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

emotional hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I’m so mad at myself for not reading this sooner. From the moment Linus Baker stepped foot into Arthur’s world, I was utterly enchanted. His journey to finding a family and a home was opposed by his 17 year long career and staunch following of the Rules and Regulations but it didn’t take long for the residents of the Marsyas Orphanage to worm their way into his heart. Honestly, he never stood a chance. I didn’t either. By the time the story concluded, I was legitimately kicking my feet with glee. 

The adults of the world are so lovely but the children made my heart soar. They’re all so distinct- a lot of authors struggle to flesh out their underage characters- and individually special. I was delighted by every foul threat from Lucy and Talia just as much as I enjoyed their respective passions for music and gardening. Theodore challenged everything I have believed about family in the real world. Phee and Chauncey rounded out the crew, showing opposite desires entirely yet desiring their family most of all. And sweet Sal. I think Linus needed him the most. He needed a reminder of how the system can fail and how he as an individual can make an extraordinary difference to a child in need. 

I cannot recommend this book to everyone enough, but I especially recommend it to anybody who has ever felt stuck in their own life, longing for more. 
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