The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight - By the Lake Book Club

The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus, by Emma Knight, shortlisted for the 2025 Scotiabank Giller Prize, is a spellbinding debut about friendship, motherhood, first love and the secrets that shape us. Set against the moody backdrop of Edinburgh, the novel follows Pen, a Canadian student unraveling a family mystery while navigating independence and desire. With wit and emotional depth, Knight explores womanhood and the choices that bind us. By the Lake Book Club hosts six Tuesday-night events from February to December with top Canadian authors and Humber Polytechnics alumni. Each in-person event features readings, discussions, Q&A, book signings and ASL interpretation, while virtual sessions include live subtitles and audio access.