Discovering Friendship Beneath the Waves: A Review of Remarkably Bright Creatures
When I first stumbled upon Remarkably Bright Creatures: A Novel by Shelby Van Pelt, I was instantly intrigued—how could a story about a giant Pacific octopus be anything but whimsical? The book’s premise felt like a whimsical leap into the unknown, but I quickly realized it was much more than just that. It’s a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the unexpected connections that pull us through life’s toughest moments.
At the heart of the novel is Tova Sullivan, a widow who spends her nights cleaning the Sowell Bay Aquarium. Since the disappearance of her son Erik thirty years ago, Tova has maintained a busy routine as a way to cope with her grief. When she forms a tentative yet deeply enriching friendship with Marcellus, the aquarium’s grumpy octopus, the story unfurls into a tapestry of connection, healing, and revelation. Marcellus isn’t just any octopus; he’s a clever creature with insights about life in and out of his tank, acting as both a mirror and a detective in Tova’s journey.
Van Pelt’s writing style is both stunning and approachable, effortlessly weaving together humor and heart. The pacing flows like the gentle ebb of the tide, drawing readers into Tova’s world while keeping the stakes emotive. One quote that lingers with me is when Tova reflects on her never-ending cycle of cleaning—each swipe of the mop symbolizing her attempt to maintain control over the chaos of grief. “One cannot recover… but one must move on,” she muses, a sentiment that resonated with me profoundly as I reflect on my own losses.
While Tova is a richly fleshed-out character wrestling with complex emotions, the secondary characters shine as well. Cameron, the man who occasionally interacts with Tova, initially comes off as a lackluster burnout. But as the narrative unfolds, we see his layers, his struggles, and his attempts to find meaning, which adds depth to the story. Even Ethan, an old shopkeeper, surprises us with unexpected connections to Tova and Marcellus, reminding us how intertwined our lives can be, regardless of age or circumstance.
As I read through the book’s emotional highs and lows, I couldn’t help but chuckle at Marcellus’ dry wit and keen observations about human behavior. His perspective adds a delightful layer, offering something you didn’t know you were craving—a wise octopus serving up lessons about caring and connection.
Ultimately, Remarkably Bright Creatures is more than just a beach read; it’s a heartfelt reflection on loneliness and the extraordinary places we find healing. I believe that readers drawn to stories about unconventional friendships will find solace and joy in Tova and Marcellus’ journey. This is a book for those who seek a little magic amid the mundane, and perhaps a reminder that understanding often comes from the most unexpected corners of our world.
So, if you’re looking for a novel that intertwines humor, depth, and the complexity of the human experience—all through the lens of a remarkable octopus—look no further. Van Pelt’s stunning debut is a gentle nudge to reclaim hope in the wake of sorrow. I left the pages of this book not just with fond memories of Tova and Marcellus, but also with a renewed belief in the healing power of connection.