Remarkably Bright Creatures: A Novel

Now adapted into a Netflix film.

Author: Shelby Van Pelt 

Genre: Mystery

Rating: 4.6

Review: If I had to describe Remarkably Bright Creatures in one sentence, I’d say it feels like sitting near an aquarium window on a rainy evening and listening to the story about grief, loneliness, and second chances. The premise sounds unusual at first, an elderly widow befriends a giant Pacific octopus. yet the emotional core of the novel feels deeply human.

Tova, the older protagonist, is probably the strongest part of the book. She is stubborn, routine-driven, emotionally guarded, and exhausted by years of unresolved grief. Her loneliness is written with restraint, which makes it hit harder. And then there’s Marcellus the octopus — sarcastic, observant, oddly wise, who steals scenes without turning the novel into fantasy.

What I liked most is that the story understands small emotions. It’s less about dramatic twists and more about people carrying invisible baggage and sadness for decades. The aquarium setting adds this calm and reflective atmosphere.

The story moves slowly in the beginning, and parts of the plot are fairly predictable. If someone goes in expecting literary complexity or a fast-paced mystery, they may end up disappointed. The writing style is accessible and warm rather than deeply poetic or experimental. Some side characters also feel slightly “Hallmark movie” at times.

For readers who enjoy comforting literary fiction, emotionally healing stories, or books like A Man Called Ove, this novel works beautifully. This book will try to soften you. Also, the novel is now being adapted into a Netflix film, which makes it even more exciting for readers discovering it now.

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