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A review by theespressoedition
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Since reading this book, I have had multiple conversations with other readers, trying to comprehend my own thoughts about the story.
First and foremost: what age range is this book intended for? As I was reading the book, I felt as if I was reading middle-grade. The writing is quite light and juvenile (and I don't mean this in a negative way, just that it felt geared toward a younger audience). However, there were sexual references and heavier themes thrown in that felt more like something I'd find in YA. In fact, I was under the impression prior to reading that the book was, in fact, a YA novel. But of course, we have to take into account the fact that the protagonist is in his late 30s or early 40s (I don't know if his age is ever mentioned, but the love interest's is, and he's in his 40s). So, if we go by those standards, the book is adult. All of this kind of messed with my mind?!
If we go by the standards that this is an adult novel, it is good but not great. The maturity level is quite low and the decisions the protagonist makes feel a bit rash and unnecessary. I didn't find him to be particularly likable.
The children, however, were wonderful. I loved each of their personalities and hilarious quirks. I also appreciated the way the book begged us to think more about accepting people and standing up for those who are part of minorities or who aren't treated with kindness and respect. It definitely spoke to that very well.
In all, I enjoyed the book but I didn't love it. I felt a bit confused by the age thing and maturity level but I also really liked the representation and message. It was a solid like.
First and foremost: what age range is this book intended for? As I was reading the book, I felt as if I was reading middle-grade. The writing is quite light and juvenile (and I don't mean this in a negative way, just that it felt geared toward a younger audience). However, there were sexual references and heavier themes thrown in that felt more like something I'd find in YA. In fact, I was under the impression prior to reading that the book was, in fact, a YA novel. But of course, we have to take into account the fact that the protagonist is in his late 30s or early 40s (I don't know if his age is ever mentioned, but the love interest's is, and he's in his 40s). So, if we go by those standards, the book is adult. All of this kind of messed with my mind?!
If we go by the standards that this is an adult novel, it is good but not great. The maturity level is quite low and the decisions the protagonist makes feel a bit rash and unnecessary. I didn't find him to be particularly likable.
The children, however, were wonderful. I loved each of their personalities and hilarious quirks. I also appreciated the way the book begged us to think more about accepting people and standing up for those who are part of minorities or who aren't treated with kindness and respect. It definitely spoke to that very well.
In all, I enjoyed the book but I didn't love it. I felt a bit confused by the age thing and maturity level but I also really liked the representation and message. It was a solid like.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body shaming, Abandonment, Child abuse, and Bullying
Moderate: Fatphobia
Minor: Hate crime