A review by madelinemaesmith
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

5.0

All the stars!!

5⭐️/5

I thought this book was going to lean more literary fiction, but when it wound up being a contemporary, emotional (and, dare I say, lighthearted despite some of the heavy subject-matter?) I was pleasantly surprised.

This book explores themes like grief, loss, aging, death, abandonment, and yet it does so in a way that feels like a warm hug, as if someone is whispering “you’re not alone” the whole way through. It’s a little fantastical, but not too much, and the multiple POV really worked for me.

The book becomes a little predictable at times, but if you’re in the mood for a feel-good story with little to no loose ends, then you may want to pick this up (or save it for a rainy day).

Read if:
1. You’ve ever wondered if a sassy octopus might be your spirit animal
2. You loved A Man Called One (but not as dark), The Guncle, or The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot
3. You are craving a book with unlikely friendships, wholesome characters, and a delightful writing style
4. You are looking for your next audiobook! Highly recommend!
5. You need a book to recommend to your mom and/or coworkers