The writing in this book is beautiful and eye-catching. It is very hard to make me laugh out loud with a book but this one got me with its clever writing quite a few times. The kids are fun and memorable; I really enjoyed their crazy antics. Unfortunately I was letdown by Linus and Arthur. I didn't feel the chemistry between them. Their interactions that weren't focused on the kids were dull, such as talking about philosophy by only saying names of philosophers without actually elaborating on their idea. I was very excited for the queer romance between them, it was the reason I first picked up the book, so I was disappointed that they didn't catch my attention like I'd hoped.
All in all, a cozy read, even if the two main leads didn't strike home for me.
Linus, case worker for the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth, leads a boring, depressing, friend- and joyless life. He is a stickler for rules and stuffy and without any self esteem. He is the most boring creature in the world and thus the first 10 to 15 percent of the book are somewhat - boring. Luckily not boring enough to put it away, and as soon as Linus hits the island a story with colorful characters begins, even if the author is swinging the moralistic cudgel a bit strongly.
I could have done with a few less sermons on humanity and a more likeable Linus, but I absolutely adored the children and their quirky characters. And I usually don't care for children in adult books at all!
I was introduced to T.J. Klune as an author through gay romance novels, thus expected one here. It is not. While there is some romance blooming a tiny little bit, and two men are involved, this is a beautifully told story about six special need children and their acceptance, and the story about a stuffy, lifeless adult who finds joy in life through these children.
4.5 stars rounded up for a memorable story and characters.
The House in the Cerulean Sea did not disappoint. Readers have been raving about this book and I definitely see why. Cerulean Sea is a beautiful story about a middle age man, Linus Baker who is a case worker in the department of magical youth. His job is to go to âorphanagesâ to check on the magical children for their well being. Linus has been doing the same job for 17 years and is treated very poorly. He doesn't care, he really only cares about the children and as a result the only thing personal in his personal life is a cat. That is until Very Upper Management calls him in for a special, secret assignment. Linus Baker's life changes forever. This story has a relevant message of love and acceptance, people fear what they don't know, so we need to educate. It's a beautiful story.
The writing in this book is beautiful and eye-catching. It is very hard to make me laugh out loud with a book but this one got me with its clever writing quite a few times. The kids are fun and memorable; I really enjoyed their crazy antics. Unfortunately I was letdown by Linus and Arthur. I didn't feel the chemistry between them. Their interactions that weren't focused on the kids were dull, such as talking about philosophy by only saying names of philosophers without actually elaborating on their idea. I was very excited for the queer romance between them, it was the reason I first picked up the book, so I was disappointed that they didn't catch my attention like I'd hoped.
All in all, a cozy read, even if the two main leads didn't strike home for me.
This felt like Harry Potter meets Good Omens in all the best ways. It was a true delight!
I adore this book. It's the most life-affirming story with acceptance first and foremost - accept yourself for who you are, see others for who they really are and accept them, too. Change begins at home.
I laughed, cried, and smiled my way through Cerulean. The humor is dry, the setting is lovely, and the characters are memorable and charming. I will remember them always.
Now I have to find more of Mr. Klune's work!
