A review by sophiethebookishturtle
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective 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

5.0

“I am but paper. Brittle and thin. I am held up to the sun, and it shines right through me. I get written on, and I can never be used again. These scratches are a history. They’re a story. They tell things for others to read, but they only see the words, and not what the words are written upon. I am but paper, and though there are many like me, none are exactly the same. I am parched parchment. I have lines. I have holes. Get me wet, and I melt. Light me on fire, and I burn. Take me in hardened hands, and I crumple. I tear. I am but paper. Brittle and thin.”

What a ride... I did not expect this to have such an impact on me. The premise was interesting enough for me to read, but I thought that it would be the usual 3-4 star reads. This book was absolutely beautiful. From the moment I began reading, it had this whimsical feeling. With every word and action done by each character, I had this animated style of enactment in my brain. Or perhaps, a live-action enactment in the style of "A Series of Unfortunate Events". I would love for this book to be adapted into a film :)

My heart was in a constant state of awe as I read this book due to how pure and wonderfully written it was. The dialogue, the actions, and how the characters were portrayed were perfectly splendid and nuanced. I have categorized this as an adult book due to the main character's age, however I believe that this is suitable for all ages. The messages in this book are ones that all ages may relate to and carry as tools in their daily lives. They don't sound pretentious and were written in such a simple way for all ages to understand while also giving that sparkle, that impact. Each character, all of which had made permanent homes in my heart, were also given the right amount of attention and loving by the author. I understood why Linus did what he did, and I would have done the same. Those kids deserve good things, no matter their differences or qualities.

This book is different from what I would usually read. I mostly look for action, thrill, and mystery. Despite my preferences, I still absolutely loved this. I found no faults in this book and would be glad to say that it is now one of my favorites of all time. TJ Klune, I'll be looking out for your other novels ;)

In one sentence: A comforting and feel-good book to read with valuable lessons to carry for life.

Rating: 5 stars, chef's kiss

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