Book Review: Wise and Otherwise

Book Review: Wise and Otherwise by Sudha Murthy

Wise and Otherwise is a celebrated collection of 51 short stories by Sudha Murthy, first published in 2002. Rooted in real-life experiences, these stories are drawn from the author’s travels and encounters across India. Each one offers a meaningful glimpse into human nature, society, and values that continue to resonate even today.

The strength of this book lies in its simplicity and honesty. Murthy’s writing is straightforward yet deeply moving. She brings to light stories that are both heart-warming and heart-wrenching—stories that reveal the many shades of humanity.

One such story recounts a deeply painful incident where a man abandons his elderly father at an old age home. Shockingly, he pretends that the man is a homeless stranger and claims he has no family. In another story, Murthy visits a tribal community in the Sahyadri Hills. There, she meets an old man who, despite his limited means, imparts valuable lessons on humanity and culture.

Among the most striking episodes is her visit to a leprosy-affected colony. She calls out to an old woman, but there is no response. On stepping into the hut, Murthy is devastated to find the woman completely naked, too weak and poor to even own a piece of clothing. The image of that frail, skeletal figure wrapped only in skin is haunting and unforgettable.

Another disturbing tale is that of a pregnant woman who was burned alive by her husband over money. These harsh realities reveal the cruelty that exists in our world, especially towards women and the marginalized. At the same time, the stories also highlight kindness, resilience, and the strength of rural India.

What makes Wise and Otherwise special is its ability to make the reader reflect. Murthy portrays a broad spectrum of people—kind, cruel, wise, selfish—and helps us understand the complexities of human behavior.

The book is filled with powerful quotes that linger in the mind long after reading. A few that stand out include:

“Vision without action is merely a dream; action without vision is merely passing time; but vision and action together can change the world.”

“Life is an exam where the syllabus is unknown and the question papers are not set. Nor are there model answer papers.”

“Death, a five-letter word, scares everyone. Whether the person is a king, a billionaire, a pauper, or a beggar—no one can escape it.”

These reflections on life, death, and purpose elevate the book beyond a simple story collection—it becomes a guide to understanding the world a little better.

Wise and Otherwise is a recommended read for beginners, especially those interested in Indian society, human values, and real-life narratives. With its emotional depth and moral clarity, it’s a book that leaves a lasting impression.

– Akshatha