54 pages • 1 hour read
358
Novel • Fiction
Washington State • Contemporary
2022
Adult
18+ years
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt tells the story of an elderly cleaning woman, Tova Sullivan, who befriends an intelligent octopus named Marcellus at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. As Tova searches for answers about her son's mysterious death, her path crosses with Cameron Cassmore, a man seeking his estranged father. Their lives intertwine, revealing deep truths about grief, family, and connection. This novel prominently concerns a death by suicide.
Heartwarming
Emotional
Serene
Contemplative
816,601 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Shelby Van Pelt's Remarkably Bright Creatures blends charm and emotional depth, with a quirky octopus adding unique appeal. Critics praise its heartfelt storytelling and well-drawn characters, though some find the plot meandering. Overall, it's a compelling read that balances humor and poignancy.
A reader who enjoys heartwarming, character-driven stories about unexpected friendships and personal growth will love Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. Fans of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman and Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple will find Van Pelt’s debut equally enchanting and emotionally resonant.
816,601 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
358
Novel • Fiction
Washington State • Contemporary
2022
Adult
18+ years
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