Review of 'Remarkably Bright Creatures' by Shelby Van Pelt

Shelby Van Pelt's debut novel, Remarkably Bright Creatures, is the fascinating story of 70-year old Tova's bond with the Giant Pacific octopus she sees at her workplace every day. Will the clever octopus, Marcellus, hold the key to the disappearance of Tova's son 30 years ago?

Who knew I’d cry over an old lady and her special octopus? (Unless me, of course. I always cry at these books. What would Marcellus think of me?). The writing style, the well-developed characters, and the way it all comes together in the end made this a remarkably bright story. You could tell how every single sentence in the novel was carefully crafted, and the author had a kind of a nice and peaceful way of expressing grief. I fear I’m never going to be able to simply walk by an octopus ever again. That is, if I ever come across one. Come to think of it, I might pay the aquarium a visit just because of the way this book made me feel. It was an utterly delightful novel.

This is Shelby Van Pelt’s first book ever. The success! As Tova would say: I will always treasure this book.

I listened to the audiobook version on Storytel. Marin Ireland and Micheal Urie’s narrations were so amazing that at times, I had to remind myself they were only two people. If they’d told me it was a full cast audiobook, I’d have believed them instantly. I was pulled into the story from chapter one.

This award-winning novel also has a charming new movie adaptation too!

I recommend this book to everyone of every age. Honestly, a must-read for everyone.