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

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted relaxing 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

 
The first book ever that made me cry, not only once, but multiple times. As cliché as it might sound, this book is so magical, whimsical, emotionally satisfying, and purely beautiful. Reading this honestly feels a lot like healing and giving your inner child the things that have been sorely missed since childhood. To be understood, to be forgiven, to be supported and encouraged, to be believed in, and to be heard and seen. 
This is a story about individuality and freedom of expression; acceptance and respect for individual differences; healing past traumas; finding a group of people that you belong; and fighting prejudice and discrimination. It is the perfect story if you ever have a really bad day and just want something comforting to read while wrapping yourself in a warm blanket. 
In terms of characters, this is a great representation of queer people in general. The two gay male characters (Linus and Arthur) are actually portrayed not only with nuance but also not involved with sex and sexual tension. You won’t get any sex scenes between the two gay characters, and I just love that. A lot of gay male relationships in romance stories nowadays have been so fetishized with explicit sex scenes that it’s honestly refreshing to see a gay relationship simply being so wholesome and heartwarming in their embrace and support of one another. 
And the kids in this book are so freaking precious! Love every single one of them. My favorites (because all parents have their favorites) have to be Chauncey and Sal. Their stories resonated with me deeply. It’s just so satisfying to see all of the characters slowly move past their traumas through their love for one another and get to have their happy endings in a world that they can all fight for. It is not a perfect world, but they can slowly change it, one step at a time. 
Overall, I had such a good time with this book. Would recommend this book to anybody who needs a little pick-me-up and some small comforts in their life. 
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