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

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

This book was delightful, which is not a word I have typically used to describe my feelings about a book. I started this book in audio format but quickly realized that I was going to enjoy it much better as a hard copy, and I’m so glad I made the switch.

This book does not apologize or try to explain away why each character is so securely their own. In my view, there is not much character change that occurs during the story. Rather characters find themselves  refracting their identities in new or strengthened ways. All their core elements are still there, but the kaleidoscope has shifted. I love this idea: that in a new environment or a changed situation that our core character elements can show up in new, even more beautiful ways. I see this most in Linus but I think is true of all the characters.

Certainly the commentary on creating a more accepting society is poignant. I think it is a little more difficult to feel the hope portrayed in this book during these days of laws against the transgender community, especially children. But it doesn’t change the fact that we each have power and agency to exert on the behalf of others.