Heike B. (caljane) - reviewed on 12/29/2021 + 5 more book reviews

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.

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