Remrkably Bright Creatures | By Shelby Van Pelt

My thoughts

Narrative and Plot

Remarkably Bright Creatures has a multiple points-of-view narrative style, but the standout is, of course, Marcellus, the octopus. Marcellus is the soul of this entire journey.

This is a slow-burn literary fiction novel with just a hint of mystery. The slow-paced life of a small-town community, where everyone knows everyone and is involved in each other’s business ,is portrayed endearingly in this story. There is a poignant beauty in the way the book carries its emotional weight, whether it be grief or loneliness.

Characters and Conflicts

There are multiple points of view in the story, but Tova and Marcellus are the true protagonists, as far as I’m concerned. This is a story about their relationship – how they are, metaphorically, mirror images of each other in their loneliness and grief.

Cameron is a textbook example of a misguided young man. It seems he shares many parallels with his mother, yet he ultimately finds a better anchor than the one life handed her.

Ethan and the rest of the ensemble add value to the story, making you genuinely feel for each of them and their fates. At times, you also see them through Tova’s eyes, chuckling along with her.

Conclusion

Remarkably Bright Creatures is an exceptional read that delves into human emotions through the lens of an outsider—an octopus in captivity who just happens to be brilliant.

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