#Chauncey baker-parnassus

[destialpal]

I need everyone to understand how important Chauncey Baker-Parnassus is to me

[adhdbisexualramblings]

Chauncey: Oh, no, we’re going to jail!

Phee: Luci’s going to jail. I’m saying I was kidnapped.

Chauncey: Hey, that’s a good plan. You and I were kidnapped.

Luci: If I’m goin’ to jail we’re all goin’ to jail!

[acebedrawing]

The Baker-Parnassus family. In Whimsy We Trust🌊

Old doodles from when I first read House in the cerulean sea and recent digital pieces. I LOVE THIS FAMILY 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[leticiahorta]

Recently I’ve read the house in the cerulean sea and I loved it SO much!!! I couldn't stop thinking about them so I HAD to make a least a sketch of these lovely characters who have my entire heart

[aglioeoliocat]

a little family portrait

this book has altered my brain chemistry, made my life better, my days brighter and made me very happy and now I can't stop thinking about it

[house-in-the-cerulean-sea]

Chauncey at the beach 🧡

@dontuwishuwerehere

[tiziamezzosangue1]

I just desperately need an high school AU of the house in the cerulean sea, where there are Arthur, Linus, Zoe and Helen as teenage and they all like volunteer in the orphanage or something like that, so they find the children. And I want a LinXArthur slowburn, whit a deeper analysis of Linus character and his youth (obviously Arthur’s too, but I haven’t seen a fanfic about Linus’ childhood). I want to see a deeper relationship between Zoe and Helen.

I don’t think I am asking for too much 😭.

[vivianna06]

My favorite quote from The House in The Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

[beetlegoose01]

hey to those who love fantasy and queer stories might I suggest house in the cerulean sea? it's one of my favorite books and I highly recommend 🥰⛱️🏖🧚‍♀️

I'm so tempted to write fics about it

[myths-tournaments]

Found Family Tournament [Round 1 - Poll 10/64]

(list of characters under the cut)

THE HOUSE IN THE CERULEAN SEA

Arthur Parnassus Linus Baker Zoe Chapelwhite Theodore Sal Lucy Phee Talia Chauncey

THE LAND BEFORE TIME

Littlefoot Cera Ducky Petri Spike

[strawberrycamel]

HI IM GOING TO EXPLODE /POSITIVE

I am going to recommend a book. a beautiful heartwarming desk-slammingly good book.

It's called The House in the Cerulean Sea and it's written by TJ Klune.

To summarize it without giving away big plot points, it is a beautiful story about a 40 year old social worker working for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth (DICOMY) visiting a special orphanage for a month long investigation.

This orphanage houses a handful of non-human children considered 'dangerous'- for example, there is a gnome who loves gardening and threatening people with her shovel, a kid made of goo who wants to be a bellhop, and also the son of the capital D devil. There's also the mysterious Mr. Arthur Parnassus, the master of the orphanage, which the main character, Mr. Linus Baker, has been specifically instructed to share anything he learns about the man in his weekly reports. By his final report, Linus must make a recommendation based on his experience at the orphanage, either to allow it to keep running or to shut it down for the safety of the children.

Man, man, I don't seek out slow burn stuff, but god the slow burn in this story is so so good. And the way that Linus slowly starts to love each and every one of the children, his initial fear of them melting away little by little is so fucking good.

I've been on a bit of a kick with fictional found family stuff lately, and this? Scratches the itch perfectly.

And Sal, my little boy, my little woofer, he tries so hard despite his anxiety and loves to write. He stands up for his family. He is so brave. I hug him. He is mine. My book blorbo. My blorbko.

Anyway, back to Totally Professional Review, I love how the fonts change to indicate printed writing. It's such a small thing but it makes me happy. And Lucy, a very dramatic little guy who adores old records. THEODORE MY BELOVED. What a guy. What a beloved lil guy who treasures buttons and other mundane things like they're made of gold. Talia and her beautiful garden, her beard so soft and well taken care of. Phee and her love of nature. Chauncey is gonna be the best bellhop ever, I believe in him. How could such a sweet boy be anything else?

That concludes my book rec. I will now explode in real life.

[semper-legens]

34. The House in the Cerulean Sea, by TJ Klune

Owned: No, library Page count: 398 My summary: Linus Baker is a case worker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, assigned to orphanages to see that magical children are being properly cared for. Proper and by-the-book, he is assigned to a ‘problem’ orphanage on a remote island - an orphanage that hosts a female gnome, a wyvern, a forest sprite, a blob boy, a werewolf, and the literal antichrist. Linus is expecting the worst. But with every day that passes, Linus finds himself caring more and more for the odd family on the island, headed by mild-mannered Arthur Parnassus and Zoe the island sprite. And as time goes by, Linus begins to wonder if he has a life outside of paperwork... My rating: 4/5 My commentary:

This book comes very well-recommended. And it's entirely up my street. I mean, please, a book about a home full of magical children seen as strange by the world and facing a lot of prejudice, and the case worker who falls in love with them and their lives? That's got me written all over it. And it was a fun book! Very charming, very endearing. The kids were all delightful, the main character was interesting, and I loved the world this was set in. More under the cut!

Our protagonist is Linus Baker, a by-the-book case worker for the government's branch dealing with magical youth. He goes into orphanages, ensures everything's running as it should, then leaves. He doesn't have dreams or ambitions, he's just a drone. But on going to the island, he finds his humanity, and allows himself to desire. In general I like protagonists in this kind of fiction that aren't Hot Young Singles, so seeing this relatively mediocre middle-aged man was actually really interesting! And his romance with Arthur, the head of the orphanage, was sweet. They play very well off each other, you really get a sense for how deeply compatible these two men are. The kids are also a delight. Fundamentally they're all just weird kids with magic powers who don't much trust outsiders - my favourite was Chauncey, a blob-boy who really wants to be a bellhop. Why? Saw it in a movie once and became obsessed with the notion. Which is exactly how little kid special interests work.

Not only is the worldbuilding here interesting, it's also revealed in small doses or at natural times, such as Linus going over the Rules and Regulations or reading case files. Magical beings are a Thing in this world, and are an oppressed minority, with children being forced into orphanages or schools and often abused by their caretakers. The signalling is pretty clear - the See Something, Say Something posters mentioned to be all over the place are so reminiscent of the posters with the exact same slogan that are all over train stations targeting immigrants. But magical beings aren't exactly one metaphor. Arthur and Linus' status as gay men are also the metaphor, it's allegorically representing a broad spectrum of marginalised communities.

The biggest gripe I had with this book was that the stakes didn't feel all that high. The kids are shown to be capable, threats are dealt with reasonably quickly, and people warm up to the kids rapidly on meeting them. A few decide to hate them for what they are, but they're portrayed more as one-note bigots than anything else. I get the wider point the book was trying to make about prejudice and systemic inequality, and it's admittedly effective in showing how individuals are often powerless in the face of systemic prejudice, and how even systems that seem to be working well from an outside perspective can be rotten to the core. It's just simplistic in its worldview, which isn't by necessity that bad a thing, but I was hoping for a little more nuance.

Next up...come on, grab your friends.

[pagebypagereviews]

In TJ Klune's enchanting novel, "The House in the Celurean Sea," readers are transported to a vividly imagined world where the extraordinary is cloaked in the guise of the mundane. It's here, amid the tranquil hue of a boundless ocean, that we encounter Linus Baker—a by-the-book caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. Linus's world is one of order and routine, but it’s upended when a highly classified assignment whisks him away to an island orphanage where the residents are anything but ordinary. Charged with determining the fate of six potentially dangerous children, Linus must confront not only the unknown but also the biases deeply ingrained within himself. Klune's narrative is a tender exploration of love, acceptance, and the courage to challenge one's own preconceptions. Amidst the backdrop of society's fear of that which is different, "The House in the Cerulean Sea" serves as a poignant reminder of the power of empathy and inclusivity. With whimsical prose, Klune crafts a tale that tackles the complexities of identity and the importance of finding one's place in the world. As much a mirror to our own societal struggles as it is a beacon of hope, this novel invites readers to question the fine line between protection and oppression, weaving a story that is as thought-provoking as it is heartwarming. Plot The House in the Cerulean Sea follows Linus Baker, a meticulous and by-the-book case worker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youths (DICOMY), whose life is steeped in routine. The plot thickens when Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management and given a classified assignment to investigate Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous magical children reside, along with their enigmatic caretaker, Arthur Parnassus. Linus's journey is marked by his rigorous observations, reports, and the adherence to rules that govern the magical world. However, the heart of the plot emerges from the transformative interactions he has with each child and Arthur, challenging his preconceptions and bureaucratic detachment. As he delves deeper into the idiosyncrasies of the orphanage set against the backdrop of the cerulean sea, he is faced with moral dilemmas that question the strict policies of DICOMY and his own understanding of what it means to be a family. The plot examines themes of acceptance, found family, and the defiance of oppressive systems through the microcosm of this unique orphanage. Characters Each character in The House in the Cerulean Sea is meticulously crafted with distinct personalities and backstories that add depth to the novel. Linus Baker, the protagonist, is initially portrayed as somewhat timid and a stickler for rules but undergoes significant character development as he challenges his own beliefs. Arthur Parnassus serves as a counternarrative to Linus—warm, welcoming, and fervently protective of his charges, indicative of the book's themes of advocacy and guardianship. The children are arguably the most vibrant characters: Lucy, the son of the Devil, who struggles with the weight of expectations and prophecies; Talia, a garden gnome with a penchant for digging and a fierce loyalty; Chauncey, an enigmatic creature with dreams of becoming a bellhop; Sal, a shy were-Pomeranian with a traumatic past; Phee, a spritely forest sprite with an affinity for nature; and Theodore, a wyvern with a treasure hoard. Each child reflects different facets of the experience of growing up different and misunderstood, fuelling the narrative's emotional core. Writing Style TJ Klune's writing style in The House in the Covering Sea is characterized by its warm, conversational tone, which immediately draws the reader into the story. The prose is often infused with wit and humor, providing levity to the narrative even when addressing complex issues like prejudice and conformity. Klune effectively balances lighthearted moments with emotional depth, crafting beautifully poignant scenes that resonate with readers on a profound level.

Through careful word choice and detailed descriptions, the environment and characters come alive. The narrative voice is particularly adept at transitioning from the internal monologue of Linus, riddled with self-doubt and regimental thoughts, to the vivid, multi-sensory experiences that punctuate his journey. The use of selective repetition and thematic motifs reinforces the novel's underlying messages, while the dialogue is crafted to reveal the individual voices and growth of the characters. Setting The setting of The House in the Cerulean Sea is integral to the story's ambiance and thematic development. Marsyas Island Orphanage, though shrouded in mystery at the outset, is eventually depicted as a place of sanctuary, set apart from a world that oftentimes fears and marginalizes magical beings. The island itself becomes a nurturing, almost ethereal space where each child is free to exist without the threat of societal judgment, contrasting sharply with the grey and unyielding landscapes inherent to the bureaucracies of DICOMY and society at large. Klune meticulously describes the orphanage's surroundings: the quaint cottage, the verdant gardens, and of course, the ever-present, tranquil cerulean sea which gives the setting its fantastical and dreamlike quality. This juxtaposition not only serves to reflect Linus's inner transformation but also underscores the broader narrative conflicts between conformity and individuality, safety, and freedom. Unique Aspects The House in the Cerulean Sea holds unique appeal through its combination of fantastical elements with contemporary societal issues. One such aspect is the way Klune weaves social commentary into the fabric of the story, tackling discrimination, bureaucracy, and the fear of the 'other' in ways that mirror our reality. Moreover, the novel's approach to portraying an unconventional family unit among the children and their caretaker challenges traditional familial norms, offering an inclusive and heartfelt representation of love and acceptance. Another notable feature is the twist on the concept of prophecy and destiny—particularly regarding Lucy's character—where the narrative subverts expectations by allowing characters to define their own path regardless of foretold futures. Additionally, the sheer diversity of magical beings in the story, from the familiar to the wholly original, showcases Klune's creativity and adds to the rich tapestry of the fantasy genre. Lastly, the book's central themes of personal growth and the celebration of difference resonate on a universal level, making The House in the Cerulean Sea a compelling read for a wide array of audiences seeking both escape and reflection. Similar to The House in the Cerulean Sea Certainly! Below is an example of how you could use HTML to present a thorough analysis of the pros and cons of "The House in the Cerulean Sea" with a focus on the impact on the user experience. Each section (pro or con) is formatted with a table having solid 1px black borders. ```html Analysis of The House in the Cerulean Sea table width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; th, td border: 1px solid black; padding: 8px; text-align: left; .pros background-color: #e8f5e9; .cons background-color: #ffebee; h2 text-align: center; Pros of The House in the Cerulean Sea Aspect Impact on User Experience Character Development The well-developed and diverse characters in the story provide readers with relatable and engaging personas to connect with, enhancing the overall emotional investment in the narrative. Unique World-building The imaginative setting of the book captures the reader's curiosity and provides a sense of escapism, which is a delightful experience for those who enjoy fantasy elements in literature. Positive Messaging Themes of acceptance, love, and understanding resonate with readers and can have a profoundly positive impact, especially for those seeking uplifting content. Cons of The House in the Cerulean Sea

Aspect Impact on User Experience Predictability Some readers may find the plot too predictable, which could potentially diminish the sense of suspense and reduce the overall excitement of the reading experience. Pace of Story Those who prefer fast-paced plots might consider the pace to be slow at times, possibly resulting in a less engaging experience for some readers. Limited World Exploration While the world-building is unique, some readers may desire a deeper exploration of the settings and lore, leading to a feeling of unfulfilled potential in the universe created. ``` This code describes a structured way to present the different aspects of the book that are either advantageous (pros) or disadvantageous (cons) to the reader's experience, using HTML tables with clear styling to make each section stand out. Evaluating the Genre and Themes When considering the purchase of "The House in the Cerulean Sea," it's essential to understand the genre and themes of the book to ensure it aligns with personal reading preferences. This novel, penned by TJ Klune, is a fantasy novel with strong elements of whimsy, heartwarming character relationships, and LGBTQ+ representation. The central themes include acceptance, found family, and the defiance of bureaucracy when it comes to matters of the heart. Readers with a penchant for narratives that blend fantastical elements with profound emotional journeys will find this book particularly engaging. Understanding the Author's Narrative Style TJ Klune is known for his emotive and humorous writing style, making the reading experience both engaging and thought-provoking. Prospective readers should consider sampling Klune's writing to determine if his style resonates with them. Look for excerpts or previews available online. One's appreciation for Klune's narrative approach — characterized by rich descriptions, snappy dialogue, and the portrayal of poignant interpersonal dynamics — will significantly enhance the enjoyment of "The House in the Cerulean Sea." Book Editions and Formats Consider the available editions and formats of the book. "The House in the Cerulean Sea" is offered in hardcover, paperback, e-book, and audiobook versions. Hardcover editions may be the ideal choice for collectors or those preferring durability. Paperback options often provide a balance between cost and portability. For tech-savvy readers or those with limited storage space, the e-book version might be preferable, with the added convenience of being accessible on various devices. The audiobook, narrated by Daniel Henning, offers an immersive alternative, particularly for those who enjoy listening to stories while multitasking or on the go. Reading Level and Content Appropriateness Although "The House in the Cerulean Sea" can be categorized as an adult fantasy novel due to its complex themes, it is also accessible to younger audiences, with a reading level that is not prohibitive. The content is gentle and appropriate for mature teens and up, making it an excellent choice for crossover readers. It's pivotal to assess whether the reading level and content meet the suitability for either personal enjoyment or gifting purposes. Online Reviews and Community Feedback Prospective buyers should look into the community feedback and critical reviews of "The House in the Cerulean Sea" to inform their purchase decision. The book has received widespread acclaim, but like all literature, individual reactions vary. Reading reviews on platforms such as Goodreads, Amazon, and literary blogs can provide a well-rounded picture of the book's impact and reception. Paying attention to recurring comments in reviews, whether positive or negative, can also indicate aspects of the story that might resonate with or deter the potential reader. Price Comparisons and Availability It's practical to compare prices across various retailers to find the best deal for "The House in the Cerulean Sea." Prices may fluctuate between bookstores, online retailers, and digital marketplaces.

Additionally, investigate the availability – popular books can sometimes go out of stock, particularly in physical stores. If you prefer to shop locally, checking the stock of nearby stores online, or placing an order in advance, is beneficial. For budget-conscious readers, consider looking for sales, used books, or library loans as cost-effective alternatives. Supporting Independent Bookstores For those passionate about supporting local businesses, consider purchasing "The House in the Cerulean Sea" from an independent bookstore. Many independent bookstores have options to order books if they're not readily available in-store. Furthermore, purchasing from these stores often ensures that more money is injected into the local economy and the literary community, contributing to the survival and success of these cultural havens. FAQ for The House in the Cerulean Sea What is The House in the Cerulean Sea about? The House in the Cerulean Sea is a contemporary fantasy novel by TJ Klune that tells the story of Linus Baker, a caseworker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. He is sent to Marsyas Island Orphanage to evaluate the welfare of the children living there, who are all considered dangerous. These include a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, and the Antichrist, among others. Throughout the novel, Linus learns about family, acceptance, and love through his interactions with the children and their caretaker, Arthur Parnassus. Who is the author of The House in the Cerulean Sea? The House in the Cerulean Sea was written by TJ Klune, an American author known for writing LGBTQ+ and fantasy literature. Klune has penned several other books, including "The Green Creek" series and "The Extraordinaries" series. Is The House in the Cerulean Sea suitable for all ages? While The House in the Cerulean Sea is often appreciated for its heartwarming narrative and message, it is targeted primarily towards an adult audience due to its themes and the complexity of certain issues it addresses. However, it is also considered suitable for young adults, who may find the story meaningful and engaging. Are there any sequels or related books? As of the knowledge cutoff date, The House in the Cerulean Sea is a standalone novel with no sequels. However, TJ Klune has written other books that, while not directly related, offer similar themes of found family, acceptance, and love. Is there any romance in the book? Yes, there is a romance subplot within The House in the Cerulean Sea. The blossoming relationship is portrayed in a subtle and tender manner, contributing to the overall narrative without overpowering the central themes of family and acceptance. Does the story contain any triggers or sensitive content? The House in the Cerulean Sea deals with issues like prejudice, discrimination, and the mistreatment of children, particularly those who are different in a fantastical sense. It is written with sensitivity and care, but readers who are sensitive to these topics may want to approach with caution. Can The House in the Cerulean Sea be classified as a young adult book? Though The House in the Cerulean Sea features elements often found in young adult literature, such as coming-of-age themes and fantastical elements, it is not specifically classified as a young adult book. The novel targets adults but is accessible to and can be enjoyed by young adult readers as well. In conclusion, "The House in the Cerulean Sea" by TJ Klune is a standout novel that resonates with readers searching for a heartwarming escape into a world brimming with charm and whimsy. With its masterful blend of fantasy and reality, Klune's tale becomes a beacon of hope, promoting themes of acceptance, understanding, and love. This enchanting story not only sweeps you into an extraordinary world inhabited by delightful magical beings, but it also offers profound insights into the human condition and the beauty of found families. As our empathetic protagonist Linus learns to challenge his

preconceptions and open his heart to the impossible, readers are reminded of the transformative power of compassion and the importance of advocating for those who cannot fight for themselves. TJ Klune's engaging prose and memorable characters make "The House in the Cerulean Sea" a valuable addition to any reader’s library. Whether you're long steeped in fantasy literature or seeking a meaningful story that will ignite a range of emotions, this novel is an inspired choice that delivers both entertainment and benefit—encouraging us to accept others and ourselves, to seek out magic in the mundane, and to acknowledge the extraordinary potentials hidden within every soul. With the accolades and acclaim it has gathered, "The House in the Cerulean Sea" is more than just a book; it's an experience that lingers, a conversation-starter, and a bold statement on the need for inclusivity in our societies. A must-read for anyone eager to be transported to a place of joy, wonder, and acceptance, it's a tale that will continue to enchant and educate readers for years to come. Other The House in the Cerulean Sea buying options

[acebedrawing]

*Somewhere Beyond the Sea* out of context meme: The garden scene~

The fathers proceeded to sip their tea☕️

[readingforsanity]

The House in the Cerulean Sea | TJ Klune | Published 2020 | *SPOILERS*

A magical island. A dangerous task. A burning secret.

Linus Baker leads a quiet, solitary life. At forty, he lives in a tiny house with a devious cat and his old records. As a Case Worker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, he spends his days overseeing the well-being of children in government-sanctioned orphanages.

When Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management he's given a curious and highly classified assignment: travel to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous children reside: a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentified green blob, a were-Pomeranian and the Antichrist. Linus must set aside his fears and determine whether or not they're likely to bring about the end of days.

But the children aren't the only secret the island keeps. Their caretaker is the charming and enigmatic Arthur Parnassus, who will do anything to keep his wards safe. As Arthur and Linus grow closer, long-held secrets are exposed, and Linus must make a choice: destroy a home or watch the world burn.

An enchanting story, masterfully told, The House in the Cerulean Sea is about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place - and realizes that family is yours.

Linus Baker is an ordinary man working an extraordinary job. He is a caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. These children, deemed strange and unusual by ordinary people, are kept in orphanges or schools until they hit adulthood, where they would then be registered with the Department in Charge of Magical Adults, where they can be monitored in everything they do, everyday.

When Extremely Upper Management requests Linus for a special assignment, he begins to question what their motives are. He is told that he would spend a month on the island of Marsyas, where an level four orphanage is being run by a man named Arthur Parnassus. In his tutelage are six magical youth. Linus is given their files on what is known of them.

There is Talia, a garden Gnome who is 246 years old. She is considered strange as Gnomes are typically male and not female. She keeps a wonderful garden on the property surrounding the orphanage, and despite her hardened demeanor is actually quite a joy to be around. There is Theodore, a wyvern, one of the few left of his kind, who keeps a hoard of treasures that he finds or takes, usually in the turret of the orphanage where he sleeps, or under the couch. He only lets the most trusted of people see it. Next we have Phee, a young forest sprite who remained next to her dead mother who had starved to death until she was rescued and brought to the orphanage. With the help of an island sprite, she has been able to control her powers, which for someone so young is rumored to be quite strong, something also unheard of and quite feared. There is Sal, a young broken boy, the oldest of the lot at 13, but who had been through so much. Within the last few months, he had been shipped to several different orphanges, and the more times this occurred, the less he felt like he was being accepted and at home where he was. His magical being is a Pomeranian, which he turns into when he is scared or angry, and after being struck by the master of his last orphange, was sent to the island, where he feels a bit more accepted but is still scared to come out of his shell. There is Chauncey, whose magical being isn't quite known or understood, but he resembles an octopus. His greatest desire in life is to become a bellhop and help people, and he does a wonderful job practicing with others in the orphanage as well as with Linus upon his arrival. And lastly, and quite honestly the biggest shock for Linus, is Lucy, short for Lucifer. He is titled as being the Antichrist - his mother deceased and his father is the devil himself. He is a 6 year old boy struggling with many emotions, and isn't quite sure how to handle the nightmares that occur, but with Arthur's help, these nightmares have become few and far between.

When Linus arrives on the island, he is determined to get to know the children in an unbiased way, as well as Arthur. He is unsure of Arthur's past, as his file had been suspiciously lacking in information. But, Linus begins to get to know the children, and Arthur, and his time on the island begins to open his once closed-off mind to the wonders of each of the kids.

During the week, he observes them during their schooling and personal time. He is invited to see their rooms and spaces that are theirs, and with a little determination, he earns the trust of Sal, who was once terrified that he had been there to send him away once again.

As the month goes on, Linus finds himself opening up more and more. And to his surprise, he also learns that Arthur is a magical being: a Phoenix, the last of his kind. Linus is absolutely floored by Arthur's beauty and their flirting becomes stronger and stronger. And through perserverance and Linus's help, Arthur is able to take the kids into the village where they are despised so much.

But, at last, Linus's time with with the children and Arthur has come to an end. Zoe, the island sprite, is devastated at Linus's choice to leave, and while Linus himself is hesitant to do so, he knows that the orphanage relies on his final report findings.

When he returns back to his home and his regular life, Linus feels lost. He explains to Extremely Upper Management that the orphanage should remain open, and that they should remain with Arthur, who has become a father to these children who have otherwise been burned by the government.

After weeks of hearing nothing, Linus learns that they had agreed to keep the orphanage open, and with that, Linus packs up his desk and quits his job, determined to return to the island, which he does, where he is accepted with open arms. He and Arthur begin a relationship, and everything is fine. It is when the mayor of the village comes to the island with a request to take in a new, undocumented youth, whom is a Yeti named David, that we learn that Arthur and Linus have decided to put in a petition to adopt the six children in their care together, and that Linus has officially moved into the home with the family he now loves so much. It is also alluded that he and Arthur will get married, and they can live their happy lives in the Cerulean Sea.

[mywavesyourshore]

House in the Cerulean Sea

Personally, I'm not fond of fantasy novels, keeping tabs on the intricate web of magical creatures and complex universes can get challenging (I had to look up fan-art for this book more than once, thankfully the art has been amazing). Yet The House in the Cerulean Sea is not your typical fictional conquest of mythical beasts, or a dark twisted journey to a bewitching forest, rather a wonderful and lighthearted story on prejudices, and a reminder to us all, that there's more to life on earth than the naked eye.

"The House in the Cerulean Sea" follows Linus Baker, a quiet and reserved caseworker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth (DICOMY). Linus' life takes an unexpected turn when he is tasked with investigating a group of orphans with magical powers, residing at the mysterious Marsyas Island. Along the way, he learns about the true meaning of family, friendship, and finding happiness in unexpected places.

One of the things that set this book apart is its ability to seamlessly blend the fantastical with the mundane, creating a world that feels both familiar and magical at the same time.

The characters are the true stars of the show, each one unique and lovable in their own way. From the gentle and kind Arthur Parnassus, the caretaker of the orphanage, to the mischievous and adorable children who call it home. The most enjoyable parts of the book is the children bantering and rambunctious daily activities.

While the story may seem light-hearted at first glance, it also has a powerful message about the importance of embracing diversity and fighting against discrimination. The story's overall set up and the juxtaposition of the character's lives creates wonderful friction for such conversation. Arthur and his children on a whimsical island, Linus in a grim corporate desk-job, between the ever-raining city and the sun-filled island . Arthur and Linus both have their reasons to stay within their respective world, is something I relate to. As a (practicing) adult, I know what regulations are made for, but color it with obsession and rules become limitation, cover our eyes from the wonderful thing humans can make. That's why most of us will slip right into misconceptions and stereotypes in order to avoid the discomfort of confronting our own ignorance. We blind ourselves, just because we can't handle how much of our kind we haven't understand. The House in the Cerulean Sea raises a tough but important question about our tendency to categorize people (and worse, segregated them) just to make it easier to understand the world.

What made this whole adventure less fulfilling, is the heavy handed approach and repetitious preaching. The moral lessons that TJ Klune tried to get through aren ill-intention by any means, but being too one-the-nose can feel forceful (especially when I already got the point made halfway through the book). With a bit more restraint and smarter exposition, this book could have been an absolute modern day classic.

Delightfully goofy at times, charming and kindhearted at others, The House in the Cerulean Sea is a beautiful little gem, a whimsical adventure with family at its heart. TJ Klune managed to tell an enchanting tale of love and acceptance touching on important issues, all the while bringing joy and laughter. I'm glad, for once, fantasy novels can just be about confronting our fears and not slaying the head off a dragon.

Final Rating: B+

__________________________________________________________

(Spoilers ahead)

What I like The chemistry between Arthur and Linus (goals tbh), their arguments give off old-married couple vibes.

My favorite characters Chauncey, an amorphous blob who aspires to be a bellhop. Chauncey's simple dream remind an overachiever like me that sometimes its best to not overthink your goals in life.

What put me off towards the end the writing was a little bit over-sentimental, and felt like the narration was rushing to get to a conclusion.

It would be better if the book had discussed more on both of Arthur and Linus's past and backstories, I'm curious to know more on why they have come to nourish a love for protecting children. Also, while the children are fun, the book didn't spend time on the world-building. A sequel could benefit this, should we get to know more about the magical creatures and the world they inhabit

Would I read it again? Yes, people described it as a warm hug. And as every hugs in the world go, you always need it most during

This is perfect for times when you need something warmth and uplifting, not recommended for people who don't believe in magic (seriously what's wrong with you)