Shelby Van Pelt’s ‘Remarkably Bright Creatures’ marks book two of the year.
I’ve started a new job at a company that has a book club, and I was very much looking forward to joining. We’re discussing this book for our first meeting of the year, and I can’t wait to chat with everyone about it.
‘Remarkably Bright Creatures’ follows the paths of Tova and Cameron. Tova is recently widowed and lost her son many years ago. At night, she cleans an aquarium, where a Pacific giant octopus is the main attraction. Cameron grew up with his aunt and has never succeeded in life. He has never gotten his life on track since his addict mum abandoned him as a child. A series of events knock them out of their ruts, and the story unfolds like a flower blooming in the spring.
I loved this book. Slow and warm, it is a bit different from my usual fare, but it enraptured me. I challenge anyone not to have misty eyes at the novel’s end. As I started the book, I told my wife, ‘I’m pretty sure this is going to ruin me.’ The writing is witty and wise, and the characters – even exasperating at times – feel real. Even though the twist becomes clear early on, its execution still packs a punch.
It is a beautiful and original story; I recommend this to everyone.
Over 20 short sci-fi and fantasy stories to warm the soul. Includes three Reedsy Writing Contest winners and several other shortlisted works.
joshuainsole.com 