Books like Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
After the death of her husband, Tova Sullivan finds solace in the night cleaner shift at the Sowell Bay Aquarium, keeping busy while her 18‑year‑old son Erik vanished on a boat. One evening she meets Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus who observes the aquarium’s life without speaking.
Marcellus’s curiosity turns to detective work as he pieces together the mysterious disappearance of Erik. With Tova’s help, he must use all his remaining strength to uncover the truth, racing before the past can close the door forever. Shelby Van Pelt’s debut intertwines human‑animal bonds, lost family, and investigative suspense.
A poignant tale of grief, investigation, and the unexpected friendship between a woman and an octopus—highlighting the power of looking back to create a hopeful future.
First publish date: 2022
Genre: Suspense/General Suspense
Authors: Shelby Van Pelt
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3.6 (5 community ratings)
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