📘 What an Octopus 🐙 Taught Us About Healing and Hope

Hey everyone 🙂 

This week we are focusing on “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. This is one of my favourites reads this year — a heartwarming and poignant novel centered on Tova Sullivan, a widowed woman, who works the night shift at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. Struggling with the loss of her son, Erik, many years ago, Tova finds an unlikely companion in Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus known for his intelligence and escape-artist antics. Through the novel’s alternating perspectives—Tova, Marcellus, and others—the story becomes one of healing, self-discovery, and the unexpected ways in which lives can intersect.

This book gently reminds us that connection can come in the most unexpected forms, and that it's never too late to heal from loss. Tova’s journey of grief, accompanied by Marcellus’ wisdom, will inspire you to reflect on your own losses and how you navigate them. The story subtly nudges you toward realizing that even in solitude, you are never truly alone.

Principle #1: Healing Happens in Unlikely Places

Healing is often not linear, and it can come in forms you least expect. Tova’s connection with an octopus at the aquarium helps her confront unresolved grief. Sometimes the road to healing begins with something as small as an unexpected friendship or a simple routine.

Principle #2: Life is About Second Chances

Tova's story is about realizing it’s never too late to rediscover joy or seek out the things you've long buried. Whether it's repairing relationships or learning to trust again, the message here is that second chances often come when we least expect them.

Principle #3: Wisdom Can Come From Unlikely Sources

Marcellus, the octopus, represents wisdom and perspective. He silently observes human lives, offering insight that transcends species. This reminds us to look outside conventional sources of wisdom, be it nature, animals, or simple acts of observation.

1. “Why can humans not use their millions of words to simply tell one another what they desire?”

2. “Secrets are everywhere. Some humans are crammed full of them. How do they not explode? It seems to be a hallmark of the human species: abysmal communication skills.”

3. “You can't fix someone who is determined to stay broken.”

1. Reach Out, Even When It’s Hard: Don’t wait for the perfect moment to reconnect with people. Just like Tova learns to lean on others, reaching out for connection can open unexpected doors.

2. Be Open to Unlikely Friendships: Embrace unexpected relationships—be it a person, a pet, or even an environment. These connections can profoundly change your perspective.

3. Let Go of the Need for Closure: As Tova discovers, life may not give you all the answers, but you can still move forward. Focus on the present instead of waiting for perfect closure.

Take a moment this week to reach out to someone you’ve lost touch with or who has made an impact on you. Whether it’s sending a message or scheduling a call, reconnect with a relationship you’ve neglected. Notice how it changes your sense of connection and belonging.

If you could receive advice or wisdom from an unlikely source (like Marcellus the octopus), what would you ask? Think about the areas in your life where you're seeking clarity, whether it’s about relationships, personal growth, or overcoming a challenge. What do you think this unconventional advisor would tell you about how you're living your life, and what changes or reflections would it encourage you to make?

We hope you enjoyed learning more about Remarkably Bright Creatures and importance of addressing grief and looking for support 🙏. We don’t all have an octopus to rely on, but if your’e in need, please use this as your reminder to find support 🐙.

As always, if you have any feedback or questions, just hit reply.

A Book a Week Team

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