Review: Remarkably Bright Creatures

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Remarkably Bright Creatures is not a cat book, although a cat is featured in it, but it is such a wonderful book, I just had to share it with you. It’s one of these books that will stay with you long after you read the final page.

From the publisher:

After Tova Sullivan’s husband died, she began working the night shift at the Sowell Bay Aquarium, mopping floors and tidying up. Keeping busy has always helped her cope, which she’s been doing since her eighteen-year-old son, Erik, mysteriously vanished on a boat in Puget Sound over thirty years ago.

Tova becomes acquainted with curmudgeonly Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus living at the aquarium. Marcellus knows more than anyone can imagine but wouldn’t dream of lifting one of his eight arms for his human captors—until he forms a remarkable friendship with Tova.

Ever the detective, Marcellus deduces what happened the night Tova’s son disappeared. And now Marcellus must use every trick his old invertebrate body can muster to unearth the truth for her before it’s too late.

Partially written in the octopus’ voice, this book is about how grief and loneliness can be transformed in mysterious and magical ways. The story is so original and the characters are utterly lovable despite or maybe because all of their eccentricities and flaws.

“Humans. For the most part, you are dull and blundering. But occasionally, you can be remarkably bright creatures.”

The cat in the book does not play a central role, but reinforces the premise a friendship between species can change lives.

I became completely absorbed in this book from the very first page and found myself unable to put it down. Charming, witty, heartwarming and wise, this remarkable debut novel will win your heart and have you rooting for all of the characters, including the cranky old octopus. Be prepared to fall in love with this book.

Remarkably Bright Creatures is available from Amazon.

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