Remarkably Bright Creatures
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Remarkably Bright Creatures
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Remarkably Bright Creatures
Remarkably Bright Creatures is a heartwarming and compelling debut novel by Shelby Van Pelt, weaving together themes of loss, love, and unexpected friendships in an unforgettable narrative.
After losing her husband and grappling with the mysterious disappearance of her 18-year-old son Erik three decades ago, Tova Sullivan finds solace in working the night shift as a cleaner at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. Her routine is disrupted when she encounters Marcellus, a curmudgeonly giant Pacific octopus who has a keen eye for details and a penchant for solving mysteries.
Marcellus, with his sharp mind and extraordinary observational skills, gradually pieces together the clues surrounding Erik's disappearance. His bond with Tova becomes the axis on which the story turns, leading to moments of revelation and a poignant journey towards healing.
Shelby Van Pelt masterfully blends humour, emotion, and an undercurrent of mystery to create a tale that is as tender as it is intriguing. The unique perspective of Marcellus adds a fresh layer to the narrative, making it truly immersive.
Critically Acclaimed:
“Remarkably Bright Creatures [is] an ultimately feel-good but deceptively sensitive debut. . . . Memorable and tender.” —Washington Post
“Full of heart and humour . . . I loved it.” —Ruth Hogan
“Will stay with you for a long time.” —Anstey Harris
“I defy you to put it down once you’ve started.” —Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
Van Pelt’s debut novel is a reminder that sometimes taking a hard look at the past can help uncover a future that once felt impossible. The story’s beautifully nuanced characters and the unique friendship that develops between Tova and Marcellus will captivate readers and linger in their minds long after the final page is turned.
“You won’t be able to put it down because when you’re not reading this book you’ll be hugging it.” —Jamie Ford
“Truly original and touching.” —Helen Hoang
Reader Reviews:
“I couldn't put it down”
“Marvelous, heartwarming, brilliant”
“I enjoyed every second”
“I was gripped from the first page”
“Read it, there's no way you won't fall in love with Marcellus the octopus!”
“Goodness me, what a unique and wonderful book.”
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Reviews of Remarkably Bright Creatures describe it as an original and feel-good mystery packed with memorable characters. The book is praised for its heartfelt humour and its elegant portrayal of a widowed woman's connection with a clever octopus. Critics commend the story for its exploration of family, loss, and the transformative power of connection, calling it a charming, surprising, and luminous tale.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781526649676
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 20 July 2023
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Width: 129.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 0g
Pages: 384
About the Author
Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Shelby Van Pelt lives in the suburbs of Chicago with her family. This is her first novel.
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