Some fantasy books are so charming and grounded, you almost forget they are fantasy. Sure, the kids in this magical foster-home are ooze monsters, gnomes, and stranger things still, but the undeniable relatability of their struggles pulls you in. That’s the point, I think. No matter where we’re from or what we look like on the outside, we all share a common humanity.
The House in the Cerulean Sea is a charming and challenging book with a timely message. Let’s talk about it.
The Basics:
Title: The House in the Cerulean Sea
Author: TJ Klune
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy, Cozy Fantasy
Published: Tor, 2020
Spoiler-Free Summary:
Linus is a kind but naive cog in the machine of a heartless beaurocracy in charge of registering and “caring for” (read: controlling) magical children. He does his best to make the right decisions for his clients, but until the story begins, he does not question the overall mission of his organization and his role in it. His seventeen years of fastidious service land him the opportunity of a lifetime: a month-long field assignment at a top-secret orphanage for the most rare and dangerous magical youths.
The assignment takes Linus to an idyllic island on the edge of nowhere, a real treat for a man who rarely leaves his home and mostly talks to his cat. The month is not all fun and games, however, as Linus struggles to relate to the strange new subculture he finds himself in. Mysteries slowly wrap themselves around the delightful interpersonal plot. What painful past led the soft-spoken but strong headmaster to his post? The orphanage has existed for years. Why has the organization suddenly taken an interest? Is the 6-year-old boy with a fascination with death really as dangerous as other seem to think?
Over time, the myriad of ecclectic and charming children wear down Linus’ defenses and radically shift his worldview. As is the way of these things, although Linus fights to save the children, they ultimately save him just as much or more.
Why You Will Love This Book:
This book, like its characters, wraps a gentle mantle of sincerity and charm over a steel center. It deals with difficult contemporary problems head-on without flinching in the tone of your favorite Christmas movie. It is beautifully written, with lilting, luxurious prose. It’s sweet. It’s challenging. It’s charming.
The House in the Cerulean Sea is well worth a visit. I enjoyed every minute I spent there.
Where Can You Learn More?
This was my first read by TK Klune, but it won’t be the last. Seriously, if nothing else, look at these gorgeous covers. (Having typed that, I hope they never ever change the website design from a huge splash banner with the covers all laid out beautifully side-by-side. Aw well. I ain’t changing it now.)
Happy reading, folks.
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