Remarkably Bright Creatures: A novel (2022) by Shelby Van Pelt
This started out as more of a “self-care” read.
This book was a fun and feel-good story that exemplifies both the authentic relationships between man and animal via neuroception and attunement, but also a story in healing from the voids left by grief and loss. When we lose someone close to us, or even someone valuable to our developmental trajectory, we can often feel a bit disconnected or isolated (as reviewed in Megan Devine’s book) or sometimes feel like we’ve lost a piece of ourselves. We need connection and community, and often find animals to be a great way to supplement that (re: Polyvagal Theory). Animals are not mired down by social/cultural mores, nor other human emotional experiences, and are able to be present and offer unconditional connection and affection.
How did I hear about this book: both a friend and a client recommended it (so I definitely had to read it!)
Would I recommend to colleagues: Sure, I think it’s a sweet and fun read
Would I recommend to clients: Yes, it’s a sweet story and could be a nice way to validate anyone in their own experiences of grief and loss by resonating with the characters of the book and how they may have found comfort from others (from animals just as much as humans).
How do I apply this content to my work: I mean I can relate most human/mammalian experience to Polyvagal Theory, so there’s that. But it can also be a nice story for someone healing from grief and loss to witness and resonate with the experience of feeling a little lost, stuck, alienated/isolated, and/or like you have a void you are trying to fill. And/or for someone who just really loves animals and values the human-animal relationship.
Disclaimers: These reviews are based on my own personal experience reading these books and do not reflect on the book’s author or publisher. I have not received any commissions or other incentives to promote my reviews. My reviews express my own unbiased opinions.
