Remarkably Bright Creatures is the 2026 book for Salem Reads: One Book, One Community!

Remarkably Bright Creatures, the runaway best-seller by author Shelby Van Pelt, is the book selection of the 2026 Salem Reads: One Book, One Community project in February 2026. The Salem Public Library Foundation, sponsors of Salem Reads, and the Salem Public Library are thrilled to announce that the signature event in 2026 will be a free, public appearance by author Shelby Van Pelt on the evening of Thursday, February 19.

Additional events and activities will also celebrate and explore the themes of Van Pelt's heart-warming story of a unique friendship between an aging night custodian and a restless octopus who connect during their hours spent in a coastal aquarium.

Remarkably Bright Creatures is available to read or listen to in preparation for Salem Reads in February 2026. Search the library catalog to learn about current availability.

Print copies in English and Spanish, as well as English audiobook on CD are available to borrow from the library. In addition, eBooks and eAudiobooks in English and Spanish are available to download and enjoy on the CloudLibrary and Libby apps.

Salem Reads is a community-wide reading project that invites the people of Salem to come together in person or virtually through reading, discussion, and programs based on the themes of a common book. The Salem Public Library Foundation funds this effort to foster community and invite people of diverse ages, backgrounds, and viewpoints to come together to discuss compelling topics.