September Book Selection: Remarkably Bright Creatures

Our September Book: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
This is one of my very favorite books. I read this a few years ago. This time I will listen to the book via audiobook.

About the Book:
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.

Shelby Van Pelt’s debut novel is a gentle reminder that sometimes taking a hard look at the past can help uncover a future that once felt impossible. And this is being made into a Netflix movie for 2026 starring Sally Fields.

Genre: Cozy Mystery/Animals
Publication Date: May 3, 2022
Pages: 268

How To Get a Copy:
While you can certainly get your own copy wherever you choose, I am also requesting this book from the Grayslake Library. Once they have secured copies, I’ll update this post.

To obtain the book (once it’s available),

• Go to Grayslake Library, 100 Library Lane, Grayslake, IL.
• Bring your library card (from any library) and go to the checkout area.
• Tell them you are there to pick up a book for Lit Happens Book Club.
• They will register your card with Grayslake if your library is not part of their consortium and they will check out the book to you.
• There will only be limited copies available, so do not wait until the last minute.

Note: When attending an event at a restaurant, please make sure to at least order a drink. But even better, come for dinner!

Suggestions for Future Reads Needed:
Also, please bring suggestions for future book club reads. We will discuss and vote at this event!