Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt, is one of those quietly captivating stories that lingers long after the final page. The novel blends grief, mystery, and unexpected friendship into something both heartwarming and gently profound.
At the centre of the story is Tova Sullivan, an elderly widow working the night shift at an aquarium, alongside Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus with a sharp wit and an even sharper eye for human behaviour. What could easily feel whimsical instead becomes deeply moving. Marcellus isn’t just a novelty; he’s a quiet observer of human loneliness, connection, and the secrets people carry.
When I first picked up this book it was because of the impending movie adaptation, starring the amazing Sally Fields. I knew I would want to watch this, but hate not having read the original story first. I had no idea what the story was about and when faced with the possibility of a talking octopus it very nearly got put down. But I’m so glad I persevered as that wasn’t how the story panned out at all.
Van Pelt’s writing has such a calm, almost meditative quality. She explores themes of loss and aging with a sense of comfort—like sitting in stillness and letting life unfold at its own pace. The pacing is gentle, but purposeful, rewarding readers who enjoy character-driven storytelling over fast-moving plots, but it doesn’t feel slow or drawn out and I couldn’t put it down.
Tova, in particular, is reserved, resilient, and quietly grieving the disappearance of her son decades earlier. Her interactions with others, especially the lost and searching Cameron, build an almost invisible emotional arc that feels genuine and authentic rather than forced.
With Sally Field as Tova, the story feels especially well placed for the screen. Field’s ability to portray complex, emotionally layered characters makes her a natural choice. She brings warmth, restraint, and depth—qualities essential to capturing Tova’s quiet strength and vulnerability. If the film leans into the same gentle tone as the novel, her performance could anchor the entire story beautifully.
Overall, Remarkably Bright Creatures is less about spectacle and more about connection—the unexpected ways people (and even creatures) find each other. It’s a story that invites you to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the small, meaningful moments that shape a life.
Perfect for readers who love:
- character-driven narratives
- gentle emotional storytelling
- a touch of magical realism grounded in real life
It’s not loud or dramatic—but that’s exactly its charm.
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