Remarkably Bright Creatures Book Club Questions + Printable PDF
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If your book club is reading Remarkably Bright Creatures, you’re in for a thoughtful, quirky, and surprisingly emotional discussion – complete with a brilliant Pacific octopus. These Remarkably Bright Creatures book club questions are designed to spark meaningful conversation about connection, grief, forgiveness, and what it means to be seen, even by a cephalopod.
Key Takeaways: Remarkably Bright Creatures Book Club Questions
What It’s About
Tova Sullivan cleans an aquarium late at night. Marcellus, the resident octopus, watches her with intelligence and secrets. After the death of her son years ago and the recent loss of her husband, Tova finds herself drifting through her days, until unexpected connections with a young man named Cameron and the octopus himself begin to reveal long-buried truths.
Written with tenderness and quiet wit, Remarkably Bright Creatures is a story of loss, healing, unlikely friendships, and the mysterious way lives can intertwine.
Remarkably Bright Creatures was also a Read With Jenna book club pick, which helped launch this quiet debut into well-deserved popularity. You can explore more Read With Jenna book selections here.
Themes & Topics To Discuss
This novel offers rich layers to explore in any book club discussion—here are just a few of the key themes you might want to dive into:
- Grief and healing – How different characters deal with loss in their own quiet ways.
- Unlikely friendships – What does it say about human (and animal) connection?
- Loneliness and belonging – The ways people hide in plain sight.
- The impact of secrets – How much should people share – or protect?
- The natural world – What role does the setting (aquarium, ocean) play in the emotional tone of the story?
- Second chances – Are all the characters offered one? Do they take it?
Remarkably Bright Creatures Book Club Questions
- What was your initial impression of the book immediately after you were first introduced to Marcellus the octopus?
- What emotions did Marcellus inspire in you?
- After reading Marcellus’s thoughts throughout the book, did your own views on animals in captivity change in any way?
- The book explores themes of self-discovery and personal growth. How do you see these themes manifesting in the lives of the main characters?
- The author tackles themes of resilience and overcoming adversity. Which character’s journey resonated with you the most, and why?
- Tova and Marcellus shared a remarkable friendship. What qualities do you think that each saw in the other that are now binding them together?
- The settings of the book play a vital part in the story. How did the author’s description of the setting contribute to the overall atmosphere or mood of the book?
- How do you think the story would be affected if it took place in a different place?
- Cameron was portrayed as somewhat of a sluggish character with a lack of maturity. How would you describe him?
- What were your feelings when Tova decided that she was going to sell her house, leave her community and friends, and move away to the retirement village where she knew no one?
- About halfway through the book, Marcellus observes that the “cleaning lady” walks like Cameron. Did you see what was coming at that point regarding the true relationship between Tova and Cameron?
- Tova thinks of herself as completely “over the hill” and is worried that she will become a burden to her friends if she continues to live alone. Did you see Tova as elderly and incapable? Or strong and vital?
- Did you find the ending and the relationship that was revealed between Tova and Cameron to be a plausible ending?
- Would this book make a good movie adaptation?
- What did you like most about the book?
- What did you like least about the book?
- Did any character in the book remind you of someone you know?
- Describe this book in 5 words or fewer.
- As you were reading the book, did you wonder whether octopuses are remarkably bright creatures? And if so, did you research this to get the facts?
- What was the overall strongest emotion that this book inspired in you?
- If the book continued after the current ending, what do you think would be happening with Tova and Cameron one year later?
- If you could ask the author, Shelby Van Pelt, one question about Remarkably Bright Creatures, what would it be?
Frequently Asked Questions About Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
What genre is Remarkably Bright Creatures?
It blends contemporary fiction, light mystery, and magical realism.
Is Remarkably Bright Creatures a good book club pick?
Yes – its unusual structure, lovable characters, and layered themes make it great for discussion.
Is the octopus narrator based on a real animal?
Marcellus is fictional, but the author was inspired by research into real octopus behavior, including their intelligence and personalities.
Remarkably Bright Creatures Book Club Questions Printable PDF
Looking for more book club help? Don’t miss The Ultimate Guide to Book Clubs for discussion tips, hosting ideas, and more great reads.
Book Pairing Suggestions
If your book club enjoyed Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt, you might love one of these next. Each explores similar themes – grief, healing, unexpected friendships, or the quiet beauty of second chances – with its own unique twist.
- The Story of Arthur Truluv by Elizabeth Berg
A heartwarming story about unlikely connections and how strangers can become family, perfect for fans of emotional, character-driven tales. - A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
If you loved Marcellus the octopus, you’ll appreciate another curmudgeon-with-a-heart and the unexpected friendships that change his life. - The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy by Rachel Joyce
Quiet, poignant, and introspective – this book complements Van Pelt’s themes of hidden pain and the redemptive power of kindness. - The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune
A quirky, whimsical story filled with heart and found-family vibes—this one’s a great pick if your group enjoyed the emotional tone and gentle humor of Remarkably Bright Creatures.
Conclusion: Remarkably Bright Creatures Discussion Questions
Remarkably Bright Creatures might seem quiet on the surface, but dive beneath, and it’s filled with emotional depth, mystery, and hard-won hope. Whether your club loved it for Marcellus, the healing arcs, or the writing style, we hope these questions help you explore what made it truly unforgettable.
