lithub.com
Remarkably Bright Creatures: A Book Review (2024)
Curated by
cdteliot
2 min read
728
Shelby Van Pelt's debut novel "Remarkably Bright Creatures" weaves an enchanting tale of unlikely friendship between a grieving widow and a captive giant Pacific octopus, blending elements of mystery, magical realism, and heartwarming human connections in a small-town aquarium setting.
What's 'Remarkably Bright Creatures' About?
goodreads.com
"Remarkably Bright Creatures" follows three interconnected storylines set in the coastal town of Sowell Bay, Washington. Tova Sullivan, a 70-year-old widow, works as a night cleaner at the local aquarium to cope with the loss of her husband and the mysterious disappearance of her son Erik 30 years ago. At the aquarium, she forms an unlikely bond with Marcellus, an intelligent giant Pacific octopus who narrates parts of the story. Meanwhile, Cameron Cassmore, a directionless young man, arrives in town searching for his estranged father. As the plot unfolds, Marcellus uncovers a connection between Tova and Cameron, using his cunning to bring them together. The novel weaves themes of grief, family, and unexpected connections, culminating in revelations about Erik's disappearance and the discovery of new familial bonds
1
2
3
. Van Pelt's debut novel masterfully blends elements of magical realism with a heartwarming exploration of human resilience and the power of unlikely friendships4
5
.5 sources
About The Author: Who is Shelby Van Pelt?
shelbyvanpelt.com
Shelby Van Pelt, born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, is the author of the New York Times bestselling debut novel "Remarkably Bright Creatures"
1
2
. Now residing in the Chicago area with her husband and children, Van Pelt's background in the Pacific Northwest significantly influenced her novel's setting and themes1
2
. The book's success has led to numerous speaking engagements and book signings across the United States, including events in Massachusetts, Wisconsin, and Missouri1
. In an interview with WGN Radio, Van Pelt discussed how the book's success has changed her life and revealed that she worked on the novel for a considerable time before its publication in Spring 20223
. Her writing style, which captures grief and human connections with remarkable insight, has garnered praise from critics and readers alike4
.4 sources
'Remarkably Bright Creatures' Reviews (Videos)
youtube.com
Watch
youtube.com
Watch
What Readers Are Saying About 'Remarkably Bright Creatures'
Shelby Van Pelt's "Remarkably Bright Creatures" has garnered both praise and criticism from readers. The following table summarizes some of the key pros and cons mentioned in reader reviews:
Overall, readers have praised the novel for its unique narrative voice, touching themes, and well-crafted characters, while some criticisms focus on pacing issues and occasional predictability in the plot.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautiful, compelling writing style 1 2 | Middle section can be slow-paced 2 |
| Unique octopus narrator perspective 1 3 | Some found Cameron's character frustrating 2 |
| Heartwarming themes of friendship and hope 4 1 | Occasional use of strong language 2 |
| Well-developed, relatable characters 1 2 | Some plot elements may be predictable 3 |
| Satisfying ending 2 | Intense emotional content may be difficult for some readers 2 |
4
1
3
2
4 sources
Remarkably Bright Creatures: Awards and Accolades
Shelby Van Pelt's debut novel "Remarkably Bright Creatures" has received several accolades since its publication in 2022. The following table highlights some of the major awards and honors bestowed upon the book:
The novel's success is evident from its inclusion in multiple book clubs and its bestseller status, demonstrating its wide appeal and critical acclaim
| Award/Honor | Year |
|---|---|
| Winner of BookBrowse's Best Debut Award | 2022 |
| New York Times Bestseller | 2022 |
| Read with Jenna Book Club Pick | 2022 |
| Barnes & Noble Book Club Selection | 2022 |
| LibraryReads Hall of Fame | 2022 |
1
. These recognitions have solidified Van Pelt's position as a promising new voice in contemporary fiction2
3
.3 sources
Remarkably Bright Creatures (Photos)
amazon.com
abebooks.com
bookmarkedbyandrea.c...
Octopus Tale of Hope
1
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
$29.99
2
Remarkably Bright Creatures: A Read with Jenna Pick - Shelby Van Pelt (Hardcover)
$29.99
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
$29.99
Remarkably Bright Creatures is a heartwarming debut novel that weaves together the stories of Tova, a widowed aquarium cleaner, Cameron, a young man searching for his father, and Marcellus, an intelligent giant Pacific octopus. Readers praise the unique narrative perspective of Marcellus and the touching relationships that develop, particularly between Tova and the octopus. While some found Cameron's character less engaging, the overall consensus is that the book offers a charming, uplifting read with elements of mystery and magical realism.
Buy this if you enjoy heartwarming stories with unique narrators, a touch of magical realism, and themes of connection and hope across generations
View More
Key Features, Reviewed By
Remarkably Bright Creatures: A Read with Jenna Pick - Shelby Van Pelt (Hardcover)
$29.99
Remarkably Bright Creatures is a heartwarming debut novel that has captivated readers with its unique premise and endearing characters. The story, which features an unlikely friendship between a grieving widow and a giant Pacific octopus, has resonated with audiences for its blend of warmth, humor, and poignant exploration of loss and hope. Readers consistently praise the book's innovative storytelling, well-developed characters, and its ability to be both entertaining and emotionally touching.
Buy this if you're looking for a heartwarming, uniquely narrated story that blends humor, mystery, and emotional depth while exploring themes of friendship and healing.
View More
Key Features, Reviewed By
Closing Thoughts on 'Remarkably Bright Creatures'
ahsblueandwhite.com
Shelby Van Pelt's "Remarkably Bright Creatures" is an excellent book that has captivated readers with its unique blend of heartwarming characters, gentle mystery, and touch of magical realism. The entire book weaves together multiple stories, creating an excellent story that resonates with a wide audience. Many readers have hailed it as their favorite book of the year, praising its ability to explore complex themes like grief and connection through a handful of people in a small coastal town. The novel's hardcover fiction format allows Van Pelt's lyrical prose to shine across its chapters, earning it high ratings from critics and readers alike. At its heart, this fantastic book is a testament to the power of unexpected friendships and the enduring bond between a mother and child, making it a standout debut that has rightfully earned its place on bestseller lists and in book clubs nationwide.
1
2
3
3 sources
Related
How does the relationship between Tova and Marcellus evolve throughout the story
What themes does Shelby Van Pelt explore in "Remarkably Bright Creatures"
How does the book handle the topic of grief and loss
What unique narrative techniques does Van Pelt use in the book
How does the setting of Sowell Bay Aquarium influence the characters and plot
Keep Reading
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides: A Book Review
Alex Michaelides' debut novel "The Silent Patient" has captivated readers with its gripping psychological thriller plot, centering on a woman who refuses to speak after allegedly murdering her husband. The book has garnered widespread acclaim, winning the 2019 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Mystery & Thriller, though opinions on its twist ending and overall execution remain divided among critics and readers alike.
462
Barbara Kingsolver's Demon Copperhead: Book Review
Barbara Kingsolver's "Demon Copperhead" is a powerful modern retelling of Charles Dickens' "David Copperfield," set in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia amidst the opioid crisis. As reported by multiple sources, this Women's Prize-winning novel follows the life of its titular character from his challenging birth through a series of hardships, offering a compelling critique of institutional poverty and its impact on children in contemporary America.
585
None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell: Book Review (2024)
Lisa Jewell's psychological thriller "None of This Is True" captivates readers with its intricate plot involving a podcaster who becomes entangled in the mysterious life of a stranger, blurring the lines between truth and deception. As reported by multiple reviews, the novel's clever use of podcast transcripts and documentary-style elements adds depth to this gripping tale of manipulation and hidden secrets.
533
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout: A Book Review (2024)
"From Blood and Ash," the first book in Jennifer L. Armentrout's popular fantasy romance series, follows Poppy, a Maiden chosen from birth for a mysterious destiny, as she navigates duty, desire, and danger in a world of gods and forbidden magic. As reported by Goodreads, this captivating novel has garnered widespread acclaim, with over 600,000 ratings and praise for its blend of action, adventure, and steamy romance.
510