Arts & Entertainment
Bestselling Author is Headliner for One Book, One Elmhurst
Shelby Van Pelt, Author of Remarkably Bright Creatures, Speaks at Elmhurst University Nov. 20

Elmhurst, IL –Author Shelby Van Pelt will discuss her writing process, loss, hope, and the giant Pacific octopus at Elmhurst University on November 20. Van Pelt will be in conversation with Anne Swanson, Lead Advisory Specialist, and Director Mary Beth Harper, both of Elmhurst Public Library, bringing a unique perspective to the event. Van Pelt’s book, Remarkably Bright Creatures, is the 2024 selection for Elmhurst Public Library’s One Book, One Elmhurst program.
Due to the community’s tremendous response to the book and its author, the event has been upgraded to Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel, a larger venue to accommodate more attendees.
In Van Pelt’s debut novel, the lives of a widowed woman, a young man, and a giant Pacific octopus intertwine, with elements of mystery, humor, and poignancy, while illustrating the power of empathy and unlikely friendships.
One Book, One Elmhurst provides an opportunity for the entire community to read and engage with the same book title. This fall, EPL hosted discussions and programming around the book's topics. Book clubs, families, and workplaces were encouraged to use the title as a basis for discussion.
To register to attend this free event in-person or virtually, call (630) 279-8696 or visit elmlib.org/events. For more information, visit elmlib.org/OneBook.
Presented with Elmhurst University and the Friends of the Elmhurst Public Library.
Author Visit: Shelby Van Pelt
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 7 p.m.
Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel
Elmhurst University, 190 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst