Remarkably Bright Creatures: ‘That Octopus Book’, the international bestseller, now a major Netflix film

Such a great novel! So happy to buy this!

Lovely history

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt is heartwarming and comforting, leaving the reader with a bittersweet feeling—sad to say goodbye to the characters, yet grateful to have been part of their journey. The story follows Tova Sullivan, a widow who spends her nights cleaning the Sowell Bay Aquarium, and Cameron Cassmore, a young man who unexpectedly finds himself single, unemployed, and without a place to stay. Readers are also introduced to Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus living at the aquarium. Intelligent and mischievous, Marcellus avoids human interaction when he can, yet he is gradually charmed by the small woman who cleans the glass of his enclosure each night. Shelby brilliantly portrays his curious and perceptive nature, at times allowing the reader brief insight into the workings of his mind. As the story unfolds, the reader is gently drawn into the intertwined lives of all three characters. What makes this book so compelling is the way the author captures the softness and perseverance of each character, despite the challenges they face. One of the most enjoyable elements is the brief, interspersed windows into Marcellus’s mind, captivating the reader with his honest and bemused reflections. However, some readers may find the momentum slows briefly toward the end, as the characters take a bit longer to uncover the final pieces of information. Remarkably Bright Creatures is a wonderful choice for readers seeking a light, wholesome, and heartfelt story. You grow to love these characters and think of them with genuine affection. This book is truly more than just a beautiful cover.

A pleasurable ready, great for the Summer...fluid, uncomplicated, heartwarming.

2026 has been an exceptional reading year for me, and Remarkably Bright Creatures has been one of its finest discoveries. Shelby Van Pelt delivers a heartfelt novel filled with quiet wisdom, gentle humour and emotional depth. The characters are wonderfully realised but it is Marcellus-the perceptive giant Pacific octopus-who steals the show with his wit, intelligence and surprising humanity. While the story embraces a few happy coincidences, its exploration of grief, healing, friendship and found family is so sincere that it's impossible not to be moved. This is the kind of book that leaves you with a lasting sense of warmth and wonder.