting plot or shocking cliffhangers. Instead, it’s a collection of 14 beautiful, real-life-inspired stories that spotlight people you might pass by on the street without a second glance — but who have lived lives that are anything but ordinary.

You’ll meet Bundle Bindu, a compulsive storyteller who you’d love to hear at a local chai tapri, and Jayant the shopkeeper who gives so much credit you wonder how he stays in business. Then there’s “Lunchbox Nalini” — a character so vivid and lovable, you won’t be surprised to learn she’s based on Murty herself. These stories aren’t just about people; they’re about feelings, values, and the kind of quiet strength we often overlook.

Murty doesn’t write to impress — she writes to connect. Her language is simple, but not simplistic. It’s the kind of storytelling that feels like someone pulling up a chair beside you and saying, “Let me tell you something that happened back in the day…”

And honestly? That’s what makes it beautiful. She doesn’t use fancy metaphors or poetic tangents. She uses her heart. And you feel it on every page.

These aren’t characters — they’re people. People who make mistakes, who carry hopes, who do small things that end up meaning a lot. I found myself thinking, “Oh wow, I know someone like this.” And that’s the genius of Murty’s writing. She makes you look at your world a little differently.

The ideas here aren’t loud or flashy. They’re simple — kindness, honesty, generosity — but in today’s noisy world, those values feel like quiet revolutions.

Each story stands alone, so you can read them at your pace — perfect for those who, like me, sometimes get emotionally attached and need to pause before moving on. But if you read them together, there’s this beautiful sense of community that forms, with familiar names and places popping up again. Like you’re part of their little world.

Here’s what stayed with me: greatness isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet choices people make — in feeding someone hungry, in refusing to lie, in showing up day after day.

Murty gently reminds us that you don’t have to wear a cape to be a hero. Being good is enough. And wow, isn’t that a message we all need right now?

I laughed out loud more than once. I teared up too, especially when a character’s pain was so raw, it felt personal. But mostly, I finished the book with a full heart. It made me want to call up old friends, do something nice for someone, and just... be a better person.

The biggest strength? The truth in these stories. They feel lived. You can tell they come from someone who’s watched the world closely and found beauty in places most of us miss. Also, the mix of Kannada culture and small-town flavor adds so much richness.

If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping action or high-stakes drama, this won’t be your jam. But if you’re open to slowing down and listening — really listening — there’s nothing lacking here.

This book felt like a reminder. That no matter how fast the world spins, the things that matter most are still the simplest: kindness, stories, people. As someone raised in a community like the one in these pages, it hit all the right notes. It felt like a visit back home — with a little advice and a lot of love.

Common Yet Uncommon isn’t a book you read and shelve. It’s a book you come back to when you’re feeling lost or tired or just need a little hope. I’d recommend it to anyone — especially those who believe in the quiet magic of everyday life. 🌿

Give it a read. You might just walk away with a softer heart.

[Falguni Jain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sudha Murty’s “Common Yet Uncommon: 14 Memorable Stories from Daily Life” offers a delightful journey into the ordinary yet extraordinary lives of individuals, narrated with heartwarming simplicity.

One of the standout features of this collection is the author’s ability to infuse profound meaning into seemingly commonplace narratives. Through relatable characters, she unveils the idiosyncrasies and virtues of ordinary people, highlighting the richness of human experience often overlooked in our fast-paced world. She adds a personal touch to the stories that makes these tales feel like shared memories rather than mere fiction.

What I loved the most about this book is how each story has a main character yet all the other characters appear in some capacity in every story. Making it a single story of multiple characters. Just as Sudha Murty says, “Normally, people have to show family trees to show their members from different generations, but in our house, it was more of a family forest.” Such was not just her family, but her village community. This structure adds depth to the storytelling, emphasizing the communal spirit that underpins life in a small town. Murty’s keen observations and deep empathy shine through, offering readers a window into the universal truths of human nature.

The prose is characterized by Murty’s signature simplicity and accessibility. Her narrative voice, presented in a friendly first-person perspective, invites readers of all ages to connect with the characters and their experiences. This straightforward style enhances the stories’ emotional impact, allowing poignant moments to resonate effortlessly.

As readers navigate through the ups and downs of these everyday lives, they encounter a spectrum of emotions—from humor and joy to sadness and fear. Murty deftly captures the nuances of human behavior, celebrating both the flaws and virtues of her characters. Each story is a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the richness found in life’s ordinary moments.

“Common Yet Uncommon” transcends cultural boundaries, speaking a universal language of humanity. This collection serves as a gentle reminder that greatness often resides in the simplest of gestures and the quiet strength of ordinary people. This book is recommended for readers of all ages and backgrounds.

[bookmining · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Each character in this story is a pearl. I am just the thread that weaves them into this necklace." And that she did beautifully !

14 heartwarming stories portraying people of drastically different characters and how each one of them taught the author something about life. Ms. Murthy has given us a deep insight into life in many attributes through these experiences of her own. She has also set my heart into the immensely hospitable and lovable streets and people of North Karnataka, where she grew up. Short yet impactful tales are being told in this book through the eyes of a young girl, grown up girl and lastly through those of a wise elderly woman. Every character in the book is a metaphor for a very important value one must endorse in this world.

A very light hearted read! It felt very rejuvenating reading something a lil more worldly and not fictitious thriller and murder mystery 😁( not to miss that I still love those for life)!

Another element that really contributed to the reading experience is the way the author tries to translate dialogues said in Hindi or Kannada as accurately as possible into English. Reading those dialogues I could easily think of what the original dialogue must have been. Some of which were a lil more on the mocking and sarcastic side, however the effect they conveyed in English was different and felt very amusing. The author too mentions frequently on how she tries to bring about justice to the best of her ability to the parlance, she definitely brought about that justice. For me in a humorous way aswell.

[Aditi Shenoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

People often talk about a reading slump. This book could definitely get you out of it. It feels like a finding a shade on a hot summer afternoon. The simplicity with which Sudha Murty writes, definitely makes her a favourite among Indian Readers. There isn't much to think simple anthology written in simple text, talking about everyday people.
Is it a must read? Does it change your perception on life? I don't believe so, then why is it imp? It's important because the storyline represents small town Indians. These people may be considered as nosy by the larger city folks but it preaches the idea od community harmony and speaks the concept of 'Vasudaiva Kutumbakam' - something Indians have been talking for years. It's an easy read that can be completed in one sitting.

[Simran Khanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

@smtsudhamurty books are my go-to books When I need something heartwarming. Her stories give a sense of hope towards life and a sense that all will be better in no time or that all that is happening is for the better. (To be honest, it’s like dal chawal, the most comforting food you have at home.) You don’t have to think twice when reading a book by Sudha Murti. The way she writes, you feel connected to the characters.
Common yet uncommon is a book that has 14 short stories about the people living in a small town. Each character shares a bond with each other uniquely. In this book, you will encounter humility and affection for the community. The true spirit of a small town, which we big city people lack.#novel #heartwarming

[Shakthivanilla Saraboji · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guys! I never went all in on a book but this I did. I loved "Common Yet Uncommon" written by Sudha Murthy Ma'am. I was moved to tears 🥲 while reading . The book consists of 14 sweet short stories of 14 different personalities. The author has written about her own self in the last chapter giving it a cherry on top happy sweet ending that brought a wide smile on my face ☺️. Each character joins the upcoming story sequentially and the author has a way to pull you inside her story world and live with all the characters. At times I could feel the writing prowess of the author hitting roof top when the characters poured in their thoughts into words and it kept flowing like a stream. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and hope you all will too!

[Kripa Cm · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple collection of stories based on the people Murthy met during her childhood in Karnataka. As the name suggests it consists of stories of common people like a school teacher, a clerk, a priest and a postman. The perspective of Each character about society is also given. The author is presented as Nali a young girl who loves to talk and help people.
The character I like the most in this book is Bundle Bindu who has sound knowledge of history and narrates to children in the form of stories. Jayant who wants to become a businessman loots his money and fails Ananth, the husband of Jankai. The hhelpersHema Parvathi and Banabhata.

[Parvinder Kaur · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Common Yet Uncommon” by Sudha Murty

📖 Format: Paperback | Pages: 182

❤️Sudha Murty’s Common Yet Uncommon is a collection of 14 heartwarming stories drawn from everyday life. Written in simple, clear language, the book reflects human emotions, kindness, and small yet impactful moments.

❤️While the stories are relatable and easy to read, they may feel too straightforward for readers seeking depth or complexity. It’s a great choice if you enjoy light, feel-good reads with a touch of wisdom.

❤️However, if you prefer intense storytelling, this might not leave a lasting impression.

❤️A decent pick for casual reading but not among her most powerful works.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

[Varsha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mom bought this book a while ago. Found it lying around the hall yesterday and started reading it. Light read. Almost all stories are from Sudha Murthy's childhood - stories of others as she found herself surrounded by social connections (which even Facebook's graphQL would shy away from), unconditional affection and respect - which I cannot fanthom. I think I last read a Sudha Murthy book in college, they used to be very informative (for a 2G world maybe?), this one seems to be more society driven.

[Samantha]

True to its title, all these stories, were 'Common, yet uncommon'.

My first Sudha Murthy book and I enjoyed it quite a bit. It is easy read about heartwarming stories from small towns, of ordinary and extraordinary people and their stories, with no thrillers or jaw-dropping plot twists.

I enjoyed that all the characters have their own stories, yet in some capacity, they also appear in some of the other stories.

Heard a lot about Sudha Murthy's books, and it was a really good introduction to them.

[Bookish Simzz · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a good book about nalini's life how beautifully the author described every character in different chapters and found them unique in her life. Also i was noticing that after a chapter(intro of person) the person becomes part of every chapter ahead.. and yes at the end of book i was finding all characters bcoz they were really soo familiar to each other..!
Thankks to sudha murty who gave us chance to read this book which was like living in 90s ..and experiencing the miracle.!

[Rahul Nair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book is very inspiring. 14 Characters are types of people that we may encounter in our life. But they teach us a lot of lessons like to be patient, have love and affection towards others, never expect from others and focus on performing your duties. Book teaches us that Karma and time are the important teachers in our life. If you treat others badly you will be treated in same manner.
Sudha mam have done a great job in teaching us these important lessons through simple yet amazing stories

[A_Chirping_Aquarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really wrote a long and beautiful review but now I’ll do it on gram . Fro me I really loved the book , its characters , stories ,plot and so many more simple things made me reflect on my life journey so far and warmed me with how the presence of my nani and mother particularly has shaped me into becoming the individual I have become today!!!!!!!

More on it on gram . :)
Yet another book I finished in one day !! :)
I love my days when I am on reading rolls !!!

[Sneha - Parttimereaderr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Common yet uncommon is a collection of short stories from the life of the author itself.

It is a heartwarming book that connects us to different people, their opinions and their impact that they leave behind in this world and on our lives.

The book offers a fresh and unique perspective on ordinary yet extraordinary moments in life.

My favourite story of all was Parvati and Banabhatt's.

[Kartikey Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a weekend read that will bring you back to your childhood, and you will remember people who helped or shaped your childhood. Interesting stories written in easy English This book feels like I am reading about Malgudi days, as it has a common pattern of a village or town and the lives of people.

[Pratik · Rating 3 out of 5]

Common Yet Uncommon presents a collection of fourteen poignant stories that explore the lives of ordinary people with warmth and simplicity. Each narrative reflects the signature style, showcasing relatable characters who embody the quirks and virtues of daily life. The interconnectedness of characters enhances the storytelling, emphasizing community and shared experiences. Murty's accessible prose invites readers of all ages to engage deeply with the emotional spectrum of human existence. This book serves as a celebration of the beauty found in life's simple moments, making it a must-read for anyone seeking heartfelt narratives

[CK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another lovely book by Sudha Murthy. Each chapter in this book was so simple yet so profound. Each of the characters described as different chapters were so relatable and there was always something to learn from each of them. A refreshing book to read for those under reading slump.

[Surya Mohan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good and simple read of a book by Sudha Murthy which brings out the stories behind different personalities usually found in a small town or village. The story behind each individual and their life experiences are well etched and have a story and lesson to be learnt.

[Aruna Kumar Gadepalli · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a collection of 14 stories from daily life. The characters from North Karnataka deal with various aspects of culture, specific to the region.

[CHAITHANYA B · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simple light read book full of real simple people stories

[Balachandra Sarma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple language, but strong content. Life from a village

[Deepshikha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book to inculcate value system in children.

[Nafisa Dewan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beginners friendly book.
The last chapter was interesting.

[Nikita Golchha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simple, retable and delightful read.
It’s like a weekend book, you can relax and read, not put too much effort into understanding the plot.