elthechameleon 's review for:

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

4.75

adventurous funny hopeful inspiring 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: Complicated

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TJ Klune has an eye for bridging magic and accuracy. The monotony of Linus's life is depicted so well that it would be at home in an episode of "The Office." The island and its inhabitants, on the other hand, are vibrant. The descriptions are resplendent, making each scene easy to imagine as one slips into the pages. The camaraderie and love displayed amongst the characters is self-aware and camp, always managing to avoid veering into trite. Exquisite. 

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Outing

There is a lot of bigotry in this book. Since the book deals with magical creatures, one can view the hatred as metaphors for racism, xenophobia, or homophobia. I will say that the joy and warmth in this book feels expansive enough to provide safe harbor from the outside hatred. The book is like meeting a warm, accepting family and friend group that anyone would be lucky to have. Pure joy ahead.