In the novel "Remarkably Bright Creatures," Tova Sullivan, coping with her husband's death and her son's mysterious disappearance 30 years ago, finds solace working at Sowell Bay Aquarium. Her bond with Marcellus, a wise giant Pacific octopus, evolves into a remarkable friendship. Tova's son disappears, and smart detective Marcellus manages to reveal the mystery. 

Shelby Van Pelt's debut is a warm tale of friendship, recovery, and hope. Like "A Man Called Ove," the novel is a delicate weaving of humor and sensitivity that creates an unforgettable tender story. "Remarkably Bright Creatures" is an inspiring story that does not let readers forget the past and shows what avenue can lead to a once-impossible future.

Van Pelt alternates between adhering to flash fiction and handling cats or children. HarperCollins produced her first novel, "Sowell Bay Aquarium," in May 2022, with themes of friendship, healing, and hope. Although Van Pelt grew up in the Pacific Northwest, she currently lives in Chicago's suburbs, craving after her hometown mountain.

Praises from Publications

This book is hailed as an ultimately feel-good and sensitive debut, exploring the theme of love, lost and found in unexpected places. The novel's unique narrative featuring a widow's bond with a clever octopus offers a refreshing and relatable take on grief and human connections. Praise from publications like the Washington Post, Elle, and Marie Claire emphasizes the novels' brilliance in illuminating the darkness of loss.

Business Insider anticipates its impact on hope and reckoning, while GoodHousekeeping.com lauds it as a beautiful exploration of friendship and family. BookPage commends the charming prose, highlighting the profound humanity of flawed characters. Kevin Wilson praises its finely tuned writing and the portrayal of family, loss, and newfound connections.

A review from My Heart is Pen praises the exceptional writing in the novel, highlighting the impressive prose, meaningful dialogues, and the absence of negative comments about the writing style. The characters are lauded for their complexity and authenticity, with the author skillfully capturing their unique personalities and creating a solid emotional connection. Adding an original perspective from a bright octopus is described as delightful, even evoking tears with a poignant moment.

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The intricate and well-thought-out plot maintains the reviewer's attention from start to finish, eliciting genuine emotional reactions and prompting reflection on the complexities of human behavior. The author's ability to portray characters' actions based on their personalities and histories is commendable, emphasizing the novel's exploration of potential misunderstandings and their impact on happiness. 

Embarking on a Literary Journey

The novel is a poignant and heartwarming exploration of grief, friendship, and hope. The book skillfully weaves humor and sensitivity into a memorable and tender narrative. With accolades from renowned publications and authors, the book promises a unique reading experience that delves into the complexities of loss and the unexpected connections that emerge in its wake.

Van Pelt's exceptional writing, well-crafted characters, and the inclusion of a wise octopus as a narrator contribute to the novel's charm. Readers are invited to take up this remarkable story that faces the past and presents a road home toward an unexpectedly bright future. "Remarkably Bright Creatures" is an invitation to take a literary journey filled with emotion, laughter, and the transformative ability of human connections. 

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